marshall newton
Collaborator and friend
I have recently published some reminiscences of my wonderful experiences with Bob Cave, and here I offer a few excerpts from these.
Bob had a huge impact promoting our understanding of molecular chemical behavior in vacuum and condensed phases, primarily chemical kinetics (especially charge transfer) and molecular spectroscopy.
It was always a great pleasure for me and Bob’s other numerous collaborators to work with him, in some cases over several decades, relishing his friendly spirit present at all times.
Bob came up with ground breaking advances in his research, but with an endearing humility and ambiance, and with down to earth common sense and humor; eg, the title of one of his invited talks, ‘Butadiene-the simplest of polyenes? Not by a long shot’.
Elaine Hart '06
Student
Dean Cave taught my section of Frosh Chem and is the reason I majored in chemistry. I wanted to love something as much as he loved science and teaching. Over the years I would learn that it wasn’t just science and teaching – he seemed to love just about everything and everyone – that’s just how he moved through this world. Whether we were talking about science, or family, or sports, or an epic concert, his enthusiasm was infectious. As a mentor after college, he always reminded me of what was most important – enough about work, are you happy? How is your family? And he always had a way of popping up when I needed a little extra wisdom, perspective, or support. I’m so grateful for the lessons he taught me – they’ll be with me, along with his incredible laugh, forever.
Stephen Edwards '06
Student
Prof. Cave was my senior thesis advisor. I’ll always remember his deep laugh, enthusiasm for science and his students, long conversations about baseball, and love for New York pizza.
The one thing that had always stuck with me was the advice he gave to me when I was stressing about selecting the “right” grad school. He listened, and then spoke directly to the source of my struggle:
“You have several choices that are the ‘right’ choice. They are different, but none of them are the wrong choice. If you keep working hard and thinking deeply, you will find your success wherever you go.”
I’ve turned to this advice so many times in my life. For the important choices in my career and beyond, It has helped me embrace the unknown and unfamiliar with confidence and enthusiasm. I wouldn’t be where I am today without that.
From time to time, I have had the opportunity to pass this exact same advice to students and interns of my own. Everytime I repeat his words, I hope that I’m passing on just a little bit of Prof. Cave to the next generation.
Claire O'Hanlon '09
Student
Dean Cave was always a warm and caring presence on campus. I’ll never forget his beautiful, melodious voice. May his memory be a blessing to us all.
Jason Santiago '07
Student and colleague
I met Bob as Dean Cave and knew him as such throughout my four years at Mudd. I’ve always felt incredibly fortunate to first know him in that role, from seeking out his counsel myself to directing younger students his way as a senior. He was endlessly warm, cheerful and wise. He was the best.