Dr. Russell Kraus (left) came to the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences in July of 1978 and was its director until 1983 when he took a position in the Technical Photography department of the school. Upon the retirement of his mentor, Dr. Les Stroebel, he undertook the primary responsibility for a course offered to about 200 students each quarter and often considered the hallmark of an RIT photographic education, Materials and Processes of Photography. He was renowned for his ability to identify his students by name within a couple of weeks of having met all of them.

In addition to teaching Rus became an expert witness in the area of forensic imaging and is relied upon by several law enforcement agencies for guidance in areas such as authentication and identification especially as related to digital imaging. Rus leaves a rich legacy of educational accomplishemnt, technological achievement and institutional service.

After operating his own advertising photography studio in Chicago for 27 years Howard LeVant (right) came to the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences in August of 1978 and joined the Professional Photographic Illustration department where over the years he taught in all 4 undergraduate years and also offered a graduate course. He has taught courses in Scandinavia and the Middle East. Recently he wrote and taught a business course for seniors.

Howard started a database of alumni and ex-students and has kept the listing current and active for the last 18 years and he is in regular communication with about 7,500 alumni. He prepares two newsletters for them every year bringing them up to date on developments in the School.