A Conversation with Professor Stephen Tsai on ASC Founding
By Navid Zobeiry, Communications Editor, American Society for Composites, Last updated: May 6, 2025
As part of commemorating the 40th anniversary of ASC, a short interview was conducted with Professor Stephen Tsai, about the formation of the society.
The original incorporation document, dated January 15, 1985, lists five trustees:
- James M. Whitney (first ASC President)
- Charles E. Browning (first Vice President of the Society and Chair of the first ASC Conference)
- Som R. Soni (first Secretary & Treasurer of the Society)
- Nicholas J. Pagano
- Stephen W. Tsai
In the interview, Professor Tsai shared his recollections of how James Whitney first proposed the idea of establishing a dedicated society for composites, and how he, along with the others, supported and helped bring that vision to life.
This recording offers valuable historical insights into the early foundation of ASC and celebrates the visionaries who shaped the Society.
The interview can be viewed below: