Pittsburgh Chemical Day wasn’t always a full-day event complete with Workshop, Forum, and Dinner. Its early years called for evening cocktails, a dinner, and an address by a well-respected member of the Chemicals Industry family. CEO’s and Presidents of Fortune 500 companies have graced the Chemical Day dais. Past keynote speakers are so sufficiently impressed that they often endorse participation with future keynote speakers.

Founding fathers Harry Pugh (Chemical Sales Association/Monsanto) and Art Morgan (Purchasing Association/PPG Industries) met for lunch in 1967 to discuss the feasibility of a joint group dinner. Upon agreement to move forward, the Chemical Marketing Association and its Chairman Ray Siren were also invited; ultimately Ralph Reed, President-Elect of the Sales Association, was selected to chair the initial Pittsburgh Chemical Day affair. The event was held on April 18, 1968, a date that coincided with National Chemical Week. Anticipating a crowd of 80-90, the event’s founders were astounded when 203 people convened at Chatham Center to hear John Gillis, Vice President, Monsanto, speak about “The International Posture of the U.S. Chemical Industry.” Sponsored by the aforementioned associations, the full committee for the first Pittsburgh Chemical Day consisted of the following: