On October 11, 2014, surrounded by family and close friends – including Dr. Arvind Varma, Jay and Cynthia Ihlenfeld Head of Chemical Engineering – Robert (Bob) T. Henson celebrated his 100^th birthday at the Cherokee Country Club in Atlanta, Georgia.

Mr. Henson founded Flexible Products Company in 1951. By the time it was sold to Dow Chemical in 2000, it had grown to become one of the largest polyurethane suppliers in North America.

Bob’s wife, Adeline “Coc” Henson, passed away in August 2010 at the age of 93. She served as the secretary for Flexible Products Company and was a tireless volunteer for many charities. They were married for 73 years.

The Robert T. Henson Atrium in Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering was named in recognition of the Hensons’ generosity to the School of Chemical Engineering. They received the President’s Council Distinguished Pinnacle Award in the atrium during The Campaign for Purdue celebration on June 30, 2007.

Mr. Henson received the Outstanding Chemical Engineer award in 1989.

Dr. Varma shared a video tribute with Mr. Henson in honor of this special birthday.