Philip M. Anderson Memorial Endowment
Philip M. Anderson III, Ph.D. a professor of Physics, joined the faculty of Ramapo College in 1990. He received a B.S. in Physics from Widener University and an M.S.E.E., Ph.D. from Drexel University. Dr. Anderson passed away on September 9, 2024.
His research focused on amorphous metals, magnetoelastic phenomena, and invention. Professor Anderson has more than 100 patents worldwide and 37 U.S. patents. In 2001 he was selected as a New Jersey Inventor of the Year and was honored at an annual Hall of Fame awards ceremony. He is credited with inventing a component of an electronic surveillance system that helps to prevent theft and shoplifting — the ubiquitous white plastic security tags hanging from garments in stores.
Dr. Anderson’s father felt strongly that Phil should attend college, and in fact, Phil was the first in his family to earn his degree. He thrived at Widener University, and wanted to give Ramapo students the same opportunities that were afforded to him. He established this scholarship in memory of his father (pictured) for students enrolled in the Engineering Physics major.