Honorary Degrees of Retiring Faculty
Nai Lin Chang, Associate Professor of Engineering, The Institute of Paper Chemistry, 1987 (he did not attend the ceremony)
"Nai Lin Chang, it has been just 30 years since you literally walked across China to freedom in America and a new life. Graduation from Colombia University with a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering was the first major milestone in this new life. The second came in 1963 when you joined The Institute of Paper Chemistry as a Research Aid; the third, when you were appointed to the faculty just three years later.
Rather than regarding cultural differences as a barrier, you sought to inculcate in your children and in your students the best of both cultures. More than a mentor, you were also a friend to your students, sharing with them your rich and broad heritage and personal experiences. You gave unselfishly of your time, your talents, and your energy to help them grow in science and in life. Many will cherish and profit from these experiences for a lifetime.
You have always been highly regarded as a meticulous scientist and experimentalist. Indeed, papers form your early work on fiber mat compressibility and wet pressing remain the cardinal references in this area after almost 20 years. Now, in retirement, you have embarked on a new scientific endeavor: an on-line, real time, experimental study of the aerodynamic behavior of small, white, dimpled spheroids. We wish you every success in this important venture.
By the authority vested in me, I now confer upon you the degree of Master of Science, ad eundem, and admit you to its rights, its privileges, and its obligations."