An Opportunity to Memorialize Dr. Jim Byrd

Stanislaus State is deeply saddened by the recent loss of Dr. Jim Byrd, emeritus professor of chemistry and a Stan State faculty member for 35 years.

Dr. Byrd joined the Chemistry Department faculty in 1974 and taught until retiring in 2009. As an Analytic and Inorganic Chemistry professor with a specialization in kinetics, his long and distinguished career included serving as department chair for 17 years (1988-2005) and being honored as the 1995 Stanislaus State Outstanding Professor. (Above photo is from 1995.)

Dr. Byrd performed chemistry "magic" shows for decades at Central Valley public schools, sharing his love of learning and science. In addition, his scholarly research was published in national and international journals. He was also recognized for his work in training K-12 teachers and improving science education.

To honor Dr. Byrd’s legacy, the family has established the Dr. James E. Byrd Memorial Scholarship to support chemistry majors. A memorial gift will be a lasting tribute to Dr. Byrd and will be meaningful to the scholarship recipients who will continue to benefit from Dr. Byrd's passion for learning. 

Dr. Byrd passed away on October 28, 2020 at the age of 78 from complications from Alzheimer’s and diabetes.

If you prefer to send a check, please mail it to: