Degree(s): Physics

Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University

Graduate Institution: University of Michigan

Photo Credit: Claudia Marcelloni de Oliveira (via American Physical Society)

Dr. Homer Neal was a particle physicist and the first Black president of the American Physical Society, of which he was also a Fellow. He also served in distinguished faculty and leadership positions at Indiana University, the University of Michigan, and Stony Brook University. Dr. Neal was also heavily involved in science policy and served with organizations such as the National Science Foundation, U.S. National Science Board, and the Lounsbery Foundation. His work with U.S. National Science Board included chairing the committee that produced the first comprehensive report on undergraduate science education. This report was directly responsible for the still-thriving Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) and Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) programs, which are offered at colleges and universities across the country each year.

Fun Fact: Dr. Neal was also on the Council for the Smithsonian Museum of African American History in Washington, D.C.