Catherine MacGowan

Prof. MacGowan joined Georgia Southern University in 1993 and retired in 2024.

— Biography from the 2024 Fall Commencement program —

Dr. MacGowan earned a BS in Biochemistry (1975) from the University of Michigan, an MS in Chemistry from the University of Colorado (1987) and a Ph.D. (1997) in Science Education from the University of Akron. After earning her BS in Biochemistry, Dr. MacGowan was an Analytical Chemist for the Ford Motor Company from 1976-1982. After finishing her master’s degree, Dr. MacGowan was an Instructor at Wayne General and Technical College, Walsh College, University of Akron, and the College of Wooster (all in Ohio). In 1993, Dr. MacGowan joined the faculty at Armstrong State College and was promoted to Associate Professor in 1999. Primarily teaching Principles of Chemistry I & II, senior level Science Ethics, and core non-majors courses, Dr. MacGowan was beloved by her students. Dr. MacGowan was a student-centered faculty member and served as the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society advisor for over 25 years. Much of her scholarly work centered around student learning and success, which resulted in ten publications and numerous professional presentations throughout her tenure. Dr. MacGowan’s service to the department, university, and community is extensive. She used her expertise to support students and colleagues in a number of areas. Notable in her service were her efforts with the American Chemical Society (ACS). Dr. MacGowan served as Secretary/ Treasurer of the ACS’s Coastal Georgia Local Section for over 25 years. She was Treasurer for two southeastern regional meetings of the ACS, as well as a member of the Passer Education Committee for the ACS for 12 years. Dr. MacGowan’s teaching, service, and scholarly accomplishments at Georgia Southern University have been extremely impactful on her students as well as her colleagues. The summation of her work makes her recognition as Associate Professor Emeritus of Chemistry well deserved.*