John Karlem "Ducky" Riess (1913-2005) served as professor of physics at Tulane University (1943-1978), faculty advisor to the fraternity system, and professor emeritus. Born in New Orleans, Riess graduated from Tulane University with his B.S. in Chemistry in 1933, and M.S. in Mathematics in 1935. He received a Ph.D. in Physics from Brown University in 1943. He won numerous awards and actively participated in many fraternal and academic organizations throughout his long career, including Phi Kappa Sigma, ODK, and Phi Beta Kappa. Professor Riess died in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The Alpha of Louisiana Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa has named an annual award, given to the most outstanding new inductee, in his honor.
From the description of John Karlem Riess papers, 1866-2002 (bulk 1920s-1990s) (Tulane University). WorldCat record id: 430215319
