Session: Successful Student Chapters:

The Tennessee Technological University (TTU) chapter of Student Members of ACS prides itself on a large number of events to inspire and teach people about chemistry, both on campus and in the community. The TTU chapter strives to be balanced in all aspects and plans activities throughout the year that help members become well-rounded chemistry professionals. With Covid-19 impacting traditional activities and events, the chapter shifted focus to incorporating more professional development and social events with an emphasis on self-care and creating meaningful relationships between chapter members. Service activities were still conducted while incorporating social distancing and university and CDC guidelines. The chapter also took this opportunity to partner with other organizations like the Nashville section of ACS, and other student chapters for NCW events including a Green Chemistry presentation and ACS webinar shared via Zoom. Chapter development continued with regular chapter meetings members could attend in person or virtually and with the annual sale of goggles and notebooks with the assistance of the department’s stockroom serving as the pick-up location for online orders. Spirit night fundraisers replaced traditional ways of generating income. Upon the cancellation of SERMACS the chapter decided to host a small poster session for members to provide the opportunity for student researchers to gain experience presenting their work to members of the department and community. Green chemistry was incorporated into as many events as possible. The chapter became creative in modifying events while maintaining momentum in serving members, the university, and community.

Rebecca Firth

Appearances