William J. Poehlman Service Award

Recognizing the section of the society, which has contributed the most towards accomplishing the goals and ideals of the society during the preceding year.

2025 Award Recipient

The Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh (SSP)
The Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh (SSP) is a philanthropic, educational organization dedicated to enriching the study and practice of spectroscopy. We thrive thanks to our vibrant and enthusiastic volunteers, now numbering about 170 members.

Since 1946, the SSP’s aim has been to promote scientific endeavors among spectroscopists at all professional levels. This is achieved through meetings, educational lectures and courses, mentorships, and access to a collaborative network of member-scientists.

Volunteers chosen from the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh (SSP), together with our sister organization, the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh (SACP), organize the annual Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy, better known transnationally as Pittcon.

It is from this annual conference and exposition that the SSP raises funds for its philanthropic efforts. Through Pittcon, the SSP and SACP donate approximately one million dollars each year to support various science outreach activities, including scholarships and internships, educator and scientific achievement awards, member and community educational programming, equipment grants, research grants, and grants to public science centers, libraries, and museums. (See: chemistryoutreach.org for more information.)