Michael Pollard, a chemistry professor in the Faculty of Science & Engineering, died suddenly of an aneurysm on Saturday, Feb. 27, in Toronto. He was just 36.
Left: Professor Michael M. Pollard
In Prof. Pollard’s honour, York’s flag will be lowered to half-mast at sunrise on Friday, March 5, until sunset on Saturday, March 6.
Although he was the Department of Chemistry’s most recent addition, joining the faculty in July 2008, Prof. Pollard had quickly become an integral part of the York community with substantial contributions to teaching, research and department life.
He was passionate about all his undertakings, from scientific inquiry to rock climbing, and possessed a natural curiosity that extended well beyond his chosen field.
A native of Ottawa, Ont., Prof. Pollard attended Queen’s University in Kingston, Ont., where he obtained an honours bachelor of science degree. He earned his PhD from the University of Alberta and conducted research at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands as a post-doctoral fellow and research assistant.
In his independent work at York University, Prof. Pollard had developed a promising research program in advanced organic materials with a focus on green energy. His ultimate goal was to develop an organic solar cell that could be painted on, effectively allowing us to harness energy from almost any surface.
Visitations for Prof. Pollard will be held on Friday, March 5, from 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm, and Saturday, March 6, from 2 to 4pm, at the Kelly Funeral Home, 580 Eagleson Rd., Kanata, Ont., telephone 613-591-6580. A funeral service for Prof. Pollard will take place on Saturday at 4pm. A reception will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the David Suzuki Foundation or Greenpeace Canada would be appreciated.