In Memoriam: Dr. Steven C. Welch

It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Dr. Steven C. Welch, renowned chemist and dedicated educator, on Aug. 9 at the age of 84. Known for groundbreaking work in the synthesis of natural products with significant biochemical and medical applications in his early career at the University of Houston, Dr. Welch went on to become the founding faculty of the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department and Professor Emeritus at Cal State San Marcos.

Dr. Welch began his illustrious career after earning a Ph.D. from UCLA and completing a postdoctoral fellowship at the California Institute of Technology. In 1970, he joined the faculty of the University of Houston's Department of Chemistry, where he quickly established a pioneering research program. His work focused on the synthesis of complex natural products, many of which were previously only obtainable through laborious extraction from natural sources. His innovative research not only advanced the field but also attracted significant funding and talented students.

In 1990, Dr. Welch joined California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) as a professor and the founding faculty member of the Department of Chemistry. He played a pivotal role in designing the chemistry major and developing a curriculum that has endured and met the highest standards of the American Chemical Society. Dr. Welch's foresight in integrating undergraduate research into the degree program enriched the educational experiences of countless students, ensuring they were well-prepared for both industry roles and graduate studies.

During his tenure at CSUSM, Dr. Welch served as the department chair for more than 12 years, where he was instrumental in hiring additional faculty and staff members, mentoring and supporting colleagues, and leading the design and outfitting of the Science Hall 1. His contributions to the department and the university community were vast, including serving as the first Academic Senate Chair and fostering strong relationships with colleagues at regional community colleges.

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Dr. Welch was deeply committed to his students. Known for his high standards and compassionate support, he constantly sought to improve his teaching methods to enhance student success. His passion for organic chemistry and dedication to his students left an indelible mark on the university and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for always planning thoughtfully and leading with kindness. Dr. Welch was an exceptional mentor to new faculty; providing advice but letting them find their own way. In addition, his soft spoken and kindly nature was essential to his promoting a sense of collegiality in the department. His foresight in designing microscale laboratory experiments resulted in a program that was both more affordable and more environmentally responsible than the vast majority of chemistry programs at the time.

Dr. Welch is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth, and his daughter, Melody Welch Vander Straten and her husband, David, and their two daughters. He is also survived by his first wife, Elaine, and his brother, Dennis Welch. His legacy will continue through the countless students and colleagues he mentored, the research he inspired, and the programs he established. A memorial service will be held on Oct. 10 at 1:30 p.m. at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Steven C. Welch Outstanding Graduate in Chemistry Award Fund at give.csusm.edu/stevencwelch .

Together, we honor Dr. Welch's profound impact on both his field and the academic communities he served.

Sincerely,

Jackie Trischman

Dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.