Alice Whitley

Dr Alice Whitley (6 February 1913 – 15 August 1990) was an Australian chemist and educator. Whitley focused on the science education of women and was for 50 years a faculty member at her alma mater Methodist Ladies' College (now known as the MLC School). She worked as a science teacher and headmistress. Whitley served as president of the Australian Science Teachers Association and the Association of Heads of Independent Girls' Schools.

Early life and education Alice Whitley was born on 6 February 1913 to Alfred and May Whitley in Stanmore, New South Wales. She attended Methodist Ladies' College, Burwwod, commencing in 1921 and was Dux of College in 1930. She earned a degree in Science from the University of Sydney.

Teaching career Whitley then taught mathematics at Brighton College, Manly and at SCEGGS Moss Vale, and was a science and mathematics teacher at MLC from 1941 to 1952. From 1952 to 1954, Whitley attended the University of London where she earned a PhD for her thesis in chemistry before returning to MLC as Head of Science and Deputy Headmistress from 1955 to 1959.

Death Whitley died aged 77 years old. A memorial service was held in her honour in Potts Hall at MLC on 25 August 1990. The plant molecular biologist Elizabeth Dennis, an MLC Old Girl, said at the time of her death that Whitley had been an inspiring high school chemistry teacher.

Honours and legacy Named a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire 11 June 1966. The library at MLC is named after Whitley. After her death the NSW Chapter of the Australian College of Educators presented the Dr Alice Whitley Award for Science Education.

Selected works Journal articles

Textbooks