FACULTY Plainspoken Scientist Led OES


to National Role BILL LAMB, SCIENCE


Bill Lamb:


Milsaps College, BS in chemistry with minors in English, history, and math


University of Texas,


Austin, PhD in science education and


MS in environmental education


Appointed 1982


“The school has established a


national reputation


in prestigious science competitions because of his drive and


genius for picking the right project for the right student.”


— Peter Langley


S


ince 1982, Bill Lamb’s classes—in chemistry, physics, astronomy, and


psychology—have provided a rite of passage for all students with science aspirations. He has been head of the science depart- ment several times, and his inf luence on science and science teaching in the Portland area has been profound. He started Saturday Academy’s apprentice- ships in science and engineering and was one of the founders of the Northwest Science Expo, which serves as the regional fair for all of Oregon and southern Washington and which contin- ues to grow and flourish. Bill instituted science


research at OES, and the school 8 OES MAGAZINE WINTER 2011 8


has established a national reputation in prestigious science competitions because of his drive and genius for picking the right project for the right student. He started the jazz band at the school, and he coached volleyball for many years. His trenchant and pithy comments are a feature of faculty meetings, and no one is safe from his e-mails; it is hard to think of an area of school life that he has not impacted to a greater or lesser extent. In recognition of his exceptional commitment to OES, he was made an Honorary Alumnus in 2003. Bill and his wife, Marilyn, have raised and educated four


children—all OES graduates— and are now helping to look after grandchildren. In his limited spare time, Bill reads mystery novels, gardens with a particular enthusiasm for vegetables, cooks meals with a southern flavor, and solves crossword and Sudoku puzzles. He sings and plays a mean piano in his own band and also frequents jazz and rock clubs to follow local and national talent. He plans to retire soon, his enthusiasm for science and teaching undimmed. Few teachers can say that and even fewer can say that after such an illustrious and inf luential career.


by Peter Langley, Science Teacher


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