Aleksandar Micovic

Speaking as one of his students, I've had the pleasure of
being in Avner's class twice. Once in second year, and once
in third year. The second year was a little shaky for
everyone - students and staff - but it was understandable
since the course was being reformed and they even cut the
budget for it. The fact that we got through it at all was
amazing, if not for the fact that Avner really gave it his
all near the end. Completely selfless, he was making
appointments with students left, right and centre and
devoted more time to us than any professor should have. A
few months later, UofT bestowed upon him the recognition he
deserved.

My second course with Avner was very different. This time,
no one had problems with the course, and for the first time
I saw Avner in his prime. He was all smiles, and very
passionate about the material. But above all, he was great
teacher. As a student, I can safely say that rare is the
course where you learn so much and not even realize that you
did!

Our class had a recurring inside joke that year. You see,
the podium was right beside the chalk board, and for some
reason Avner always seemed to forget that it was there. When
walking around, he would always bump into
it. Always. Sometimes he'd mutter something, other times,
smile at the fact that he bumped into it again. It's such a
simple thing, but it's my fondest memory of him.

I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to his
family. As for us students, to say that he will be missed is
a large understatement.