Nobel Laureate Sir David W. C. MacMillan to Headline 46th Kentucky Derby Lecture Series

The Department of Chemistry and the Chemistry Graduate Student Association invite students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members to attend the 46th Kentucky Derby Lecture Series featuring 2021 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry David W. C. MacMillan. You must register today to attend!

MacMillan, the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Chemistry at Princeton University, is internationally recognized for groundbreaking work in catalysis and organic chemistry that earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2021. 

The Derby Lecture Series offers students and alumni a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of the world’s leading scientists, connect with fellow Cardinals and celebrate the impact of chemistry research and discovery. 

Event Schedule 

Technical Lecture 
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. 
Student Activities Center Floyd Theater 
“The Development of Photocatalytic Reactions of Value to Chemists and Biologists” 

Derby Lecture Banquet 
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 6 p.m. 
Garden Court, Schlegel Hall Parking Lot 
1044 Alta Vista Rd., Louisville, KY 40205 

Guests will have the opportunity to meet Sir MacMillan and connect with students, alumni, faculty and friends of the department over dinner and drinks. 

General Lecture 
Friday, May 15, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. 
Student Activities Center Floyd Theater 
“Pathways to Discovery in Catalysis and Life” 

All events are free to attend for invited guests. Attendees may bring one guest to the banquet for $15. 

Please RSVP by May 11: 

• Register for the 46th Annual Derby Lecture Series and Banquet
• Support Future Derby Lecture Series Events with a Donation  

The Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Graduate Student Association look forward to welcoming the campus community and alumni back for this longstanding departmental tradition.