Distinguished Alumni Award

2025-04-18

Richard Wien was presented a Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Science in April. He earned an undergraduate degree in chemistry in 1967.

Dr. Wien retired as Manager of Strategic Business Development after a distinguished 34-year career at Eastman Kodak. During his tenure, he was recognized with both a technical EMMY and an OSCAR, reflecting his contributions to the field of technology and innovation.

His connection to Purdue began in high school when he worked on a science project in the Chemistry Department, later continuing with undergraduate research. This led to an NSF Graduate Fellowship, further cementing his lifelong relationship with Purdue.

Dr. Wien holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Purdue and a Ph.D. from Stanford. Currently, Dr. Wien is actively engaged in various educational and community initiatives. He serves on the boards of the Pittsford Education Foundation, Pittsford Food Cupboard, and The First Baptist Church of Rochester.

He is also a member of the Purdue JMHC Dean’s Advisory Board and has been a mentor to both undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Wien was named a Hero of Chemistry by the American Chemical Society in 1996 and received the NASA Public Service Medal in 1995.

Alongside his professional work, Dr. and Mrs. Wien have made significant contributions to academia, establishing a faculty position currently held by Dr. Mei, as well as sponsoring a collaboration room in Purdue’s new Data Science building. Additionally, Dr. Wien serves on the boards of two medical device startup companies.

Photo caption: Dr. Richard Wien is presented a Distinguished Alumni Award by Purdue University College of Science Dean Lucy Flesch