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By David A. Laviska, Portfolio Manager for Green Chemistry and Sustainability in Education, ACS Green Chemistry Institute
With respect and sadness, we at the ACS Green Chemistry Institute share the news that our esteemed colleague and collaborator Dr. Edward J. Brush passed away on February 23, 2025. In addition to collaborating with GCI staff on a diverse portfolio of projects for more than a decade, Ed was a friend and mentor who consistently sought out opportunities to uplift and shine the spotlight on his colleagues. His gentle, welcoming manner, kindness, and intellectual generosity will be greatly missed here at the GCI and across the Green Chemistry Education community.
Ed spent the most of his career at Bridgewater State University (BSU) in Bridgewater, MA, where he was a beloved professor of organic chemistry, a highly successful pedagogical innovator, and a vigorous advocate for the inclusion of green and sustainable chemistry principles in higher education. In a statement issued by BSU, it was noted that Ed’s “dedication to undergraduate research transformed the learning experience for countless students, many of whom went on to pursue advanced degrees and impactful careers in chemistry and related fields.” Ed was strongly committed to service to the community and forged a strong bond with the Green Chemistry Institute and the ACS more broadly. In addition to his service on multiple ACS committees, Ed collaborated with the GCI and members of our green chemistry community to chair, co-chair, and speak in dozens of symposia, workshops, and related events all meant to highlight the importance of green chemistry, systems thinking, environmental and social justice, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in teaching and research.
We will celebrate Ed’s life and legacy at the 29th Annual Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference in Pittsburgh, PA from June 23-26, 2025. You can read his published obituary here.