alice ball | University of Hawaiʻi System News

In memoriam: Paul Wermager, dedicated science librarian, Alice Ball champion

For nearly four decades, Paul Wermager worked to ensure that Alice Ball’s story would not disappear again.

The American Chemical Society honored Ball’s groundbreaking treatment for Hansen’s disease at the annual Alice Augusta Ball recognition ceremony.

UH celebrated Alice Augusta Ball Day on February 28, 2025.

In 1915, Ball became the first African-American and woman to graduate from both UH Mānoa and the U.S. with a master’s degree in chemistry.

Many of the details about Alice Ball’s story came through research from former UH librarian Paul Wermager.

Alice Augusta Ball discovering an injectable form of oil which became an effective treatment for Hansen’s disease (leprosy).

Master Gardeners, with the support of the UH Campus Arboretum, have cared for a chaulmoogra tree planted in honor of Alice Ball.

The Alice Ball scholarship provides support for College of Natural Sciences students.

Gov. David Ige signed a proclamation that declared February 28 to be “Alice Augusta Ball Day” in Hawaiʻi to commemorate her remarkable legacy.

Four of the recipients share how the Alice Augusta Ball Endowed Scholarship has impacted them.