Roland W. Schmitt

• Born in 1923 in Seguin, Texas
• Received bachelors and masters degrees in physics and mathematics from the University of Texas
• Earned a doctorate in physics from Rice University
• Employed by General Electric from 1951-1986
• Named Director of Research and Development Center at GE in 1978 then Senior Vice President for Science and Technology and member of GE's Corporate Executive Council in 1986.
• Member of the National Science Board, 1982-1994; Chair, 1984-1988.
• President of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1988-1993; currently President Emeritus
• Completed Rensselaer's New Century Campaign to raise $200 million a year ahead of schedule.
• Introduced several new degrees including a Master's of Fine Arts and an MBA that emphasizes management and technology.
• Chairman of the American Institute of Physics Board of Governors.
• Member and President of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents Executive Council.