CRS Institute

Formed as a non-profit 501(c)(3) in 2001, the Institute is named after noted chemistry educator and researcher, Dr. Charles Richard Saunders.  Dr. Saunders, a native of Pensacola, Florida, held B.S. and M.S. degrees from the Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University) and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska.  He began his teaching career at Lafayette College in 1925 after receiving his master’s degree from Auburn.  In 1928 he continued studies for his doctorate at Nebraska receiving his degree in 1930.

For the next two years he served as a research chemist with Dupont Company, then joined the chemistry faculty at Auburn in 1932.  He was appointed Dean of the School of Chemistry in 1950, serving until 1968 when the school’s departments were merged with other schools.  He continued to teach until his retirement September 1, 1971.

Saunders also served the State of Alabama as it’s “State Chemist” for over 20 years.

Following his retirement, the Alabama State Legislature, by joint resolution, named the chemistry building at Auburn University in his honor. 

Dr. Saunders was well known for his advocacy for applied research recognizing the role of Auburn’s land grant status and its role in providing academic pursuits that benefit the citizens of the state.