By Communications staff, College of Arts and Sciences
In the world of chemistry, the Matteson Reaction is known for its ability to form carbon to carbon bonds, a crucial process in organic synthesis. However, in the College of Arts and Sciences, the “Matteson Reaction” means something more profound: the transformative power of an exceptional faculty member on the lives of students and the ripple effect that continues long after graduation.
Donald S. Matteson, a distinguished professor emeritus of chemistry at WSU, discovered the reaction that bears his name and catalyzed a reaction of generosity that continues to this day. Recently, one of Matteson’s graduate students made a significant gift to the Matteson Distinguished Professorship in Chemistry in honor of his mentor, demonstrating the lasting impact of faculty-student relationships.
With a career at WSU spanning four decades, Matteson made groundbreaking discoveries in organoboron chemistry and mentored countless students. His innovative research led to the development of the Matteson Reaction, a method for stereospecific homologation of boronic esters that has found widespread use in pharmaceutical development and other fields.
Matteson’s impact extends far beyond his scientific achievements. As a dedicated educator, he inspired and guided generations of students, instilling in them knowledge, a passion for discovery, and a commitment to excellence.
Raymond Wei Mah, ’63, was Matteson’s first graduate student. Now a retired chemist from Dow Chemical Company, he recognized his success was largely due to the mentorship and guidance he received from Matteson. The two met at UC Berkeley when they were both undergraduate students. Mah enlisted in the service before returning to graduate school at WSU.
“Dr. Matteson didn’t just teach me chemistry,” he said, “he taught me how to think, how to approach problems, and how to persevere in the face of challenges. His influence has shaped my entire career, and I wanted to ensure that future students have access to the same quality of education and mentorship that I received.”
Moving to California following graduation, Mah began what would become his 33-year career. He and his wife, Shirley, raised their four sons in the San Francisco Bay area.
This gift illustrates why investing in exceptional faculty is crucial. Great professors like Matteson do more than teach—they inspire careers, foster innovation, and create a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.
The “Matteson Reaction” at WSU continues to this day. Each year, new students are inspired by passionate faculty, carrying forward the legacy of mentors like Matteson. And as these students go on to make their own mark on the world, many look back and recognize the transformative impact of their Coug experience.
Matteson’s effect on our College goes far beyond his namesake chemical reaction. His legacy continues to inspire new connections in research, in teaching, and in the spirit of giving back. Mah’s gift in honor of Matteson is a testament to the lasting influence of exceptional faculty, whose work ripples outward to shape both our institution and beyond.