2009
Anne J. Neilson, Honorary Degree Recipient
Anne J. Neilson 1949, Taste Chemist at Arthur D. Little, Inc., is presented the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science.
Read the citation for her degree below:
Good taste may be subjective, but superior judgment is undeniable. Anne Neilson, you possess that rare ability to pull together a recipe for success that nourishes many.
You began your career at Arthur D. Little, Inc., as a taste tester, advancing to chemist and later, senior chemist. In your more than 40 years with the company, you found ways to improve the taste of products as diverse as chewing gum, children’s tranquilizers and whiskey. Though you officially retired in 1991, you continue to contribute your expertise as an independent consultant for the company.
As one of the leaders in the field of taste chemistry, you understand that scientific achievement begins with outstanding educational opportunities. Through more than two decades of service as a Wheaton trustee, and now as a trustee emerita, you have done much to ensure that students find the ingredients necessary for educational success.
Your concern for Wheaton, and your generosity, established two endowed funds at the college: The Anne J. Neilson ’49 Endowed Professorship in the Sciences and the Anne J. Neilson ’49 Fund for the Chemical Sciences. Your dedication to this school is reflected in many other ways around campus, from the Neilson Classroom in the Haas Athletic Center to the Anne J. Neilson ’49 Project Scholarship Fund.
You once called Wheaton your “adopted family.” We are honored by the association. It is with the utmost admiration and appreciation that we bestow upon you the degree: Honorary Doctor of Science.