Disciplines
Oral History
Abstract
Dr. Robert S., Ph.D., graduated from Fordham honors with his Bachelor’s of Science in 1960 and from Princeton with his Doctorate in 1964. Both degrees were in chemistry, and Dr. Robert went on to have an astounding career in the field of engineering plastics. He initially served as a captain in the U.S. Army and transitioned to work in technical management at Honeywell, ITW, and Engelhard corporations. After retiring, he became increasingly active in consulting and board work at S.C. Johnson Corporation, R&D Council of New Jersey, the Association of Princeton Graduate Alumni, and the EPA Clean Air Act Advisory Council.
In the interview, Dr. Robert explores his experience as one of the few STEM majors in the Fordham honors program. He feels that the philosophical, literary, and historical focuses of the program gave him a uniquely holistic education compared to his chemistry degree alone. He identifies Father Quentin Lauer, director of the junior year honors philosophy seminar, and Father Schubert, his thesis mentor, as the two most influential figures in his education. Dr. Robert completed his senior thesis in electron emission microscopy, and Father Schubert subsequently wrote him a strong recommendation letter for Princeton, his doctoral alma mater.
Robert’s interview was conducted by Kevin McKenna (FCRH 2007), Christine Barcelona (FCRH 2012), and Kevin Crenny (FCRH 2011).
Recommended Citation
FCRH Honors Program. "Interview with Robert S.," FCRH Honors Program Oral History Project, Fordham University, 2025. https://research.library.fordham.edu/honorsprogram_fcrh_oral_history/
