Richard K. Vitek, a 1958 chemistry graduate, began his career as a research chemist producing uranium from ore, before moving on to work as a scientist, director and startup CEO. His accomplishments include working with the U.S. Coast Guard to develop UV imaging instruments that analyze oil spills to identify the tankers responsible and develop a method of testing arsenic levels in wine that led the Environmental Protection Agency to impose stricter limits on pesticide use in U.S. vineyards.
Share This Story
Spark a Memory?
Share your story! Fill out the form below to share your fondest memory or anecdote of S&T. If you'd prefer not typing, you can also share by phone at 833-646-3715 (833-Miner150).
Amanda (Gealy) and Logan Meyer
Amanda (Gealy) and Logan Meyer met through mutual friends during St. Pat’s in 2010. Amanda earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees…
Mo Dehghani: what lies ahead
Mohammad “Mo” Dehghani, who has been chancellor at S&T since 2019, discusses what he believes...
Camille (Anderson) and Mark Herrera
Camille (Anderson) and Mark Herrera met in February 2007 after a mutual friend arranged for a double date at Alex’s…
First impressions: UM System President Mun Choi
Mun Choi, who has served as president of the University of Missouri System since 2017...
Creating fashion for feet
When Darla Ellis, a 2006 graduate in chemical engineering, began a summer internship with Nike, Inc. during her senior year…
Janet Kavandi on faculty support
Janet Kavandi, who earned a master’s degree in chemistry in 1982, discusses the importance of...