University Award for Excellence in Teaching
John R. Brandenberger, 1995
"Lawrence is fortunate that Goethe's last words were, 'Light, More Light,' and not 'Light Amplification by Stimulated Emissions of Radiation.' We would never have been able to fit those words on the university crest. But that might be the motto of a very important part of the curriculum in the Department of Physics you now chair. And if in an atypical fit of modesty you did not, in fact, propose engraving it in the stone facade of Youngchild Hall, the garish sign that greets all who enter the LASER Palace you created will have to suffice.
A nationally distinguished researcher in atomic physics, spectroscopy, and, of course, in laser science, you have brought honor and recognition to Lawrence for more than a quarter of a century. Your papers and presentations have advanced science importantly, but it has been your enthusiastic embrace of your students as scientific colleagues that has most distinguished your teaching. Their records at and after Lawrence are eloquent testimony to your lifelong influence, which has led them to nurture or discover their own abilities as scientists. Even those who have never pursued physics beyond your courses recall with affection and gratitude the rigor of your classes and your contributions to their intellectual growth.
Indeed, you embody the synergy of scholarship and teaching that is the vital essence of liberal education, and you bring to your calling an energy only your own lasers might approximate. Some of your colleagues might still recall you as a young whippersnapper: all of your colleagues regard you now as a mature one. Your drive for excellence in yourself, your students, your department, and your college is tireless, and it has been rewarded with an array of grants and awards in which you and we must take undiluted pride.
In recognition of your consistent and conspicuous contributions to Lawrence, and particularly of your extraordinary record of encouragement and mentoring of its students, the university is proud to present to you the Excellence in Teaching Award for 1995."