American Chemical Society

Overview

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress. Founded on April 6, 1876, ACS is one of the world's largest scientific organizations, with a membership exceeding 200,000 individuals from over 140 countries. It is dedicated to advancing the chemistry enterprise and improving people's lives through the transformative power of chemistry.

History

The ACS was established during a meeting of chemists at the University of the City of New York (now New York University). The society received its charter from the State of New York in 1877. Charles F. Chandler, a key organizer, envisioned the ACS as a stimulus for original research and a bridge between chemists and the public. John William Draper, a renowned photochemist, was elected as the first president.

Mission and Activities

• Mission: The ACS is committed to advancing scientific knowledge, empowering a global community, and championing scientific integrity. Its vision is a world built on science.
• Publications: ACS is a leading source of authoritative scientific information, publishing over 80 peer-reviewed journals, including the prestigious Journal of the American Chemical Society and the weekly magazine Chemical & Engineering News.
• Conferences and Education: The society hosts national and regional meetings, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. It supports STEM education through grants and scholarships.
• Policy and Advocacy: ACS works to promote public policies that foster the chemistry enterprise, focusing on areas such as innovation, education, and environmental protection.

Programs and Initiatives

• ACS Scholars Program: Offers scholarships and mentoring to underrepresented minority undergraduates in chemical sciences.
• Project SEED: Provides research opportunities for economically disadvantaged high school students.
• Advancing Chemistry Teaching: Supports professional development for science educators.
• ACS Green Chemistry Institute: Promotes green chemistry principles in all aspects of the chemical industry.

Notable Achievements

• CAS REGISTRY: Maintains a database of over 219 million unique substances and sequences.
• CAS Reactions and Patents: Provides access to millions of reactions and patents from around the world.
• Nobel Laureates: Hosts publications from numerous Chemistry Nobel Prize winners.

Financial Profile

As a non-profit organization, ACS generates revenue primarily from program services, including its Chemical Abstracts Service, alongside contributions, royalties, and investments. Its financial model supports extensive educational and research activities.

Membership Structure

ACS members come from a diverse background of chemists, chemical engineers, and related professions. The organization has over 185 local sections in the U.S. and international chapters, facilitating global networking and community engagement.