He is the founding dean of the University of Arizona's College of Optical Sciences. He was elected president of the OSA and the SPIE

two of the most respected international academic organizations in the world of optics. He is the founder or co-founder of multiple hi-tech companies. He is Prof. James C. Wyant. Professor Wyant is many things: master of optics

entrepreneur

and philanthropist

but above all

he is one of those rare lucky people who see their childhood dreams come true. He is the hardworking scientist who pushes optical science to the limit. He is the successful entrepreneur whose Midas touch turns research achievements into lucrative commercial projects. He is the generous philanthropist who has given a large fortune to help promote the development of optical science. He is the avid athlete who enjoys the outdoors and takes pleasure in hiking and running. From tender memories to cutting-edge research and hard-nosed business advice

Prof. Wyant will share with us how he became fascinated with optics and what he thinks about academic life and organizations.