Scientist,alum offer words of ecouragement

By Diana Gonzalez

More than 30 years after graduating from Fresno State with a chemistry degree, Dr. Richard Houghton returned to campus this week to inspire students in the fields of science and entrepreneurship as this year’s Entrepreneur in Residence.

“ If I’m able to spark an interest in just one student, then my trip to Fresno will have been worth it,” Houghton said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have many mentors throughout my lifetime who’ve given me advice that has made the world of difference to me.”

The Entrepreneur in Residence program was designed to give an entrepreneur with Valley ties the opportunity to speak with students, faculty and community members about themselves and their business.

A committee under the direction of the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a non-profit organization sponsored through the Craig School of Business, selects an outstanding entrepreneur every year for the distinction.

Houghton, an internationally known scientist, has authored more than 480 articles and holds 60 U.S. patents.

Dr. Tim Stearns, director for the Lyles Center, said it’s important for Fresno State students to take note of Houghton’s visit to the Valley.

“ As students graduate and start their careers, they’ll realize how important it is to develop a network of professionals,” Stearns said. “The Entrepreneur in Residence program gives students the opportunity to begin that process.”

Houghton credited much of his success to his education at Fresno State.

“ I gained a tremendous foundation while studying here,” Houghton said. “It doesn’t make a difference if you go to Harvard, Yale or Fresno State. If you work hard and learn what you need to, you’ll be successful.”

Houghton also founded the Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies in San Diego.

The Institute was created in 1988 as a non-profit organization that conducts research on new drugs, patents their findings and licenses out the new medication to companies worldwide. These new drugs have made huge medical contributions in fighting infectious diseases, cancer, AIDS, Multiple Sclerosis, heart disease and more. In addition, the institute provides career growth opportunities for young scientists.

Houghton made presentations to chemistry and entrepreneur majors throughout the week, telling them about his successes, failures and how the campus has changed through the years.

Houghton laughed in saying, “I remember when the McLane Hall used to be the end of campus.”

Students who missed Houghton speak earlier this week are not too late. His last presentation on biotechnology will be at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Science building, Room 300.