A Ph.D. chemist who became the public face of the world's largest furry convention.

History · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Samuel Conway balances a professional life in pharmaceutical research with his role as chairman of Anthrocon. Known to fans as Uncle Kage, he has transformed the convention into a massive, organized event while navigating the complexities of media scrutiny and public perception surrounding the furry community for over two decades.

Samuel Conway holds a Ph.D. in chemistry from Dartmouth College, earned in 1991. His scientific career has spanned roles as a medicinal chemist, regulatory researcher, and contractor for the Food and Drug Administration. Beyond the laboratory, he has authored eleven professional publications and holds two patents, including one for compounds designed to treat hepatitis B.

In 1999, Conway became the chairman of Anthrocon, a position he has held ever since. Under his guidance, the convention grew from an attendance of 842 in 1999 to over 3,000 by 2008, necessitating a move from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. He manages the event's public relations, finances, and hotel negotiations, often acting as the primary spokesperson for the organization.

Conway is also recognized as Furrydom's Storyteller, performing annual anecdotes at conventions. His influence extends to philanthropy; he has presided over auctions that raised over $66,000 for wildlife charities. Additionally, in 1990, he served as an experimental bone marrow donor for a child with Hunter syndrome, marking a pioneering medical case involving an unrelated donor.

His approach to media relations has evolved significantly. Initially, he discouraged members from engaging with the press to avoid sensationalism. However, following the move to Pittsburgh in 2006, he adopted a more open, albeit strictly controlled, policy toward local news outlets. He remains a central figure in the fandom, balancing his identity as a scientist with his role as a community leader.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

• The chemist who built a beauty empire while financing a radical terrorist group
• The Australian veterinary scientist who became the architect of a national scientific boom
• How a self-described mediocre student became the architect of the human genome map.
• How a zoologist transformed the Metropolitan Museum's collection of arms and armor
• The manufactured myth of the dog-faced boy who captivated the nineteenth-century world
• The woman who turned British mythology into a global fantasy epic
• How a small beach bonfire became a global cultural phenomenon under Larry Harvey
• Why the horror community thrives on the shared love of the unknown
• The man who turned American history into a cinematic experience
• The evolution of horror fandom through dedicated conventions
• The digital fortress built on a disagreement over adult content
• Forrest J Ackerman: The Man Who Invented Science Fiction Fandom and Coined Sci-Fi

More in Fandom, conventions and festivals · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics