NW Missouri Times

A Northwest Missouri State University alumnus has established an endowed professorship in chemistry to support faculty at the institution. Cal Goeders, a 1953 graduate of Northwest, along with his late wife Marilyn, created the Calvin and Marilyn Goeders Endowed Professorship in Chemistry. This initiative will provide $20,000 annually to recognize a faculty member for exemplary service while supporting professional development and enhanced instruction.

Laurie Long, a senior gift planning officer with Northwest, expressed gratitude for the couple's ongoing support: “We remain grateful for Cal and Marilyn’s long-term support and interest in the ongoing success of our University.” She added that their commitment is inspiring and will impact both faculty and students.

Northwest Provost Dr. Jamie Hooyman also acknowledged the contribution: “Through the generosity of the Goeders, Northwest will be able to uplift high-quality faculty in chemistry.”

Cal Goeders' career began after serving in the U.S. Navy and teaching at educational institutions in Iowa. He later joined Dow Chemical Company as a chemist before founding Caltech Industries in 1980 to develop infection control products. He retired from Caltech in 1996.

In addition to his professional achievements, Cal initiated a volunteer program for retired scientists and engineers at a low-income elementary school in Midland, Michigan. The program improved state test scores significantly.

Marilyn Goeders pursued nursing education later in life, earning her certification from Delta College in Michigan and working as a nurse until the mid-1990s. The couple were married for 72 years until Marilyn passed away recently at age 94.

Cal credits his time at Northwest Missouri State University with shaping his career path: “It was just the highest level of academia that I was aware of.”

The Goeders have supported Northwest through contributions to scholarships honoring faculty mentors like J. Gordon Strong.

For those interested in supporting the Calvin and Marilyn Goeders Endowed Professorship or other funds at Northwest Missouri State University, contact details are available on request.