The Summer Social 2026 was a smash hit, with more than 30 members and guests gathering to socialize, celebrate the 150th anniversary of the American Chemical Society, and enjoy an exciting presentation on explosive chemistry. The featured speaker was former section member Dr. Tyler Maxwell, who now works for Applied Research Associates (ARA) at Tyndall Air Force Base, where he studies explosives and supports research related to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) applications.
The Orlando Section of the American Chemical Society was also honored to recognize three of our senior members for their longstanding contributions to the chemical sciences and to the Society. Their brief biographies follow.
Dr. Rea 60-Year Member
Dr. Rea earned his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University and his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Princeton University, where his doctoral research focused on the helical flow of viscoelastic fluids. He went on to enjoy a distinguished 34-year career with DuPont, serving in research, manufacturing, and business leadership roles across a wide range of plastics, chemicals, and fiber products.
One of the first projects of his career involved preparing fluoropolymer membrane materials for fuel cells used in satellites, reflecting a career that combined innovation, engineering excellence, and real-world impact. During his time with DuPont, Dr. Rea worked at five locations across the United States and contributed to the success of one of the world’s leading science and engineering companies.
After retirement, he continued to pursue his many interests and remained engaged with the scientific community. His six decades of ACS membership reflect a lifelong commitment to chemistry, engineering, and professional excellence.
Dr. Lauterbach 60-Year Member
Dr. Lauterbach earned his B.S. in Chemistry, with Distinction, from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and both his M.S. and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from The Ohio State University. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has established himself as an internationally recognized expert in analytical chemistry, toxicology, tobacco science, and regulatory science.
His professional career has included leadership positions in industry, consulting, and government advisory service. He served as a Principal Scientist and Director within Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation, later founding Lauterbach & Associates, where he has continued to provide expertise in chemistry, toxicology, and regulatory affairs. His scientific contributions include four U.S. patents, 72 publications, nearly 200 professional presentations, and extensive service as a reviewer, advisor, and expert witness.
Dr. Lauterbach has also demonstrated remarkable dedication to ACS. He has served as Chair of both the Louisville and Middle Georgia Sections, Councilor, Program Chair for the Division of Small Chemical Businesses, and Consultant to the ACS Committee on Economic and Professional Affairs. His commitment to professional service has helped strengthen the chemical enterprise and support fellow chemists throughout his career.
Dr. Hampton 50-Year Member
Dr. Hampton earned his B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Florida and his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Texas Tech University. For more than four decades at the University of Central Florida, he has distinguished himself as an outstanding educator, researcher, mentor, and leader. His dedication to teaching has been recognized through numerous honors, including the ACS Outstanding 4-Year College Teacher Award, and he has secured more than $400,000 in teaching related grants. He has mentored countless students (BS, MSc and PhD) who have gone on to successful careers in science and engineering.
His research accomplishments are equally impressive. Dr. Hampton has secured more than $2.5 million in funding from organizations including NASA, the Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health and the department of education. His work in hydrogen storage materials, environmental remediation, and analytical instrumentation has resulted in more than 50 publications and over 100 scientific presentations. Through his collaborations with NASA and service at Kennedy Space Center (as a mechanical engineer), he has contributed to advances in materials science and energy technologies of national importance. Dr. Hampton has also provided an exceptional administrative leadership at UCF as the director of interdisciplinary studies and chair of chemistry.
For many of us in the Orlando Section, however, Dr. Hampton is perhaps best known for his extraordinary service to ACS. Over the years, he has served as Orlando Section Chair, National Councilor, Chair of the U.S. Chemistry Olympiad Selection Committee, Chair of the Southeast Regional Steering Committee, and Chair of the National Chemistry Olympiad Mentor Selection Committee for more than three decades. His dedication has helped shape and inspire generations of young chemists while strengthening ACS at the local, regional, and national levels.
Dr. Hampton’s career exemplifies the very best of our profession through excellence in teaching, research, mentorship, and service.