Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society

EDWARD ELLERY: A TributeAuthor(s): C. E. McClungSource: Sigma Xi Quarterly, Vol. 28, No. 3, ELLERY NUMBER (AUTUMN, 1940), p. 97Published by: Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research SocietyStable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/23049113 .

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EDWARD ELLERY

A Tribute

by

C. E. McClung

Constructive work successfully done is a reward sufficient in itself; and the

plain objective record of developments and accomplishments in the history of

Sigma Xi during' the last eighteen years is a full recompense to our retiring

Secretary for all his efforts in its behalf. He would not, himself, ask for more,

but, at the same time, it is good for those who have been served to pause in

appreciation of the efforts of the burden bearers. An additional reason for

recording personal achievements is that they become part of a movement whose

future course may be, indeed must be, determined, in large measure, by such

past events. For these reasons, or even without any reason except the pleasure it gives the friends of Edward Ellery to state the satisfaction they have had in

his services to Sigma Xi as its National Secretary, it is desired to make here a

permanent record of their appreciation of him and his work.

Material evidences of his accomplishments have been regularly published in

the archives of the Society. There one may read of the numerical increase in

chapters and in members, of lectures promoted, of research grants made and of all the helpful aids to more and better research which have been carried out, in

large measure, through the Secretary's office. But only those who have been

privileged to work intimately with Dr. Ellery can know the amount and degree of self-sacrificing devotion, of sympathy and good judgment which he has brought to bear upon the execution of plans which seem to develop without effort, so care

fully and well have they been formulated and executed. After all, the material

evidence of such successful operations is only the visible indication of a more

fundamental achievement—the growth of a spirit of altruistic, cooperative effort

toward gaining and applying new knowledge to better living. In so large and loosely knit an organization as Sigma Xi such a spiritual

development must stem largely from its leaders and. particularly, from its most active executive officer. Necessary rules, too rigidly applied, can do much

to limit the outlook and influence of an organization. Dr. Ellery, although out

wardly observant of all regulations, sought always such interpretations as would best preserve human values. His kindness and consideration were inexhaustible, and he lays down the cares of his office, secure in the esteem and affection of a

multitude of friends. So long as Sigma Xi can command the services of such

devoted officers it will continue to play a worthy part in the development of

science and scientists. It is indeed fortunate in being able to retain, for a time

longer, Dr. Ellery's participation in its affairs in the less strenuous office of

President. His interest the Society will always have.

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