Professional Achievement Award

Dr. Songzhou Hu, Grad ’91
Princeton, N.J.

When asked how he defines success, Dr. Songzhou Hu says that simply arriving on Marquette’s campus felt like success. He grew up in rural China during the cultural revolution, where he attended schools that lacked textbooks. He credits the late James Kincaid, professor emeritus of chemistry and former chair of the department of chemistry, for making his studies at Marquette possible.

“Jim Kincaid changed my life,” Song says. When he first wrote a letter to Dr. Kincaid, expressing interest in his research, the professor found ways to waive application fees so that Song could pursue his doctorate at Marquette. “From day one, he taught me how to become a successful researcher, and how to manage research,” Song recounts. “His enthusiasm has left a lifelong impression on me. He laid the foundation for me to build our life and business in the United States.”

The Marquette mission became important to Song during his studies. “My Marquette experiences taught me to help others and make the world a better place,” he says.

Today, Song is chairman of Vitaworks, LLC, a company that has developed new green technologies for use in human and animal nutrition products. “Green” chemical products and processes are designed in ways that reduce or eliminate hazardous substances.

“We are very proud that our work improves the environmental footprint of our daily lives and helps our world.” Song says.

Fun Facts:

What is one of your favorite Marquette memories?
My first Thanksgiving lunch after I came to the United States, hosted by Marquette. I still remember the smell of roasting turkey and I have a photo [from that day]. I cherish that uniquely American experience.

Leave a congratulatory message for Song!