George Smith, a distinguished emeritus professor of biology at the University of Missouri, has made headlines not just for winning the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry but for his remarkable decision to donate his entire $250,000 prize to benefit students. This generous act aims to establish the Missouri Nobel Scholarship Fund, specifically designed for students within the College of Arts and Sciences at his university.
In a recent community event, Smith shared his thoughts on the significance of education, stating, “This might surprise some people, but my first degree was actually a bachelor of arts, not a bachelor of science. My liberal arts education was the springboard for a lifetime of learning and cultural engagement. My wife and I hope that supporting the liberal arts as a whole will enrich the lives of future MU students, whatever careers they choose.” His commitment to fostering a rich educational environment reflects his belief in the transformative power of education.
In appreciative recognition of Smith’s generosity, the University of Missouri committed an additional $300,000 to the scholarship fund. Chancellor Alexander N. Cartwright announced a new tradition whereby the university will donate $100,000 for every faculty member who wins a Nobel Prize, with Smith being the inaugural recipient of this initiative. Cartwright expressed admiration for Smith’s humility and generosity, emphasizing how such contributions enable more students to experience world-class education at MU.
Smith’s Nobel Prize was awarded for his pioneering work in phage display, a groundbreaking technique that allows researchers to screen and harvest molecules for targeting bacteria. This innovative method has had far-reaching implications in laboratories around the globe and has facilitated advancements in medical treatments, including therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
Despite his monumental achievements, Smith remains grounded. After returning from the Nobel ceremony in Sweden, he humorously noted that having a designated space on the campus bike rack—since he bikes to work daily—was more rewarding than receiving the substantial prize money.
Through his scholarship fund and continued dedication to education, George Smith exemplifies how one can leverage personal success to create opportunities for future generations. His actions honor his own educational journey and also inspire countless students to pursue their dreams with the support they need to succeed.