Alan Horace Shapley

Alan was my first supervisor at the National Bureau of Standards
when I came to work in physics as a "student trainee" during the
summer of 1948. He suggested a research topic and guided me
through publication of my first research paper. A few years
later, having noticed my interest in astronomy, he arranged for
me to spend a year at Harvard College Observatory where I was
able to do a research project under his illustrious father,
Harlow Shapley.

Thus, he started me on my research career and, though our paths
diverged at NBS, he was always available for helpful discussions.
I certainly miss him as a lifelong friend and confidant.

It's very difficult to imagine Boulder without Alan, as it was so difficult to imagine it without Kay. Together as a couple and as individuals they helped define and sustain the community in so many ways -- from science to music to politics. I always welcomed -- though with some anxiety -- Alan's typically probing and challenging and usually wry rejoinder to some political pronouncement. He helped make my life better -- what more can one say in gratitude?

Alan was a rare and kind person...to me as a young woman learning about politics, and civil rights.

I'd like to make a donation to the Boulder Public Library in his memory. Please give me a mail address so I can send you notice.

Marilyn Jorrie [email protected]