Indianapolis—Esteemed professor emeritus of chemistry Erv Boschmann, Ph.D., gave ‘The Last Lecture’ on Monday, November 1, 2021. The Last Lecture Series offers the university community the opportunity to hear reflections on life’s lessons and meaning from a current or retired IUPUI colleague of exceptional merit. The featured speaker shares the wisdom they have gained through academic pursuits and life experiences, distilling a life of inquiry, reflection, and service into advice for successive generations. The Last Lecture Series is sponsored by the IUPUI Senior Academy, the IUPUI Office of Academic Affairs, and the Indiana University Foundation.
Boschmann, who is originally from Paraguay, detailed his journey from his home country, his time at Bethel College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and met his wife, Priscilla. Boschmann then moved on to the University of Colorado, earning his Ph.D. He was offered a job at IUPUI in 1968 and has been involved with the School of Science and other Indiana University campuses ever since.
"Others have helped me, taught me English, shown the power of active learning, and illustrated the power of great mentorship. I am with C. S. Lewis: Humility is not thinking less of myself, but thinking of myself less. It seems a higher power always steered me in the right direction," said Boschmann.
As the Department of Chemistry Chair Partha Basu stated, “Erv is a treasure to Indiana University.”
We at the School of Science agree, and we encourage you to watch his ‘Last Lecture.’