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Andrews Man - wma (Ronald Knott)

Notwithstanding the high quality and notable productivity of his research in theoretical atomic physics, Mickey Kutzner’s highest aspiration has been to be a good teacher, particularly for pre-med students. He has deliberately expended great effort in making physics accessible to all and in bringing a sense of reassurance and pleasure to the innate rigor of the material. In his office, students hunker daily on his comfy couch, getting individual help on a class or research. His engaging smile consistently communicates personal joy in an exciting world of observation and ideas and the possibilities and pleasures of understanding them. His success has nurtured the growth of the General Physics from 40 to 50 students to 116 last fall.

Long before PowerPoint came on the scene, Mickey prepared his lectures in ToolBook to make it easier for his students to assimilate class material. Year by year, he continues to use and develop physics demonstrations not only to illustrate material, but also to add an aesthetic or humorous twist. Who can forget the tension just before he wields a sledge hammer and crushes a concrete block set on a bed of nails on the chest of Bob Kingman or trusted (or trusting) TA?

But without compromising educational and professional rigor, he gives priority to spiritual, family, and social dimensions. He brings out his guitar every Chapel Choice Tuesday to lead jam sessions in the physics department. At the Youth Fair, you’ll find him with his wife and kids and his horses. You’ll also regularly find him on stage with the University Orchestra, with a trombone quartet, or yodeling with his family -- or on his porch presiding over his gas grill for pool or barn parties he hosts at home for students – or carving his next violin or cello. What a role model for students and colleagues alike! Thank you, Mickey.