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FSC chemistry/physics department 
holds spring chemistry lecture
Dr. Helen M. Free, distinguished chemist,
is guest speaker

LAKELAND, Fla. (March 7, 2003) - Florida Southern's chemistry/physics department holds its spring lecture with guest speaker Dr. Helen M. Free, a leading scientist in clinical chemistry. The lecture takes place March 17 at 4:30 p.m. in Polk County Science Building, Dr. James M. Marlowe Lecture Hall, room 152. The public is welcome to attend. 

Free's lecture is titled, "Chemistry--Contributions to the Quality of Life and Clinical Chemistry." She will present examples to illustrate how to communicate the benefits of chemistry to the public, including chemistry's major contributions to the monitoring of diabetes and testing for inborn errors of metabolism to prevent mental retardation.

One of the world's leading experts on urinalysis, Free developed the "dip-and-read" test used by diabetics to monitor their blood glucose level instantly at home. "Dr. Free is a distinguished chemist and promoter of science," said Dr. Carmen Gauthier, chair of the chemistry/physics department. "I feel privileged that she has accepted our invitation to visit." 

Free holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the College of Wooster and a master's degree in management in the health care field from Central Michigan University. She joined Miles Inc., a subsidiary of Bayer Corporation, in 1944. Her career includes wide experience in laboratory work, management, growth and development, manufacturing, and marketing related to clinical chemistry, medical devices, and management in the health care area. She holds several patents and has published over 200 papers. 

In addition to her research in diagnostic chemistry, Free has been active in professional organizations. She has held many elected positions in scientific societies, including president of the American Association for Clinical Chemistry in 1990 and president of the American Chemical Society in 1993. Free has devoted special attention to female and underprivileged students through programs such as "Kids & Chemistry" and "Expanding Your Horizons."

About Florida Southern College
Florida Southern is a four-year, private, co-educational liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The college offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and a master of business administration degree accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Located in Lakeland, Fla., the college is home to the largest, single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world.

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