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Chemistry Alumnus Facilitates Hand Sanitizer Donation from Global Essence Inc. to University

Global Essence hand sanitizer donation
From left to right: Robert Zak, executive vice president, Global Essence, Inc.; Sean Grimes ’12, technical manager, quality assurance and regulatory affairs, Global Essence, Inc.; Steven Bachrach, Ph.D., dean, School of Science, Monmouth University

Monmouth University received a bulk donation of hand sanitizer from Global Essence Inc., thanks in part to the efforts of alumnus Sean Grimes ’12.

Grimes, a graduate of the chemistry department in the School of Science, is technical manager for quality assurance and regulatory affairs at Global Essence, a global supplier of raw materials in various industries. He recently worked to obtain FDA approval for Global Essence to temporarily produce hand sanitizer during the COVID-19 crisis, using >75% isopropyl alcohol as per World Health Organization recommendations.

The company has produced more than 1,000 gallons thus far and is donating the entire production to hospitals, police departments, universities, and other organizations in need. Monmouth University has received 200 gallons of Global Essence hand sanitizer to support health and safety measures as the university plans for a return to campus.

This is not the first time Global Essence has contributed to the university’s efforts. The company, which produces high-quality essential oils and organic flavor and fragrance products, funds The Global Essence Inc. Annual Scholarship in Chemistry and also supports the School of Science Summer Research Program (SRP).

“I’m a proud Hawk and happy to help give back to Monmouth whenever possible. Global Essence enjoys our partnership with the University, including hosting student interns and hiring graduates,” Grimes said.