Benjamin Silliman, Yale Class of 1796, (1779-1864) was one of America’s pioneers in science. He became Yale’s first science professor, teaching chemistry and natural history. He played a leading role in the foundation of the Yale Medical School, the Peabody Museum, and the American Journal of Science, a scientific periodical still published today. In 1852, Silliman was instrumental in the founding of the Yale School of Engineering. Yale honored him by naming this residential college after him. Silliman is the largest college at Yale, occupying a full city block. Silliman’s courtyard alternates as an informal athletic field, a site for college festivities and a place for quiet repose. Over one hundred members of the faculty, staff and administration are Fellows of Silliman, and they are invited to eat in the college dining hall and to participate in college activities. The aim is to promote interchange between faculty and students.