Kettering University recognizes Ron Kumon, Associate Professor of Physics, for his election as national president of the Society of Physics Students (SPS), a position he will hold for a two-year term through 2027. In this national leadership role, Kumon serves on the joint Executive Committee for SPS and Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society, and also serves as president of the SPS National Council.
The council serves as the governing body for both organizations and is composed of 18 students and 18 physics professionals, representing SPS’s 18 geographic zones. Together, the council evaluates policy, advances new initiatives, and shapes the future direction of physics and astronomy education nationwide.
On his new role, Dr. Kumon said:
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the community of students in the 800+ chapters in the US and beyond. I look forward to maintaining and enhancing the benefits that SPS provides to its members, including scholarships, internships, leadership development, and networking opportunities. I also plan to advocate for strengthening physics and astronomy programs everywhere so that students can continue to achieve their goals to be professionals in these disciplines.”
Kumon has served as the SPS and Sigma Pi Sigma chapter advisor at Kettering University for 14 years. During that time, the Kettering chapter has earned:
14 Outstanding Chapter Awards
10 Distinguished Chapter Awards
2 Chapter Research Awards
1 Blake Lilly Award, which honors SPS chapters or members who excel in physics outreach to K–12 students and the public.
In October, Kumon joined three Kettering students at the 2025 Physics and Astronomy Congress in Denver, Colorado. During the congress, Kumon was honored with the 2025 SPS Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award, the most prestigious recognition for advisors presented by the Society of Physics Students.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Dr. Kumon said:
“The credit for this award goes to the many physics majors and other students enamored by physics who have dedicated their time to maintain a regular weekly schedule of fun and engaging activities related to physics and astronomy for the campus community. I would also like to thank my colleagues in physics and natural sciences, and the Kettering Student Government for their support.”
The award recognizes exceptional leadership, mentorship, and sustained support of student-led SPS chapters. One advisor is selected each year nationally, with the award supporting the advisor, chapter, and academic department. This year, the ceremony was held at the Physics and Astronomy Congress, rather than the traditional winter meeting of the American Association of Physics Teachers.
Kumon earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics from Michigan State University and his PhD in physics from the University of Texas at Austin. His research interests include biomedical ultrasound, optical microscopy, and nondestructive evaluation of materials. Outside of his academic work, he is a jazz enthusiast and a licensed amateur radio operator.
Through national leadership, sustained student mentorship, and academic excellence, Ron Kumon’s election reflects Kettering University’s continued impact on physics education and professional preparation at the highest levels.
