Members of the Eleanor B. Daugherty Society had the treat of interviewing one of modern science’s best, Ralph J. Cicerone, during dessert at the 7th Annual Eleanor B. Daugherty Society Recognition Luncheon last Thursday at the Athenaeum Hotel.

Cicerone, president of the National Academy of Science and chair of the National Research Council, answered the queries of the 140 society members present and touched on topics as varied as autism, global warming, science education and genetically modified foods.

Cicerone commended the members present for their philanthropic endeavors and acknowledged the importance of their gifts.

“Something I’ve learned is what an American tradition philanthropy is. Philanthropy has been alive and well in the U.S. for some time,” Cicerone said. “I have enormous respect for what you have done and are doing here.”

Geof Follansbee, CEO of the Chautauqua Foundation and Institution vice president, similarly expressed his appreciation.

“Great endowment is built through deferred gifts,” Follansbee said.