Ronald J. Baumgarten

RJB was my all time favorite professor for more reasons than I can list here. When I started teaching, I always kept in mind how fun and engaging he was, as well as how clear and understandable his lectures were [which was remarkable for organic chemistry... lol], and did my best to be the same... big shoes to fill--big personality... but I like to think I'm at least kind of close now some ~28 years later in my teaching career. I think of him often, and today, paused to Google him and came...

Hi Ron (and friends), I think of you often and miss our chats. You were a wonderful teacher, friend and human being. (Photo is of Ron getting up close and personal with the local fauna during his sabbatical in NZ.)

Hey RJB! Yep, it is that time again - and we all miss you! I just gave a lecture and Larry Kolar was in the audience and he mentioned you right away as his name was on a publication we all did. Thanks for all your guidance and fun and amazing way you taught!

Hey RJB! Yep, that time of the year again. I cannot say what I have said any better than in my posts below. You are loved by many and missed as well. We all love you. "Peace and Love" Bob Pick

Ron profoundly influenced...no, inspired...me to become a professor, although I fell in with the wrong crowd and went into law instead of chemistry. His humor, humility, and genuine caring for his students made him the greatest teacher I've ever know. Ron's unique terminology ("orgies", not exams; "hot, erotic tips", not study guides) made his classes delightful rather than dreadful. What a wonderful person! God bless you, RJB, forever and ever.

Dr. Baumgarten was a caring, humorous , serious, knowledgeable, and informative chemistry professor. I thank him for teaching me organic chemistry and introducing me and other class members to the Mother Jones magazine. You are one of my human bridges and I will always remember you, Dr. Ronald Baumgarten.

Respectfully, Ms. Giles
Nov. 14, 2020

HEY RJB!

Well..yep - it is that time of year again. You meant so much to so many. You taught at a fun but serious level and were an early mentor for me. Larry Kolar and I talk about you often. Poor SUDs (Bob Suding) has passed Ron - watch for him - he sadly took his own life, so sad. I tell my Carmen about you often as I begin to scan old pictures to something called digital.

You would be proud of us all (that 1971-1972 Organic group that had you for all 3 courses). Herb...