Stephanie Burns

Burns, the daughter of an English and history professor father, and a real estate agent mother, was born in Torrington, Wyoming. She graduated with a bachelor's degree from Florida International University in Miami, and earned a doctorate in organic chemistry at Iowa State University,[1] before commencing post-doctoral studies at the University of Montpellier in France.[2]

Burns joined Dow Corning in 1982[3] in France as a researcher and specialist in organosilicon chemistry, which is the study into compounds made of carbon and silicon.[1] She conducted much work into silicones, exploring new ways to make heat-resistant rubber, and is credited with inventing a new silicon-containing polymer, for which she holds a patent.[1] She gradually worked her way into corporate management at Dow Corning, and in 1994 she was appointed director of Women's Health and was part of the Chapter 11 management team.[4] In 1997, she moved to Brussels, after being appointed Science and Technology Director for Europe.[2]

Upon her return to the United States in 2000, Burns was appointed executive vice president of the firm, and three years later became its president, the first woman to do so.[1] She served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dow Corning, from February 2003 until her retirement on 31 December 2011.[2] She also served as its Chief Operating Officer from January 2004, and as Chairman from January 2006, until her retirement,[2] replacing Gary E. Anderson.[5]

Burns has also served as honorary president of the Society of Chemical Industry,[6] as chairwoman of the American Chemistry Council, and on numerous boards, including those of the Michigan Molecular Institute and the Society for Women's Health Research.[2]