Sam Wait arrived at the Troy campus in 1949 as a freshman, following his graduation from Nott Terrace High School in Schenectady. Since the age of 12, he had been interested in chemistry. It was an interest - that would become a lifelong passion. In 1956 Wait earned his doctoral degree in Chemistry, and spent about 5 years away from RPI. Wait was named a full professor in 1971 and Associate Dean in 1974, and served as Acting Dean three different times, all while continuing research begun years earlier. Wait notes the evolution of the computer and the ability to synthesize drugs as two of the most significant advances in his lifetime, as well as two teachers he credits with helping shape his career. Wait encourages maximum attention toward educating more individuals to become teachers. At age 77, Sam Wait decided it was time - after six decades on the RPI campus - to take a break... Although officially retired, Wait still plans to maintain an office "on-campus" - helping out whenever and wherever he's needed. RPI President Shirley Jackson credits Wait with having mentored hundreds of students and young faculty members over the years.