RIT mourns the loss of Trustee Eric Kuckhoff

RIT is mourning the loss of Trustee Eric Kuckhoff, who died March 1. The RIT flag will be lowered in his honor on March 5.

Mr. Kuckhoff, founder of specialty chemical company Polystar LLC and a 1984 graduate of RIT’s master’s in chemistry program, was appointed to the RIT Board of Trustees in 2015, and re-elected to the board in 2019. Mr. Kuckhoff also served as president of RIT’s Alumni Association.

During his board service, he participated on various committees including University Relations, Student Life, Development, Conflicts of Interest, Enterprise Risk Management, Strategic Planning, and the Venture Creations Board.

In recognition of his professional and volunteer achievements, Mr. Kuckhoff received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Science in 2016. He and his wife, Barbara, have been consistent RIT donors, contributing significantly to several university priorities including the College of Science General Fund, the Joseph M. Lobozzo Alumni House, and the Barbara and Eric Kuckhoff Endowed Scholarship. This fund, established in 2020, provides scholarship assistance to students majoring in chemistry or chemical engineering.

Mr. Kuckhoff’s obituary stated that “in the world of chemistry, where the entrepreneurial spirit is key, Eric’s character and credibility built the kind of relationships that fostered deep friendships and mutual success. Throughout his journey, Eric lived truly, loved unapologetically, and lifted those around him to rise above their aspirations.”

RIT President David Munson said the RIT community has experienced a great loss. “All of us at RIT are impacted by Eric’s untimely passing. Eric was a conscientious, dedicated volunteer and donor for many years and will be sorely missed. We are proud that his legacy will live on through the endowed scholarship that he and his wife created in support of our students. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Mr. Kuckhoff is survived by his wife, Barbara; mother, Doris; brother, Stephen; and his children Robert, Katherine, and Thomas (Sara).

Mr. Kuckhoff will be honored at noon on Saturday, March 5, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Rome, Georgia. A graveside service will also be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 11, at Woodlawn Cemetery, 800 Grant Blvd., Syracuse, N.Y. Following the graveside service, a reception will be held at The Sherwood Inn, 26 W. Genesee St., Skaneateles, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Barbara and Eric Kuckhoff Endowed Scholarship at Rochester Institute of Technology, University Advancement, P.O. Box 92765, Rochester, N.Y. 14692-8865.