Florida Southern College Appoints Dr. Deborah Bromfield Lee as Endowed Chair in Natural Sciences

Florida Southern College Strengthens Natural Sciences with New Endowed Chair Appointment

Florida Southern College announces the appointment of Dr. Deborah Bromfield Lee as the Jessie Ball duPont Endowed Chair in the Natural Sciences, a move that underscores the institution's commitment to advancing research and education in this crucial field. Dr. Bromfield Lee, who has been a faculty member since 2012, currently serves as both the Department Chair and Director of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). Her appointment is a significant recognition of her contributions to green chemistry and chemical education, areas where she has published extensively in reputable journals such as Green Chemistry Letters and the Journal of Chemical Education.

In her role as the Jessie Ball duPont Endowed Chair, Dr. Bromfield Lee aims to enhance the college's focus on natural sciences, aligning with its mission to create a positive societal impact. Dr. Tracey Tedder, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Florida Southern College, commends Dr. Bromfield Lee's exceptional work in research, teaching, and community service. Her leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in furthering the college's agenda in sustainability and innovative scientific education, particularly through her involvement with Beyond Benign, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting green chemistry education globally.

Dr. Bromfield Lee expresses her gratitude for the honor, viewing it as a recognition of her dedication to education, scholarship, and community service. The Jessie Ball duPont Chair, established in 1980 and funded by the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, aims to expand opportunities and foster inclusive environments in education. This appointment not only highlights Dr. Bromfield Lee’s personal achievements but also emphasizes Florida Southern College's commitment to excellence in the natural sciences, reinforcing its position as a leader in promoting sustainable practices and impactful educational experiences.

In addition to her academic credentials, which include a bachelor's and master's degree in chemistry from the University of South Florida, Dr. Bromfield Lee's leadership is anticipated to inspire both students and faculty, fostering a culture of innovation in scientific inquiry. Her appointment is a pivotal moment for Florida Southern College, reinforcing its role in addressing contemporary challenges through advancements in science education.

The Jessie Ball duPont Endowed Chair serves as a vital resource in enhancing the college's strategic initiatives in the natural sciences, ensuring that Florida Southern College remains at the forefront of educational excellence and societal contributions in an increasingly complex world.