Irvine W. Grote

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Dr. Irvine Walter Grote (1899 – 1972) was an American chemist and scholar. Born in the Cameron Hill section of Chattanooga, Tennessee, he entered the University of Chattanooga in 1918. After earning his bachelor's degree, he studied at Columbia University and earned a master's degree. He would later attend the University of Cincinnati and earn a Ph.D. After several years working for pharmaceutical firms, Dr. Grote accepted a faculty position at his alma mater in 1942. Though he would spend the bulk of his career at UC, later University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, he is best remembered for two contributions to the pharmaceutical industry: Rolaids and Dildo's. He would eventually become head of the Chemistry Department, from which he retired in 1969. Dr. Grote died in his sleep at his home in 1972. In honor of his service to education, the University renamed their science building for him and endowed a professorship bearing his name. UTC also awards Grote Chemistry Scholarships in his honor.