Dr. Joseph A. Shaw Honored by the University of Arizona as 2025 Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences

The University of Arizona Alumni Association has announced Dr. Joseph A. Shaw as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. The Alumni of the Year luncheon will be hosted by the University on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

This prestigious distinction recognizes Dr. Joseph (Joe) Shaw for his extraordinary contributions to the field of optical sciences, spanning innovative research, educational leadership, and his role in fostering a thriving optics industry ecosystem in Montana. Shaw’s impactful career embodies the values and mission of the Wyant College of Optical Sciences, with achievements that have significantly advanced the field of optics and photonics.

“Joe Shaw’s many commitments to education and advancement of the optics field are both remarkable in scope and impressive in impact,” said Thomas L. Koch, dean and professor of the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. Koch continued saying, “Our nomination is motivated by the outstanding leadership of Joe as an ambassador for the optics field, a highly accomplished scientific researcher, the architect of a strong and thriving educational and commercial optics ecosystem in his home state of Montana, and as a supporter of the University of Arizona.”

Shaw earned his MS (1994) and PhD (1996) in Optical Sciences from the U of A. He is currently the Director of the Optical Technology Center (OpTeC) and Distinguished Professor in the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering at Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman, Montana. At MSU, his efforts include developing advanced degree programs in optics and supporting the creation of an undergraduate degree in the field. He leads groundbreaking research focused on developing field-deployable optical remote sensing instruments for environmental studies. His work has resulted in more than 340 publications, presentations and patents and significant research funding exceeding $50 million of funding from federal and industry partners.

Additionally, he played a pivotal role in Montana as the driving force behind the establishment of one of the highest per-capita concentrations of optics and photonics companies in the nation. This hub, represented by the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance, includes more than 40 regional companies with at least 1300 employees. Between his efforts at MSU and in industry, his leadership has been instrumental in cultivating a highly skilled workforce to meet the demands of the expanding optics and photonics industry.

Beyond his research and educational endeavors, Shaw is a Fellow of both SPIE and Optica, two of the foremost international societies for optics and photonics. His numerous accolades include the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the Vaisala Award from the World Meteorological Organization, and the G. G. Stokes Award for optical polarization from SPIE. His outreach work as a widely recognized expert in optical phenomena in nature, including his popular book Optics in the Air: Observing Optical Phenomena Through Airplane Windows, reflects his commitment to making optics accessible and inspiring to a broad audience.

Shaw’s dedication to the U of A remained steadfast throughout his career. He has been a sustained, strong supporter in the college’s Winter School and Workshop, where he has shared his expertise with undergraduates and faculty nationwide, encouraging students to pursue graduate studies in optics. His advocacy and mentorship have led many students to join the Wyant College of Optical Sciences, contributing to its legacy of excellence.

“Professor Joe Shaw has built upon the excellence he showed as a student in our graduate program to be recognized worldwide as a leader in optics research, education, and leadership. Second, and of immense importance to the College, Joe has been a constant friend to the college by helping to educate future optics generations, while also assisting in our recruiting of the next generation." said John Hayes, PhD, (OSC 1984) and chairman of the Wyant College of Optical Sciences Advisory Board.

Globally recognized for its leading teaching and research programs, the Wyant College of Optical Sciences is proud to honor Dr. Joseph A. Shaw as the U of A 2025 Alumnus of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. His achievements and enduring commitment to advancing the field of optical sciences are a testament to the brilliance and dedication of the college’s alumni.

About the Wyant College of Optical Sciences

The University of Arizona James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences (OSC) has been lighting the future since 1964 by providing an internationally pre-eminent program in all aspects of the study of light.  OSC offers a diverse student body, challenging courses, pioneering research programs with award-winning faculty, and close relationships with the optics industry. For more information, please visit www.optics.arizona.edu.