Hydroxyamides are synthesized from esters. A process of making hydroxyalkyl amides comprises: reacting an ester with a hydroxyalkyl amine having the formula H
2
N—R
3
—OH wherein R
3
is a substituted or unsubstituted C2 to C5 alkyl, in the presence of a catalyst in an anhydrous solution to form the hydroxyalkyl amides. Monomers suitable for formation of polymeric articles can utilize these hydroxyamides.