WASHINGTON -Optica, the society advancing optics and photonics worldwide, and the University of Arizona James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences today announced the establishment of The Jean M. Bennett Optica Endowed Chair. Through the endowment of a chair, Optica has partnered with James C. Wyant to support the faculty at the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. The announcement marks the first time a chair at the Wyant College of Optical Sciences has been named in honor of a woman scientist.
"Dr. Bennet was an exceptional scientist, scholar and educator who made many contributions to the field of optics and our organization. Her impactful legacy will continue in our community through The Jean M. Bennett Optica Endowed Chair."
CEO of Optica, Elizabeth Rogan
"With Optica's donation and the contribution from the Distinguished Endowed Chair in Optical Sciences Fund, the Wyant College of Optical Sciences will provide tomorrow's optics students with amazing research leaders and mentors. We are especially excited to establish a chair in honor of an exceptional woman in optics."
Dean of Wyant College, Thomas L. Koch
"Early in my undergraduate studies, I read the story about the research of Jean and Hal Bennett. I was fascinated by their research of optical surfaces. Their research helped to inform my decision to pursue a graduate degree in optics. How lucky I was."
College of Optical Sciences Founding Dean and Professor Emeritus, James C. Wyant
