Whether exploring dark matter in the far reaches of space or driving a miniscule car in France’s Nanocar Grand Prix, scientists in the departments of physics and chemistry push boundaries to explore what the naked eye can’t see.
Robert Ackley (BS ’41) bequeathed more than $6 million to The Ohio University Foundation to leave a legacy at OHIO—benefiting students, faculty, and programs in these departments.
“This gift will help us provide a first-rate education to our students,” said Steve Bergmeier, chair of the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry. “We will use these funds for a variety of purposes including matching funds for external equipment grants, visiting speakers, and the development of new laboratory and course materials. This gift will provide tremendous flexibility for the department to explore new directions in teaching and research. To Mr. Ackley we would say that we greatly appreciate your vote of confidence as we continue to educate and inspire the next generation of students.”
The estate gift represents the largest-ever single contribution to either of the two departments—it’s also an act of faith, a belief in the future of the departments that launched Ackley’s successful career in neutron science and nuclear energy research. A future Ackley could imagine in his mind, but—like so much in physics and chemistry—will never see with his eyes.
“The Department of Physics & Astronomy is extremely grateful for all donations that we receive,” said David Ingram, department chair. “The gift from the estate of Robert Ackley … will make a difference to the educational experience of many students at Ohio University.”
