Reginald Ohlson

Class of 2007

Born in London on November 24, 1929, Reg graduated from Slough H.S. and between 1948 and 1950 served as asergeant in the Royal Corps of Signals.

Reg received a bachelor’s degree in Botany from London University in 1956 and completed research on plant physiology for his Ph.D. in 1965 at King’s College, London University.

He married June in December 1961, and together they raised Wendy, Barry and Debby.

Following six years as a lab technician at Glaxo Laboratories, Reg began his candy career as a research scientist in 1956 at Mars Ltd. in the UK. In 1959, he moved to the U.S. to work at the company’s New Jersey facility. He was transferred to the Mars Holland operation in 1965 for six years before returning to the U.S.

In 1971 he returned to the company’s McLean, VA, facility and was named vice-president of research and development. In 1990 he became vice-president of scientific affairs, a position he held until 1999 when he formed Reg Ohlson Consulting.

Reg’s accolades include recognition from the American Cocoa Research Institute, the Brazilian, Chocolate, Cocoa and Confectionery Manufacturers Association, the International Life Sciences Institute and the International Office of Cocoa, Chocolate and Sugar Confectionery. He was awarded the 51st Stroud Jordan Award from the American Association of Candy Technologists in 2002 and the National Confectioners Association Distinguished Service Award in 2005. In 1991 he was honored by the Chocolate Manufacturers Association for 30 years of distinguished service.

Away from work, Reg has served as president of the Arlington Senior Golf Club and the McLean Hunt Homeowners Association.

He played field hockey at the international level, and still enjoys golfing and cycling, as well as cruises and attending the theater.