Events

Chemistry in Motion

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry facilitates numerous events to help expose our students to exciting research and academics in the world of chemistry.

Gladys S. Bayse Elements of Distinction Symposium

Since 2018, we have held the Biennial Elements of Distinction Symposium. Here we celebrate our top performing junior and senior students by presenting them the Elements of Distinction Scholarship awards in addition to hosting a seminar by an outside speaker. We also use this time to commemorate Dr. Gladys S. Bayse, the first chair of the department of chemistry and biochemistry.  Dr. Bayse was a professor at Spelman College for 39 years where she taught biochemistry and toxicology.

Years ago, three biochemistry majors each became recipients of an inaugural Gladys S. Bayse Memorial Academic Scholarship. The awards are based on outstanding service in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, demonstrated potential as researchers, a 3.0 overall GPA and a 3.2 GPA in chemistry.

Gabrielle Webb, C’2019, is working on a cancer biology research project through the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development at Clark Atlanta University. Gygeria Manuel, C’2020, is a research scholar participant in the Undergraduate Health Sciences Academy at Morehouse School of Medicine. Dominique Mosley, C’2020, is studying the effects of natural products on prostate cancer tumors at Spelman.

Webb, Manuel and Mosley are in the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program and active in the Chemistry Club. The late Gladys Bayse, Ph.D., (pictured) was a professor of biochemistry at Spelman. She spearheaded the effort to form a full-fledged chemistry and biochemistry department and was its first chair. The department celebrated its 40th anniversary in April.