Each year, the University of Arizona and UA Alumni Association honors selected academic college and center alumni in recognition of their note-worthy contributions to their careers, communities and colleges.
Introducing the University of Arizona Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences.
2024 Alumnus of the Year: Kent Rochford, PhD 1990
The University of Arizona Alumni Association has announced Dr. Kent Rochford as the 2024 Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. Dr. Rochford earned his MS (1988) and PhD (1990) in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer for SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics in Bellingham, WA, he leads the professional association’s mission to advance emerging technologies through interdisciplinary information exchange, technical conferences and exhibitions, continuing education, publications, and career and professional growth. The prestigious distinction recognizes Dr. Rochford for his exceptional contributions to the field of optics, encompassing both technical and leadership contributions. His illustrious career has included high-impact executive roles, both in major federal laboratories and professional societies, where he passionately advocated for scientific research and education. Read more about Dr. Kent Rochford.
Archives
- 2024: Kent Rochford, PhD 1990
- 2023: John Greivenkamp, PhD 1980
- 2021: Jack Jewell, PhD 1984
- 2019: Jannick Rolland-Thompson, PhD 1990
- 2018: James W. Mayo, MS 1968
- 2017: Sean McCafferty, MS 2015
- 2016: Robert R. Boye, PhD 2000
- 2015: Kevin P. (Rolland-)Thompson, PhD 1980
- 2014: Jacobus (Jim) Oschmann, MS 1983
- 2013: Eustace L. Dereniak, PhD 1976
- 2012: Kyle J. Myers, PhD 1985
- 2011: Kenneth E. Moore, PhD 1991
- 2010: John B. Hayes, PhD 1984
- 2006: Lawrence A. Johnson, PhD 1981
For questions about giving to the college, please contact Kaye Rowan, executive director of development, at rowan@optics.arizona.edu or 520-626-8754.