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MCC Daily Tribune

Barry Sanderson, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry

The College family mourns the loss of Professor Emeritus of Chemistry Barry Sanderson. Professor Emeritus Sanderson passed away in September. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Doyne; children Megan, Cameron and Cooper Sanderson and Allison and Sam Osborn; mothers of his children Kitty Forbush and Christina Laurens; and his grandchildren.

Professor Emeritus Sanderson earned his bachelor of science degree in chemistry from the University of Florida (Gainesville, Fla.). He pursued advanced studies in physical chemistry at SUNY Buffalo.

After teaching briefly at Canisius College, Professor Emeritus Sanderson joined MCC in 1973 as an adjunct faculty member in MCC's Chemistry/Geosciences Department. He achieved the rank of assistant professor in 1979, associate professor in 1985 and professor in 1992. In 2002, he received the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award for integrating computers into MCC's general chemistry lecture and laboratory curriculum. Regarded among MCC's finest classroom teachers, he also served as advisor to the Chemistry Club. He was admired for his ability to advise students and explain difficult concepts in a way that students could grasp.

Professor Emeritus Sanderson was a recognized leader within the Chemistry/Geosciences Department. In addition to serving as an adjunct coordinator, he chaired the department's Retention, Tenure, and Promotion Committee. He supported corporate service assignments such as the Eastman Kodak Chemical Technology Training Program and assisted in college recruitment efforts.

He was a member of the American Physical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers. He also served on various committees and on the board of the Cobblestone School in Rochester.

After teaching at the college for 29 years, he retired in 2002.

Professor Emeritus Sanderson's obituary is available online. He will be deeply missed.

Katherine Douglas
Office of the President
10/06/2020