Welcome Message from the Chair, Sarah Reisman
As the academic year draws to a close, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for everything we have accomplished together this quarter. The transition from spring to summer always offers a moment of reflection—on our collective achievements, individual milestones, and the enduring spirit of collaboration that defines our division.
This month, we celebrated Caltech’s 131st Commencement—always a joyous and meaningful occasion. It was a privilege to watch our graduating students walk across the stage, marking the culmination of years of hard work, curiosity, and perseverance. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our graduating undergraduates, master’s students, and Ph.D. candidates. Read on to learn more about what's next for a few of our graduates.
Special recognition goes to our student award recipients across the division. From excellence in research to outstanding teaching assistantship and service, these honors reflect the depth and breadth of talent within CCE.
This quarter has also been remarkable for our faculty. Several colleagues received prestigious national awards and honors, highlighting both their innovative research and leadership in their fields. A few of these honors include Garnet Chan and Shu-ou Shan on their election to the National Academy of Sciences, and Zhen-Gang Wang on his election to the National Academy of Engineers.
Behind the scenes, our staff have been the backbone of CCE's success. From supporting complex lab operations to mentoring students and ensuring the smooth day-to-day functioning of the division, their efforts often go unseen—but never unappreciated. Here we highlight the Staff Service Awards, and notably, the Thomas W. Schmitt Prize which was awarded to Sabine Brinkmann-Chen, lab manager for the Arnold Group.
We are also pleased to acknowledge recipients of this year’s James LuValle Award, which honor those who are working to make CCE more inclusive, supportive, and equitable for all.
We’ve had a vibrant series of division events this past quarter—from named lectures to DiscoTech with more to come. Please see the CCE event calendar for our list of upcoming events.
Finally, with great sorrow, we mark the passing of Professor Sunney Chan, a cherished member of our emeritus faculty. Professor Chan’s legacy at Caltech spans decades of exceptional scientific contributions and mentoring. He will be missed dearly.
In closing, I want to thank each of you for your continued support of CCE and for being an essential part of this community. I look forward to all that we will build together in the seasons to come.
Let me know your thoughts on this newsletter at cce@caltech.edu.
