Second Annual UArizona Museum Day

The second annual UArizona Museum Day, held on March 29, 2025, was a fantastic success for all campus museums! The Wyant College of Optical Sciences welcomed visitors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering an engaging experience filled with hands-on STEM demonstrations led by Prof. Daewook Kim and dedicated volunteers. Guests were invited to explore the wonders of optics through a self-guided tour of the building’s curated exhibits, honoring the legacy of the museum’s namesake, the late Prof. Emeritus John E. Greivenkamp.

Learn more about the John E. Greivenkamp Museum of Optics

The second annual Museum Open Day, held in conjunction with Laser Fun Day on March 29, 2025, was a tremendous success, welcoming more than 300 guests to the Wyant College of Optical Sciences for a day filled with discovery, inspiration, and fun. Now in its second year, this growing tradition has become a cornerstone of the college’s community outreach efforts, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of optics and photonics.

Throughout the day, attendees explored the Greivenkamp Museum of Optics, engaging with exhibits that illuminate the science and history behind optical technologies. Visitors were also treated to hands-on demonstrations and warm hospitality from a dedicated team of student volunteers who brought the museum to life with their knowledge and passion for STEM education.

We are deeply grateful to the outstanding students who gave their time and energy to make the event a success: Khawlah Al Yahyaei, Calliope Casey, Michael Sunwoo Lee, Diego Sharrar, Jonathan Mack, John Keleman, Cole Ryder Tsingine, and Jacob Isaac Vider. Their enthusiasm and professionalism reflected the best of the Wyant College community. A special thank-you also goes to Dr. Vipender Negi, whose contributions as a postdoctoral scholar added tremendous value to the day’s programming.

This year’s event was especially notable thanks to Hillary Mathis’ innovative idea to pair Museum Open Day with Laser Fun Day, creating a dynamic and interactive experience that resonated with guests of all ages. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Kay Greivenkamp for her continued advocacy and support of the museum. Kay Rowan and friends were the very first visitors through the doors—setting a welcoming and enthusiastic tone for the day. Her recent efforts to establish sustainable funding through the UA Foundation ensure that the museum can continue to thrive for years to come.

Thanks to the commitment of our students, faculty, staff, and supporters, the Greivenkamp Museum of Optics continues to grow as a hub for science education and community engagement. We look forward to building on this momentum and welcoming even more curious minds in the years ahead.

see full list of participating museums