PROFESSOR JOSEPH M. SUSSMAN

Joe and his sister Toby were my neighbors in Flatbush Brooklyn. Toby and I were best friends and grew up together. Joe was the older brother. Growing up in an apartment house, everyone is your friend. Like an extended family. I'm quite impressed by what Joe did with his life.

Prof. Sussman taught a couple of courses I took when he first joined the faculty at MIT. He was already a great teacher. I often think back to those classes because what he taught continues to be useful to me.

Although Joe was not my advisor, I remember him fondly for how much he cared about and engaged with all students in the program, and I later had an opportunity to spend time with him as academic colleagues. His legacy will live on.

Here, on Easter, I have just heard of Joe Sussman's passing. I am very sorry to hear of it and offer my condolences to Henri Ann and his family. Joe was my masters thesis advisor and a mentor. He was unfailingly reasonable, kind, and articulate, with me and with everyone with whom I saw him. I always learned something new when I heard him speak with his wonderful Brooklyn accent. I will miss him, as I'm sure will his many friends and colleagues. Peter French

Joe's was the first class I took in 1999 as a graduate student a few continents away from the comfort of the home I grew up in. That year, Joe tantalizingly promised to cancel our final exam if the Red Sox were to win the World Series. Such a passionate fan, and a great sense of humor! He was always ready with a smile, a kind word, a "How are ya?" as we walked past in the halls. He was always connected to the students and their well-being, and constantly strove to open our eyes to the big...

Joe was always full of heart and passion, becoming a dear friend and mentor to many students. I can still hear his deep Brooklyn accent!

His is a memory many colleagues and students will long cherish.

Professor Sussman will be greatly missed. I remember taking one of my first courses at MIT under him, and was impressed how he approached complex problems in simpler but powerful ways. He was a kind person and great mentor to many students at MIT.

I pray for his family. With deepest condolences.

Rest in peace Dr. Sussman. You will be remembered not only as a true gentleman and scholar, but also your significant contribution to the Transportation Engineering industry. thank you for your leadership at TRB and ITS America.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.