Kalamazoo Section of the
American Chemical Society

Our mission is to advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Allegan, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren counties.

KACS is committed to improving people’s lives in our community through the transforming power of chemistry. 

We provide:

Chemistry Day at the Museum

Save the Date and Call for Volunteers

Chemistry Day at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum will be held on October 17, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Get ready to educate, entertain, and entice the next generation to the wonders of chemistry and watch the smiles on the faces of children and adults alike! The theme of the 2026 National Chemistry Week celebration is Chemistry Under Construction. Do you have a great activity or experiment you can share with an audience of middle school students? Are you interested in demonstrating one of several experiments that are performed every year at this event? Do you have no idea what this event is about but are willing to contribute a few hours of your time on a Saturday in October to brighten the day of young scientists in our community? We need your help to make this event a success! If you are interested in participating, please email Hershel Jude or Carol Guerrero.

Elements of Kalamazoo Movie link (YouTube)

Our Monthly Newsletter Keeps You Informed

Here are some of our latest articles:

KACS Election Season is Here!

*The Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society will soon be conducting elections for the 2027 Executive Committee. We are currently seeking nominees for two important positions: Chair-Elect and Alternate Councilor.

Last Call for Volunteers for ACS 150th

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the American Chemical Society, the Kalamazoo Local Section (KACS) has been partnering with the Kalamazoo Valley Museum to educate the public about how “Chemistry is Everywhere.” Through immersive planetarium experiences and interactive exhibit-based engagement, visitors explore local contributions to chemistry while connecting with KACS members who are on-site to share insights and information about the organization. These activities are designed to strengthen community ties, promote chemistry literacy and invite deeper involvement in the mission of the ACS. On Saturday, November 7 from 1 to 3 p.m., the Kalamazoo Valley Museum will host our last of four free community programs in this year-long celebration. The event has been supported by an ACS Innovative Project Grant.

In Memoriam

Below are notices of the deaths of two long-time Section members and colleagues: Herman W. Smith and Professor Tom Smith.