Winifred Burks-Houck

Winifred Burks-Houck (August 20, 1950 – May 6, 2004) was an environmental organic chemist and the first female president of National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE), serving from 1993 – 2001.

Personal life

Winifred Burks-Houck was born on August 20, 1950, in Anniston, Alabama, the daughter of Mary Emma Goodson-Burks and Matthew Burks. In honor of her scientific work, Burks-Houck was named a Project Cherish Honoree at Delta Sigma Theta's 43rd annual national convention. Burks-Houck continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from Dillard University followed by a Master of Science Degree in Organic Chemistry from Atlanta University.

Career

In 1983, Burks-Houck joined Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, working as an environmental chemist on environmental protection projects with an interest in ensuring worker safety.

National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE)

Burks-Houck was dedicated to the establishment of the NOBCChE on the West Coast and its national endeavours.

In 2010, the NOBCChE created the Winifred Burks-Houck Professional Leadership Awards and Symposium. This award is given for outstanding work in the fields of science and technology to African American women.