Each year, the University of Arizona and the U of A 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.
2026 Alumnus of the Year: Janet S. Fender, PhD 1981
The University of Arizona Alumni Association has announced Dr. Dr. Janet S. Fender as the 2026 Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. Janet S. Fender earned her PhD in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona as part of the Class of 1981. A distinguished scientist in the U.S. Air Force, she has led groundbreaking advancements in imaging, space surveillance, and directed energy.
Her career includes serving as scientific adviser to the Commander of Air Combat Command and holding key research roles at the Air Force Research Laboratory. Internationally recognized for her contributions, she has authored over 100 publications, holds multiple patents, and received the U.S. Presidential Distinguished Service Rank Award. Read more about Janet S. Fender.
Archives
- 2025: Joseph A. Shaw, PhD 1996
- 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, send inquiries to communications@optics.arizona.edu. If you would like to donate to the college please find how to Make a Gift, here.
Giving Inquiries: giving@optics.arizona.edu
To discuss a gift, please contact Ember Goldstein, Director of Development, at embergoldstein@arizona.edu