Samuel P. Massie's outstanding educational career as a chemistry professor has led him to be recognized as a leader in the field of chemical education. For his contributions to both the scientific and academic community, Massie received the 1961 Chemical Manufacturers Association award for "excellence in chemistry teaching" and "in recognition of service to the scientific community in instructing and inspiring students." Massie was nominated for this award by his colleagues and students at Fisk University.

Samuel Proctor Massie was born in North Little Rock, Arkansas, on July 3, 1919. An excellent student, Massie graduated from high school at the age of thirteen. He then attended Dunbar Junior College. When Massie graduated from Dunbar he went to the Agricultural Mechanical and Normal College of Arkansas, where he received a bachelor of science degree in 1938. In 1939 he began working as a laboratory assistant in chemistry at Fisk University, where he also obtained...