This issue of Momentum: Research and Innovation is dedicated to Thomas J. Rockett, Ph.D. who passed away on September 19, 2024.

Tom was a graduate of Tufts University and received his master’s degree in geophysics from Boston College and his Ph.D. in mineralogy and mineral engineering from Ohio State University. He began his career with the Air Force Research Lab at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, working on early applications of space probes and ceramic heat shields as part of the Apollo program. He also worked as a research scientist for Monsanto, and on materials for the Starr Edwards Heart Valve and other medical devices at American Hospital Supply.

He joined URI in 1971 as a professor of chemical engineering and thoroughly enjoyed teaching, mentoring faculty, collaborating with his colleagues, and working with students in the research lab. In his nearly 30 years at the University, he served as chair of the chemical engineering department, advancing to vice provost for research and dean of the Graduate School. One of his favorite responsibilities in this role was quoting movies and music from the year in his commencement speech as he imparted his sage wisdom on the graduates.

After his retirement in June 2000, he was appointed by Governor Donald Carcieri to the Board of Governors for Higher Education, serving until 2011. He was also a founding member of the URI Research Foundation, until 2023, a founding member of the Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council, and board member of the East Greenwich Library.

He was a true gentleman, a kind, intelligent, generous, and thoughtful person. He and his wife Sarah, who also worked at URI, were married for 60 years. Tom was dedicated to his family, the University of Rhode Island, and the state of Rhode Island. He found great joy in life and shared that joy with all who knew him. Anyone who spent time with him left with a smile on their face.