Statements from NSB Chair and Acting NSF Director on the passing of Steven C. Beering

April 7, 2020

Dr. Steven C. Beering began serving on the National Science Board in 2002. In 2006, he was voted Chair of the Board and he served in that capacity until he completed his service in May of 2010. He died on April 6, 2020. A self-proclaimed "builder of people," Dr. Beering brought to the National Science Board the same passion for science and people with which he led Purdue University for almost 20 years.

Below are statements from current NSB Chair, Dr. Diane Souvaine, and NSF Acting Director, Dr. Kelvin Droegemeier.

"He was the National Science Board Chair when I first joined the Board in 2008 and he set the example with which I have tried to serve during my tenure as Board Chair. He was a terrific leader and even more generous human being."

– Dr. Diane Souvaine, Chair, National Science Board

"Dr. Steve Beering led an exceptional life and was one of our Nation's foremost leaders -- as a physician, including to a President and the Original Seven NASA astronauts, as the chief executive for nearly two decades of one of the world's foremost universities, and as a public servant.  Dr. Beering was a champion of science and for four years Chaired the National Science Board.  Although his quick mind, charm, wisdom, and bountiful array of stories will be greatly missed, his broad and deep impact will remain for decades to come."

– Dr. Kelvin Droegemeier, Acting Director, National Science Foundation

About the National Science Board

The National Science Board and the National Science Foundation's Director jointly head NSF. NSB identifies issues critical to NSF's future and establishes the Foundation's policies. The NSB also provides the President and Congress with Science and Engineering Indicators, a biennial report on the state of science and engineering in the United States. Members are appointed by the President for six-year terms and selected for their eminence in research, education and records of distinguished service.

Media contact: Nadine Lymn, National Science Board Office, (703) 292-2490, nlymn@nsf.gov

Media Contact: Jennifer Plozai, National Science Foundation, (703) 292-8044, jplozai@nsf.gov

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