The University of Missouri Rolla's UMR Coatings Institute recently honored James Stoffer with the UMR Coatings Institute Distinguished Scientist Award, given to individuals "who have benefited the coatings field through outstanding research, educational efforts and service." Stoffer is the third recipient of the award, which was presented by Michael Van De Mark, director of the UMR Coatings Institute and Industrial Paint & Powder columnist.
Stoffer, known nationally for his work in polymer and coatings chemistry, joined the faculty of the former Missouri School of Mines in 1963. He directed the UMR Paint Short Course Program from 1985 to 1987, and was director of the Materials Research Center from 1992 to 2001.