According to the dictionary, the American English loanword, “mensch,” which derives from the German and its Yiddish cognate, refers to someone who possesses rare qualities that one would want in an admired, trusted friend, or colleague, or, indeed, oneself. Being called a mensch is the highest compliment for someone whose life exemplifies dignity, responsibility, and a sense of what is right. Eli Pearce (1929-2015) was a mensch at its highest level, and his memory is a blessing for us all. He was a driving force toward the establishment of the ACS Silver Circle, which evolved into the Senior Chemists Task Force, and then into the Senior Chemists Committee (SCC). He also contributed greatly to the development of the idea to use science diplomacy as a bridge to peace in the embattled Middle East. As ACS President in 2002, Eli Pearce helped transform the dream of the Malta Conferences (Frontiers of Science: Innovation, Research, and Education) into a reality.

Remembering Eli Pearce, a mensch for all seasons

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.