On April 12th, 2025, the University of Utah Chemistry Department unveiled a statue of Utah’s most distinguished scientist, Henry Eyring. The statue – sculpted by Mark Degraffenried, cast under the direction of Brett Wright, and funded by the Semnani Family Foundation – stands proudly in the center of the atrium of his namesake building, commemorating his profound impact on the University and our department during his time as Professor of Chemistry and inaugural Dean of the Graduate School.
The Department was honored to be joined by Henry Eyring’s descendants and loved ones, including his son, President Henry B. Eyring, and over 100 other guests. Peter Armentrout, Chair of the Chemistry Department, along with University President Taylor Randall, kicked off the unveiling ceremony by sharing remarks about Henry Eyring’s influence on the Chemistry Department.
Armentrout noted, “But beyond his remarkable scientific achievements, Dr. Eyring was also known for his passion for education, his infectious enthusiasm for discovery, and his unique ability to bridge the realms of science and more profound philosophical thought. His time within these walls helped establish a research program that continues to inspire and influence scientists to this day.”
Khosrow Semnani, former student of Henry Eyring’s, spoke next. Semnani describes Eyring as a guiding light in his life, and funded the design and installation of the statue as a way to pay forward his mentor’s generosity.
Next, we heard remarks from another one of Eyring’s former students, Hossein Ghandehari, read by his brother Hamid Ghandehari, who shared fond memories of Eyring and his extraordinary teaching.
Following these remarks, the statue was unveiled by Amentrout, Semnani, Eyring, and Randall.
Lastly, we heard from President Henry B. Eyring, an academic in his own right and now second counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Eyring remarked on his father’s passion for chemistry, teaching, and his faith.
During his speech, Eyring shared that it was his father’s firm belief that he was a child of God: “…and that God was the great creator, and really understood chemistry, really understood everything” that in turn benefited his students and colleagues, all of whom, Henry Eyring felt, were loved by not only a higher power, but a deified father figure.
Henry Eyring’s statue will serve as a reminder of his brilliant scientific discoveries as well as a model for University of Utah Chemistry students and faculty for years to come. As Peter Armentrout stated, “This statue will stand as a symbol of inspiration for generations of students and researchers who will walk through these halls, reminding them of the heights that can be reached through dedication and passion.”
