Rensselaer’s polymer research began through the dedication of faculty such as Bill Rauscher, who spent more than 30 years here as student, mentor, and colleague. Following his death in 1972, friends and faculty established the William H. Rauscher Lectureships to honor his devotion to both the program and his areas of special interest. Another endowed lecture honors the accomplishments of Charles E. Reed, a pioneer in the silicone industry and long-time GE researcher and executive.