Marcy Towns honored with Iota Sigma Pi’s highest award for women in chemistry
2025-10-16
Photo by Alisha Willett, Purdue College of Science
Marcy Towns, Bodner-Honig Professor in Purdue University’s James Tarpo Jr. and Margaret Tarpo Department of Chemistry, has been named the 2026 National Honorary Member of Iota Sigma Pi. Given only once every three years, it’s the highest recognition from Iota Sigma Pi, a national honor society for women in chemistry that’s been supporting and celebrating women in the field for over a century. The award highlights women who have made significant contributions to chemistry or a related field. For Towns, who has long championed education, mentorship, and leadership in science, it’s a full-circle moment.
“To be honored by a group that has provided community and belonging for women in chemistry for over 100 years is amazing,” said Towns, who earned both her M.S. and Ph.D. from Purdue. “The group of women who have received this award are highly accomplished, and I am very grateful to join this engaged and impactful group.”
Iota Sigma Pi has deep roots in Towns’ journey. As a graduate student, she was actively involved in the organization at a time when there were far fewer women in Purdue’s chemistry program. “It gave me a community and a sense of belonging outside of my research group,” she reflected. “Being connected to other women pursuing a doctorate was very energizing and inspiring.” That early support system helped shape her path and she’s continued to carry forward the values of connection, encouragement, and leadership.
Founded in 1902, Iota Sigma Pi is a national honor society for women in chemistry dedicated to promoting interest in the field, supporting academic and professional growth, and recognizing outstanding achievement. With over 11,000 members and 46 local chapters, the organization has played a vital role in advancing women chemists for more than a century. Its highest award, National Honorary Member, has been given to only a select group of women, including four Nobel Laureates, making it one of the most distinguished honors in the field.
Now serving as Associate Dean for Leadership Excellence in Purdue’s College of Science, Towns encourages students, especially women in chemistry, to seek out supportive networks like Iota Sigma Pi. “Connecting to others who share your journey and priorities can provide a community that inspires and encourages you personally and professionally,” she said. “Your network can open doors, build confidence, and help you grow into leadership.”
Towns remains a national leader in chemistry education and mentorship. Her numerous accolades include the 2017 American Chemical Society (ACS) Award for Achievement in Research for the Teaching and Learning of Chemistry, the 2017 James Flack Norris Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Teaching of Chemistry from the Northeast Section of the ACS, and the 2019 Nyholm Prize in Education from the Royal Society of Chemistry. In 2021, she was named an IUPAC Distinguished Woman of Chemistry. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2019), the American Chemical Society (2012), and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2009).
About Purdue Chemistry
The James Tarpo Jr. and Margaret Tarpo Department of Chemistry is internationally acclaimed for its excellence in chemical education and innovation, boasting two Nobel laureates in organic chemistry, the #1 ranked analytical chemistry program, and a highly successful drug discovery initiative that has generated hundreds of millions of dollars in royalties. Learn more about chem.purdue.edu.
Written by: Alison Harmeson, senior communications specialist for the Purdue University College of Science
Contributors: Marcy Towns, Bodner-Honig Professor in Department of Chemistry
Photo by: Alisha Willett, communications specialist for the Purdue University College of Science