Dr. Gary Ozanich's long and distinguished career has taken him all over the country - from Washington to Wall Street, and now to UB.
Ozanich received his bachelor's in zoology from Michigan State University, where he also studied broadcasting. It was his work in this area that prompted his interest in communication, especially new technologies. He continued his education at Michigan State, earning a graduate degree in telecommunications.
At the University of Wisconsin at Madison, Ozanich did doctorate work in his major area of interest, mass communication.
"I came to the realization that new technology was going to dramatically change the way communication is accomplished," said Ozanich.
While working on Wall Street, which he did for about a decade, Ozanich never strayed from what he loved most - new technology. Ozanich always worked with the latest technology, furthering his education on the subject that had captivated him while he was in school.
"My major reason for joining the private sector was that new technologies which were being produced were very exciting," said Ozanich.
While working in private business, Ozanich worked with Ace Greenberg, CEO of Bear Stearns, whom he considers a hero.
"I really admired his 'take no prisoners' managerial style," said Ozanich
After many years in an explosive era on Wall Street, Ozanich called it quits. Between working at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette, where he served as the vice president of the high yield bond group, to his position at Bear Stearns, where he was an associate director in the fixed income department, Ozanich had had enough.
"Wall Street just burnt me out," he said. "What happened was that my wife took a job at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute. I came to Buffalo as a trailing spouse."
Since beginning his teaching career at UB, Ozanich has been involved in helping the new School of Informatics receive grants, and he has been a large contributor to the development of the new graduate degree in informatics.
"What I love most about my job are the students," said Ozanich. "I do this job because I choose to, not because I have to."
His students do not overlook Ozanich's dedication and love for his job.
"I really enjoy Dr. Ozanich's class a lot. He really looks like he enjoys what he is talking about," said senior communication major Justin Fuld. "It makes me feel like a better student when I enjoy the material being taught."
His dedication to his students is demonstrated by the ease and comfort he shows his students in all capacities.
"His door is always open, and he loves talking to his students," said Jason Miller, a senior communication major. "I think he makes people feel comfortable, which in turn makes for a much better student-teacher relationship."
Ozanich is currently conducting his research at UB, where he is focusing on wireless technologies.
"Right now I am looking into the economics of new wireless applications such as instant messaging on cellular telephones," said Ozanich.
After three decades of hard work and dedication, Ozanich has found a home in Buffalo. His calm and friendly demeanor, as well as his insatiable thirst for knowledge and love for teaching, have made his presence at UB invaluable.
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
