Lap Chi Lau

Avner is a very generous friend and teacher. I was not his
phd student but he was very generous with his time. In our
meetings he taught me his expertise on geometric analysis
and semidefinite programming; he shared his vision and
passion about research; he read my manuscripts carefully and
gave very useful comments; he listened patiently and gave
advice about my career; he shared his passions and
experiences about climbing and his life; he gave tips about
how to be a better father... And of course he did all these
with his wonderful humor! We interacted not for a long
time, but he has great influence on me. I have learnt a
great deal from him and he set up a great model for me to
follow. His spirit will always be in our memory.