Making leaders in materials science
An alum recognizes his lifelong connection to U-M by supporting students
Sometimes, a little help enables huge opportunities. Arden Bement Jr. (PhD MSE ‘63) learned that firsthand after his employer offered to pay his way through college.
Bement started working at the Climax Molybdenum Mine in Colorado after high school, but his supervisor encouraged him to continue his education at the Colorado School of Mines. He offered to pay for Bement’s first semester; if he could finish it, he wouldn’t owe a dime.
Bement not only kept his end of the bargain, but surpassed all expectations. After graduating with a degree in metallurgy from Mines in 1954, he earned a PhD in materials science and engineering from U-M in 1963, with a specialty in metallurgical engineering. He also holds a master’s degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Idaho.
After working for years as a research scientist at General Electric, MIT, DARPA and others, he was elected into the National Academy of Engineering in 1983 for discoveries related to how radiation damages metals in nuclear reactors, and for developing advanced materials concepts for defense applications.
He also served as the director of several high-profile institutions, including the National Science Foundation from 2004 to 2010. Now, Bement is giving back to make sure others have the same opportunities he did.
“Some of the best minds aren’t necessarily able to pay tuition,” he said. “It’s vitally important that there is some source of support.”
Each year since 2020, one undergraduate student has received a scholarship for their materials science and engineering education, thanks to his gift.
“Bement’s gift opens the benefits of a materials science and engineering degree to all prospective students, and in doing so, fosters a materials science community that reflects our state and nation,” said Elizabeth Holm, the Richard F. and Eleanor A. Towner Professor of Engineering and chair of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering.
Keeping materials science at U-M strong is personal for Bement. His father earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from U-M in 1931, and his mother graduated from a three-year nursing program at U-M in 1930. After leaving the university, he continued to maintain relationships in Michigan’s academic community.
“The quality of the education and the impact the graduates are making in the field of materials research and in industry are what have kept me engaged,” Bement said. “I wanted to recognize that and my degree with my contribution.”