Leadership Transition in the Department of Physics
The Department of Physics is pleased to share an important leadership transition taking place this semester, one that reflects both continuity and forward momentum within our community.
Prof. Brian LeRoy Steps into College Leadership
Since the start of this semester, Prof. Brian LeRoy has taken on a new college leadership role as the Interim Associate Dean for Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs.
Since becoming Associate Department Head in Fall 2023, Brian has been an indispensable pillar of our department leadership team. His working style has been marked by a rare combination of meticulous attention to detail, a calm demeanor, and an impressively rapid response to the needs of our department.
- Undergraduate Innovation - Brian played a pivotal role in launching the Physics Studio classes. He not only taught the pilot course but also led the first large-scale rollout to hundreds of students. His dedication to pedagogy earned him the 2025 College of Science Innovation in Teaching Award.
- Graduate Excellence - Drawing from his previous experience as the Director of Graduate Studies, Brian navigated the complexities of graduate education with expertise and empathy.
- Operations & Budget Support - His deep understanding of enrollment patterns, curriculum structure, and departmental operations has provided tremendous support to the department, helping ensure smooth functioning of our daily activities.
Although Brian will continue his world-class research program, his new Associate Dean role will take him away from classroom teaching, and occasionally away from the department. Still, we expect to see him frequently, as the last several weeks have already shown.
It is truly a mix of emotions to see Brian step into this new position. While his thoroughness and vision will undoubtedly make him an exceptional Associate Dean, his transition represents a significant loss for the department.
Welcoming Prof. Koen Visscher as Interim Associate Department Head
As we begin a new semester, the department is thrilled to officially welcome Prof. Koen Visscher into his new role as the new Interim Associate Department Head.
Koen is a familiar face to many and a dedicated member of our faculty who has already contributed significantly to student success. For those who have worked alongside Koen, you know he brings a specific kind of energy to the table—one that combines high-level physics expertise with a refreshing, no-nonsense approach to leadership. His philosophy is simple: less "bullshit," more results.
- A “Get It Done” Mentality - Koen is known for his radical efficiency. Whether managing logistics or tackling administrative challenges, he moves with a speed and pragmatism that the entire leadership team appreciates.
- Career Advocacy - He remains a fierce advocate for our students’ futures. His successful workshops for non-academic career paths have already helped many of our graduates bridge the gap between the lab and the real world workforce.
- The Visscher Wit - Beyond strategy meetings and administrative work, Koen brings a dry, sharp, and impeccably timed sense of humor that lightens even the busiest days.
We are confident that Koen’s straightforward style and commitment to excellence will keep the department moving forward at a high velocity.
Looking Ahead
Please join us in thanking Brian for his tireless service and congratulating both Brian and Koen on their new appointments. We are excited for this next chapter in the department’s growth.