Establishment of John E. Greivenkamp Museum of Optics Endowment, Now Accepting Donations to Support Collection of Historical Optics

The Wyant College of Optical Sciences is pleased to announce the establishment of the John E. Greivenkamp Museum of Optics Endowment by the Greivenkamp family. This endowment will support the Greivenkamp Museum of Optics, located at the Wyant College of Optical Sciences in Tucson, AZ. The museum is open regular business hours, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and features a distinguished collection of antique and historic telescopes, microscopes, lenses, and cameras. These remarkable instruments, crafted by world-renowned makers from the 18th century to today, reflect the vast progress in the field of optics.

The museum is named in honor of the late John E. Greivenkamp, a beloved emeritus professor who made significant contributions in both optical sciences research and education throughout his life. In addition to his legacy as a researcher, mentor and leader in optics, Greivenkamp was passionate about preserving the history of optics. Through generous donations, Greivenkamp spearheaded the initial creation of the museum’s collection in 2003 and pursued its management and growth throughout his life. He used many of these artifacts in his teaching, inspiring students to appreciate the historical advancements and innovative growth in the field.

To contribute to this endowment donations may be made through the University of Arizona Foundation by designating the donation for the “Greivenkamp Museum of Optics Endowment.”  These donations will promote the continuation of John’s vision of recognizing and sharing the rich history of optics while ensuring that future generations of students and the public can explore and learn from this rich collection of unique optics.