Family donates $3.4M to 'U'

By Courtney Crimmins

For the Daily

To Beverly Vahlteich DeLaney, the education her father received at the University's College of Pharmacy was valuable in helping Hans W. Vahlteich discover his love of science.

Now, DeLaney has made a $3.4 million gift to the college to show the family's appreciation - the largest donation the school has ever received.

"The gift is in memory of my father, his life, and his passion for science which was nurtured and given the opportunity to flourish at the U-M College of Pharmacy," she said in a written statement.

Ara Paul, who served as dean of the college from 1975 to 1996 and is a friend of the family, said DeLaney wanted to commemorate her father and his experience at the University.

"He felt very strongly about his studies at the school," Paul said.

The donation will go toward professorships and research in biochemistry, microbiology and the relation of molecular structure to therapeutic values.

George Garcia, associate professor of medicinal chemistry and pharmacognosy, said the donation is important to the college because "funds bring in people with cutting edge research programs and will help the students."

It will also help the school complete initial research before asking for federal funds, Garcia said.

Dennis Gilbert, communications director for the College of Pharmacy, said the funds can also be used to attract highly qualified professors particularly in pharmaceutical sciences and medicinal chemistry where there are vacancies.

Garcia said recruiting the best benefits students and professors alike.

"Academic institutions with top notch professors, students and grad student researchers enhance the environment creating a 'community of scholars,'" Garcia said.

Reflecting on his career in 1977 Vahlteich said an education in pharmacy serves as an education in life.

"I much prefer pharmacy to a straight literary education. It gives tremendous capacity for enjoying life we wouldn't have without it," Vahlteich wrote.

While at the University, Vahlteich earned a masters of science degree as a Fredrick Sterns fellow in 1921.

He also worked as a reporter for The Michigan Daily and established the alpha chapter of the Aristolochite Society, which earned him the Society's Distinguished Service Award in 1980.

He went on to work at Best Foods Inc., starting as a research chemist and became a vice president of research and quality control in 1943.

At the company, Vahlteich patented work in the hydrogenation of domestic vegetable oils accelerated development as well as furthered public acceptance of commercial margarine.

Vahleteich is also known for his contributions in making Hellman's Mayonnaise and Best Foods Mayonnaise widely-recognized brands.

Because the family is very private a small ceremony will be held in appreciation of the donation.

"He and mother were modest people who shunned public display and fanfare. This is something I know they would have approved: A gift to benefit and encourage scientific discovery and achievement," DeLaney said.