Dr. Anthony F. Behof
Dr. Anthony F. Behof, Associate Professor Emeritus of Physics and Astrophysics, has been a cornerstone of the DePaul community for decades, both during his formal tenure and long after his retirement in 2007. A proud DePaul alumnus (BS Physics and Mathematics, Class of 1959), Tony’s dedication to the university's mission is unparalleled. Upon his retirement, he was awarded DePaul’s highest honor, the Via Sapientiae Award, a recognition of his extraordinary service and unwavering commitment to the institution. Yet, even in retirement, Tony continues to serve as a mentor, colleague, and invaluable resource to students and faculty alike, offering his time and expertise selflessly.
Tony's impact has been particularly profound in the areas of astronomy and experimental physics. His guidance has transformed the astrophysics program, helping students gain hands-on experience through projects like building a radio telescope to detect the 21 cm hydrogen line from the Milky Way. This hands-on project, guided by Tony, allowed the students to construct the telescope from scratch, including assembling the horn antenna and software to process the data. The emotional impact on the students was profound as they detected radio waves from tens of thousands of light years away with equipment they built with their own hands. The awe and excitement in observing something so distant, using a device they crafted, was a testament to Tony's ability to make complex concepts tangible and inspiring, which has inspired countless students to pursue advanced research and careers in the field. Tony’s involvement has ranged from acquiring telescopes and equipment to leading students in observational science, such as the recent solar eclipse observation trip to Olney, Illinois, which gave nearly 50 students the opportunity to witness and study a rare astronomical event. Tony helped the students not only observe the eclipse but also build a stronger connection to their future careers as scientists. His dedication to making opportunities like this possible reflects his deep care for both the students and the academic mission of DePaul. His passion for astrophysics has been infectious, creating memorable learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Beyond his contributions to astrophysics, Tony has also played a critical role in maintaining and restoring physics lab equipment, spearheading clean-up and reorganization efforts that have preserved valuable departmental resources. His generosity extends beyond his work in the lab; he consistently makes his personal astronomy and computer equipment available to students and faculty, exemplifying his dedication to fostering learning. Tony's selfless service and commitment to DePaul's academic mission reflect the very best of the university’s Vincentian values.