2024 Fundraiser and Philanthropist of the Year: Truly Doing a World of Good
At the 18th Annual Donor Recognition Dinner, held during the 2024 AIChE® Annual Meeting, the AIChE Foundation recognized Billy Bardin as Fundraiser of the Year and Kathy Chen as Philanthropist of the Year for their significant contributions in advancing the future of chemical engineering. In a year dominated by election campaigns, their efforts were instrumental in helping the Foundation break through the clutter to achieve our fundraising goals.
Thank you to Billy, the 2024 Fundraiser of the Year…and to Kathy, the 2024 Philanthropist of the Year. Your imagination for what could be, becomes achievable with passion and dedication.” - Jennifer Sinclair Curtis, Chair AIChE Foundation
Fundraiser of the Year: Billy Bardin
Billy Bardin, Global Climate Transition Director at Dow, was honored as Fundraiser of the Year for his innovative and strategic leadership. Billy’s enthusiasm and dedication led the AIChE Board of Directors to achieve their first-ever 100% participation in leadership giving. Additionally, he spearheaded a new strategy for the CRE Division Endowment, establishing Travel Awards named in tribute to key mentors. This initiative inspired alumni and colleagues to give in honor of figures such as Professor Robert Davis and Professor Umit Ozkan, surpassing initial fundraising expectations and laying a strong foundation for future initiatives.
Billy was also a key contributor to the AIChE Foundation’s Presidents’ Challenge. As Past President, he led by example through personal financial contributions and peer-to-peer outreach. Through his dedicated efforts, Billy has attracted new donors and re-engaged past supporters, showcasing how effective leadership can inspire others to support AIChE’s mission.
Philanthropist of the Year: Kathy Chen
Kathy Chen was recognized as Philanthropist of the Year for her heartfelt dedication to preserving the legacy of her late husband, John C. Chen. The John C. Chen Endowment for Young Professional Leadership ensures that early-career AIChE members benefit from leadership development opportunities through the PEAK Leadership Training Program.
Kathy’s generous contributions not only foster the professional growth of young engineers but also provide support for online training and travel to the AIChE Annual Meeting, enriching their development in the field. Her philanthropy honors John Chen’s enduring legacy as AIChE President in 2006 and his commitment to mentoring the next generation. By sustaining John’s legacy, Kathy empowers AIChE to cultivate the next wave of chemical engineering leaders.
Celebrating Transformative Impact
Together, Billy Bardin and Kathy Chen have made transformative contributions to our mission of doing a world of good. Their leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment embody the spirit of giving back, inspiring the entire AIChE community. By investing in the next generation and supporting critical initiatives, they ensure a bright and impactful future for chemical engineering.
Presidents Unite: The AIChE Presidents' Challenge to Build a Brighter ...
The AIChE Foundation has launched the Presidents' Challenge, a unique fundraising effort led by current, past, and incoming AIChE presidents to support the Doing a World of Good campaign. Inspired by the upcoming presidential election and national events, the challenge invites former AIChE leaders to make a lasting impact through personal commitments and peer-to-peer outreach.
Today’s Chen Scholarship Winners are Tomorrow’s Versatile Leaders
Committed to supporting and mentoring the next generation, Dr. John C. Chen's impact on young chemical engineers continues thanks to his wife, Kathy who launched the Chen Endowment for Young Professional Leadership. In only a few years, twelve early career professionals are complementing their technical skills with leadership training, expanding their networks and creating a community where they will achieve their career goals.