Legendary optics leader James C. Wyant ’67 (MS), ’69 (PhD), ’21 (Honorary), 1943–2023

University of Rochester mourns the loss of a revered optics scholar, author, researcher, and entrepreneur

The University of Rochester and the global optics community are grieving the loss of James C. Wyant ’67 (MS), ’69 (PhD), ’21 (Honorary). A revered pioneer in the field of optics and a University life trustee, Wyant died on Friday, December 8, in Tucson, Arizona. His legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of the University of Rochester, where he earned his PhD in optics from the Institute of Optics, and later became a prominent figure in the optics industry and higher education.

“Jim had a consequential career in the field of optics, with roots right here at our Institute of Optics,” says Sarah C. Mangelsdorf, president and G. Robert Witmer, Jr. University Professor. “In addition to Jim’s many personal and professional successes, he was a very kind and thoughtful individual. We send our deepest condolences to his wife, Tammy, his son, Clair, and his extended optics family around the world. Jim leaves a very meaningful and lasting legacy.”

As a prolific scholar, Wyant authored numerous books and publications, held patents, and played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of optics scholars through his dedicated mentorship. He was also a visionary leader and philanthropist. In 2022, Wyant and his wife made a transformative gift to the institute, establishing a $12 million challenge fund.

The Wyant Challenge encourages fellow alumni, friends, and partners to contribute to the institute’s growth, research, and leadership in the field of optics. Their generosity will significantly increase faculty numbers by 50 percent by 2029, coinciding with the institute’s centennial. This gift is in addition to two professorships Wyant previously established at the institute.

Wyant was an actively engaged alumnus and scholar. Since 1973, he served as a visiting professor at the Institute of Optics and was a member of the University’s Board of Trustees, the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Science’s Dean’s Advisory Council, and Hajim’s Optics Blue Ribbon Panel. Wyant also received the Hajim School’s Distinguished Alumnus Award as well as an honorary doctorate of science from the University.

Tammy Wyant, Jim Wyant, and President Sarah Mangelsdorf

Beyond his commitment to Rochester, Wyant made a significant impact at the University of Arizona. Joining its faculty in 1974, he advised nearly 60 graduate students and became the founding dean and a professor emeritus of the College of Optical Sciences, now named the James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences.

As an entrepreneur, Wyant’s influence extended to the launch and direction of start-up companies such as WYKO Corporation and 4D Technology. He served as president and an active member of the Optical Society of America, now known as Optica, and the SPIE (International Society for Optical Engineering). Additionally, he was an elected member of the National Academy of Engineering and a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors.

Tom Brown, director of the Institute of Optics and a Mercer Brugler Distinguished Teaching Professor, remembers Wyant’s enthusiasm for the institute, highlighting his generosity, good humor, and genuine enjoyment of the optics community. Brown says, “Jim always wanted the best for the institute, not only as his alma mater but because he recognized the importance of a vibrant Institute of Optics within the larger world of optics. His contributions to optical engineering, his remarkable teaching abilities, and his enduring friendship have left an indelible mark on the institute and the optics community overall.”

Wendi Heinzelman, dean of the Hajim School, adds, “Jim was an exemplar of technical and business excellence who pioneered countless optical innovations and championed ideas, people, and scholarship. He was an advisor, a mentor, and a friend to so many and will be greatly missed.”

University flags on the Eastman Quadrangle and near the entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department will be lowered on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, for James C. Wyant.