Dr. William J. James in 2010 at an S&T reception for the dedication of Straumanis-James Hall.
The Missouri S&T community is saddened to learn of the death of Dr. William “Bill” Joseph James, professor emeritus of chemistry. James passed away Sunday, Jan. 26, at the age of 102.
James joined Missouri S&T in 1953 as an assistant professor of chemistry. In 1964, he founded the Graduate Center for Materials Research, now known as the Materials Research Center, and served as director until 1975, and then served as director again from 1980 to 1982. In 2010, Straumanis Hall, the building that housed the center, was renovated and renamed Straumanis-James Hall in honor of him. A memorial service will be held at a later date.