Outstanding Student Affiliate Chapters Generate a Special Chemistry and Enhance Chemical Literacy

The chapter of the student affiliates of the American Chemical Society at the University of Tennessee at Martin has won 3 commendable and 18 consecutive outstanding ratings, the most consecutive ratings of any student affiliate chapter, from the Society Committee on Education of the American Chemical Society. The activities of the chapter involve a great deal of pedagogic or “literal” chemistry, that is, the members learn and communicate several aspects of chemistry from the chapter programs. In addition, a “special” chemistry or camaraderie results when members prepare for and participate in the various club projects and activities. This article briefly describes specific activities of UTM student affiliates that help to develop both the literal and the special chemistry among members. Finally, The High School Science Bowl, which is a most electrifying and rejuvenating activity, is described in greater detail for the information of other chemistry clubs.