Remembering a Dynamic Duo

Elizabeth and James Bains Create Historic Gift For UT Physics and Astronomy

A Trailblazing Woman

The Department of Physics and Astronomy was honored and delighted to receive the largest unrestricted gift in its history from Elizabeth and James Bains, who earned their PhDs from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in the 1970s. One of exceedingly few women in her field at the time, Elizabeth Bains created a successful career with NASA that spanned the entire length of the American space shuttle program.

The Bainses’ estate gift, which came into effect after they passed away, was an incredibly generous surprise. Their gift, which was unrestricted, will give the physics and astronomy department liberty to apply funds where they are most needed over time. Initially, the department will set up the Elizabeth and James Bains Graduate Research Fellowship to expand opportunities for students from all backgrounds.

“This will be a prestigious fellowship and will allow graduate students to join a research group from their first day,” said Hanno Weitering, head of the department. “The Bainses’ gift is the biggest we have ever received, and it will allow us to support the diverse, top students we would like to bring in. We want to do something extra for our students, and I’m glad that we can.”

A Lifelong Love of Science

When the Bainses met at UT, they were both in the research group of the late UT physics Professor Mack Breazeale. At the time Laszlo Adler (’69), who is now professor emeritus of integrated systems engineering at the Ohio State University, was at UT. Adler and the Bainses became friends and collaborators in the field of ultrasonic research, a branch of physics that works with sound waves outside the audible range.

“Elizabeth was a very warm and close friend,” Adler said. “We were a pretty tight group, both scientifically and socially, and it was one of the largest ultrasonic research groups in the country.”

John Cantrell (’76), who became a senior materials physicist with NASA, was in the ultrasonics research group as well. He and his wife, Davie, spent a significant amount of time hiking with Elizabeth Bains in the Smoky Mountains. Both remember her as exceptionally inquisitive and warm.

“She was very bright, perceptive, and creative,” Cantrell said. “It just naturally followed that she would go into physics because it is the most fundamental of all the sciences. Liz was a very generous and kind person who bent over backwards to help others and be kind. She always went the extra mile.”

You Can Make a Difference

Consider using your estate plan to support the next generation of UT students—and be sure to let us know about your generosity, so we can thank you and ensure your gift is used as you intend.

Your foresight could ignite the torch for ambitious Vols from all walks of life. Contact the Office of Gift Planning at 865-974-3388 or giftplanning@utk.edu to start the conversation today.