Dr. Stangeby is an
internationally recognized physicist who worked for more than 40 years in the
University of Toronto’s engineering department. The retired professor, who
earned his doctorate in plasma physics at Oxford University, was honoured for
his work as a leading authority on most aspects of the boundary physics of
magnetic fusion energy research devices. He has had a profound influence on the
field of fusion energy both through his own scientific work and through
inspiring and mentoring the next generation of researchers in the
field.
In accepting the honour,
Stangeby did not discuss his academic or professional accomplishments. Instead,
he spoke of the joy he experienced as a student at BCI – such as his numbered
days as a gangly youth on the football field, on stage with the drama club, and
other childhood memories.
He implored students gathered
at the ceremony to live in the moment and appreciate their time at
BCI.
During an interview after the
ceremony, he said he was honoured to receive recognition from the school, noting
his days at BCI were some of the happiest of his
life.
“University was like a cold
shower,” he said. “I have unrealistically fond and sentimental thoughts of my
days at BCI. It is glorious to get this
recognition.”