I met Michael when I was a nervous, beginning assistant professor and he was a DEAN.  Such distinctions didn't matter to him, and I therefore took great pleasure and comfort in the meeting because he took the time to share his experiences in a very humane way.   

Even though I met Michael before he took up his last academic post, I'll remember him most as a presence in Elmira.  Indeed, it's difficult to imagine Elmira without Michael's wit and warmth.   

Gregg