Gift from Diagnostics Innovator to Support Chemistry Department

Chemistry students and faculty will now have better opportunities to network and gain more exposure to cutting-edge research, thanks to a gift from Kathy Ordoñez ’72, H’00.

The gift, which is being made to the Chemistry Student/Faculty Travel Fund, is designed to help students and faculty attend and present at professional conferences and ensure that the Hartwick community remains at the forefront of innovation.

“This gift represents a significant starting point for an endowed fund that will allow our students and their faculty mentors to connect with the outside scientific community and all of the positive benefits therein,” said Chemistry Department Chair Andy Piefer.

“We know that presenting research work at a scientific meeting is a transformative experience for a young scientist. We know this because our alumni tell us that the experience validates their career pathway and motivates them to proceed to the next step.”

Andy Piefer

Professor & Chemistry Department Chair

Hartwick College student with Professor John Dudek with poster at National Conference

Hartwick College student with research poster at National Chemistry Conference

Hartwick College chemistry students in CA for National Chemistry Conference

Hartwick College student with research poster at National Chemistry Conference

Ordoñez holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science from Hartwick in 2000. Ordoñez was back on Oyaron Hill in 2012 as the commencement speaker and in 2011 as the keynote speaker for the College’s biotech symposium, “Biotechnology in Practice: Promises & Perils.”

Hartwick College alumna Kathy Ordoñez ’72, H’00

“I’m pleased to support scientists at Hartwick as they attend academic and industry meetings to present their work and connect with colleagues. This is a vital aspect of their development and contribution to the advancement of science.”

Kathy Ordoñez ’72, H’00

Ordoñez, founder of Celera Diagnostics, is on the board of Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc. She has 30 years of experience in the life sciences and diagnostics industries, having served as president at Celera Diagnostics and senior vice president of Diagnostic Solutions at Quest Diagnostics, Inc. Ordoñez has also served in executive leadership positions at RainDance Technologies, Inc., Hoffmann-La Roche, Inc., Roche Molecular Systems, Inc. and Applera Corp.

January 3, 2024

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