University Times

Hurd W. Safford, professor emeritus of chemistry, died on Sept. 7, 1998, after an extended illness. He was 83. Safford graduated with a B.S. in ceramics engineering from Alfred University in 1936. He later entered Pitt's graduate chemistry program in order to do research with noted glass chemistry expert (and department chair), Alexander Silverman.

Following the award of his Ph.D. in 1941, Safford became an instructor in the chemistry department, assisting in the chemistry education of army officers who were preparing for service in World War II.

He became a full professor in 1968. In 1985, Safford was appointed professor emeritus.

During his 44-year career as a member of the faculty, Safford made substantial contributions to the chemistry department. For over 20 years he served as coordinator of the undergraduate program. In this capacity he personally interviewed all new chemistry majors, welcomed them, and then helped them plot their progress in the chemistry program. Even after his retirement, Safford continued to serve as a liaison between the department and undergraduate majors.

Safford also conducted research in electroanalytical chemistry and authored a number of papers on polarography and coulometry. In 1953 he gave the first description of an amperometric method for the microdetermination of fluorine in organic compounds. Safford also supervised 17 doctoral students.

Safford's contribution to undergraduate chemistry education at the University was recognized in 1985 with the creation of the Hurd W. Safford Award for Graduate Teaching Excellence. Each year as many as seven graduate students are recognized for their demonstrated excellence in teaching.

Among the first recipients of the award was George Bandik, now a senior lecturer in chemistry and assistant dean in the College of Arts and Sciences. Bandik says of Safford, "His concern and dedication to our undergraduates was exemplary. I always have considered him in high regard and still consider him to be my role model." The family requests that memorial contributions be directed to the Safford Award for Graduate Teaching Excellence, in care of the chemistry department.