J. Donald Rimstidt, professor of geochemistry in the College of Science at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the "professor emeritus" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1980, Rimsidt made significant research contributions in the field of geochemistry. He authored over 73 publications; co-authored the Resource Geology lab manual; was contributing editor to various book chapters; and served as associate editor of Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, the journal of The Geochemical Society and The Meteoritical Society. He was also inducted as a Fellow of the Mineralogical Society of America.

As a professor, Rimstidt taught a wide range of geosciences courses ranging from freshman to advanced graduate level. He also advised and counseled numerous undergraduate and graduate students and served at the graduate advisor for master's and doctoral students. Rimstidt also served as a department chair, an assistant chair, and on numerous departmental committees.

Rimstidt received his bachelor's degree from Purdue University, a master's degree from Indiana University, and a Ph.D. from The Pennsylvania State University.

Written by Krystyne Hayes. Hayes, of Front Royal, Va., holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication from the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences.

Share this story