Michael ’66, talks fondly of his years at Rice, where he was a resident of Baker College, on the Thresher staff, and manager of the track team. He was at Rice when Fred Hansen ’63 won an Olympic gold medal in pole vault at the 1964 Games in Tokyo. Much was happening at Rice in the ’60s—unimaginable challenges and impressive accomplishments. Equally unimaginable were the extensive advancements that lay ahead in technology—advancements that would change the world and how research is conducted at Rice.

To Rice’s great benefit, Michael made a commitment to ensure that cutting-edge progress in research continues. Kathy Matthews, dean of natural sciences, told Michael of the challenges Rice faces “in providing an effective research infrastructure,” which consists of technical personnel to supervise and maintain equipment and the costs of service for instruments. She said Michael’s “recognition of the need was immediate and his response enthusiastic.”

Michael made a major gift that initiated the Shared Equipment Authority Endowment. It ensures, for example, that FTIR, electron, and Raman microscopes are well maintained—at the steep cost of $30,000 to $50,000 a year, according to Wade Adams, director of the Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology. The need is critical because equipment is shared among a diverse group of researchers. Thanks to Michael, many at Rice can continue their work. “I’m pleased to benefit nanotechnology research,” Michael said. “It’s just fascinating.”