Stony Brook University recently hosted an event to honor Jim Simons, a renowned mathematician and philanthropist. The gathering took place on October 23 at the Simons Center Auditorium and highlighted his significant contributions to the university and the fields of mathematics and physics.
The event featured three panel discussions that explored Simons' long-standing connection with Stony Brook, which lasted over six decades. Additionally, four short lectures were presented on his scientific achievements and philanthropic impact, particularly in relation to Stony Brook Medicine.
“Jim Simons’ devotion to Stony Brook was vast and strong,” stated Richard McCormick, the Interim President of Stony Brook University. He added, “We will all continue to benefit from Jim’s wisdom, leadership and extraordinary generosity for generations to come. His legacy will prevail as long as this university exists.”
George Sterman, director of the C.N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics, moderated a panel discussion on Simons’ philanthropic efforts in mathematics and physics. He noted, “Among his many talents, Jim Simons was a gifted builder of teams. One of the goals of this event is to tell the story of how Jim saw enduring collaborative potential at Stony Brook.” Sterman further explained how Simons' donations and personal involvement helped foster an interdisciplinary culture in these fields at the university.
Simons' influence extended beyond academics; he played a pivotal role in establishing the Simons Center for Geometry and Physics through strategic philanthropy. According to Sterman, “Its establishment and early successes can be thought of as a prelude to Jim and Marilyn’s historic campus-wide donations.”
For more details about this tribute event, readers are directed to Christine McGrath's full story on SB Matters.