RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — February 24, 2016 — Fred L. Cook, known for his wide-ranging contributions to the fields of polymer/textile chemistry applied to sustainable developments in textile/carpet wet processes and novel fiber/materials innovations, is the 2015 recipient of the Olney Medal. The Olney Medal, the highest award presented by AATCC, is for outstanding achievement in textile or polymer chemistry or other fields of chemistry of major importance to textile science.
Cook’s work over the past 40 years has spanned a broad range of interests, pivoting around sustainable textile/carpet wet process developments and novel fiber/materials innovations.His pioneering work on energy-conservation and sustainable dyeing technologies is of major interest and practicality for the textile/carpet industries. Cook’s work has exemplified the importance of visionary thinking in turning ideas tested in the laboratory into practical products and processes.
Cook has been an actively participating member of AATCC since 1968. He has served the Association in many roles, helping to achieve significant milestones, including serving as AATCC President (2009-2010), serving on the AATCC Board of Directors, and chairing and serving on numerous research and administrative committees, including the Executive Committee on Research (ECR).
Cook chaired the 2011–2014 AATCC Five-Year Strategic Planning Committee, which charted the course for AATCC. Cook has also supported AATCC’s publications, serving as a reviewer for Textile Chemist and Colorist and AATCC Review. He currently serves on the Editorial Board of the new AATCC Journal of Research and as has contributed papers to these publications. He has also served on the Editorial Boards of other industry-based and scientific publications, including Textile World, Textile Progress, and the Journal of Engineered Fibers and Fabrics (JEFF). He has also been active as a consultant and/or expert witness to a variety of textile, polymer, utility companies, and law firms.
Presentation of the medal each year is a highlight of AATCC’s International Conference. This year, the conference will be held at the Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, VA, USA, from April 19-21, 2016. The Association will present the Olney Medal at the Awards Luncheon on April 21, 2016.
The Olney Medal
Established in 1944 in honor of Louis Atwell Olney, the founder and first president of AATCC, the Olney Medal recognizes outstanding achievement in textile or polymer chemistry or other fields of chemistry of major importance to textile science. The award consists of a gold medal, a scroll, and an honorarium.
Posted February 25, 2016
Source: AATCC, the Association of Textile, Apparel & Materials Professionals
