Lloyd N. Ferguson, (1918-2011), was Cal State L.A. Emeritus Professor of Chemistry. He received a B.S. degree with Honors (1940) and a Ph.D. (1943) from the University of California, Berkeley. He spent 21 years in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Cal State L.A. after a distinguished 20-year career in the Chemistry Department at Howard University, where his achievements included the establishment of the first PhD program in chemistry at a Historically Black College or University. Then he spent 21 years in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Cal State LA. Dr. Ferguson served as a role model for hundreds of minority students who have gone on to careers in science and technology.
Dr. Ferguson developed a world-wide reputation as a scientist and educator. He was the author of more than 50 journal articles and seven textbooks. His research spanned the areas of cancer chemotherapy, the relationship between structure and biological activity, and the functioning of our sense of taste. Dr. Ferguson was chairman of the American Chemical Society’s Division of Chemical Education, served as director of Cal State L.A.’s Minority Biomedical Research Support (MBRS) program from its inception in 1973 through 1984, and was program director for many NSF teaching and research participation programs.
Dr. Ferguson received many honors including a number of honorary doctorates, the California State University Statewide Outstanding Professor Award, the Chemical Manufacturers Association Award in Chemical Education, and the American Chemical Society Award in Chemical Education.
Dr. Ferguson was a good friend and mentor to his Cal State LA colleagues and helped put this university on the map. Yet his greatest legacy is the generations of students that benefited from his teaching and participation in the MBRS Program. Dr. Ferguson enabled hundreds of our students to initiate careers as college professors, research scientists, and health professionals. MBRS has become part of the Minority Opportunities in Research (MORE) Programs that continues his work today.