In Memory of Prof. Reza Ashari Nasution (2 March 1976 - 12 May 2024)

Reflecting on the life and legacy of Prof. Reza Ashari Nasution ST Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) , PhD (Universiteit Twente), I am reminded of the profound impact he had on my 1st semester PhD journey. Throughout his twelve sessions in the Preparation Exam class and his nine sessions in Behavioral Science, Prof. Nasution exemplified dedication, intelligence, and a strong commitment to education (read: human who happen to be students). He often coughed during class and would sometimes politely ask for a brief time out to refresh himself, turning off his camera. At the time, I didn't realize he was ill. Despite these interruptions, his positive energy, inviting demeanor, and engaging voice always drew me in, encouraging me to listen attentively and prepare my questions. He was younger than me, he traveled less than me, but I wanted to know him more, as he seems to know something about life that I don't. It wasn't until the third class that someone mentioned his illness. I was shocked and found myself questioning the universe, but who am I to judge such matters? I recall one instance when I wished him well at the start of a class. I looked at his Zoom window and saw him nod and say thanks, ever the gentleman, so calm and composed.

Students often prioritize their relationship with their professors over their connection with the university itself. Research has consistently shown that student-teacher relationships (STRs) significantly impact various student outcomes, such as academic achievement, engagement, and overall well-being (Kincade et al., 2020). Understanding students' expectations of their professors is crucial for enhancing the professor-student relationship and improving academic performance (Sánchez et al., 2011). Studies have highlighted that the quality of out-of-class relationships between students and professors not only influences academic effort but also affects students' sense of connection to the university and their overall educational experience (Ellis, 2012). Effective university professors are characterized not only by their subject matter expertise but also by their ability to engage students, focus on student needs, and build rapport with them (Kim & Olson, 2016). When students trust their professors, they tend to engage more in lessons, leading to better learning outcomes (?zer et al., 2018). The personal interaction between professors and students has been identified as a high-impact practice associated with positive outcomes, including students feeling more positive about their university and achieving better in their courses (Cistulli & Snyder, 2022).

Prof. Nasution's approach to teaching was characterized by his exceptional responsiveness. Whether through email,

or through WhatsApp,

or through his likes on my LinkedIn posts or article, or via telephone conversation, he ensured I received the support needed, never missing an opportunity to provide feedback or guidance. His openness to various communication channels made him an accessible and supportive figure for me. His email communication indicated he spends times to digest, to discern and to show compassion: he replies with meaningful sentences, not only exclamation words: "Thanks", "Noted". He shows humanity in him.

What set Prof. Nasution apart was his genuine interest in my work and ideas and his open-mindedness. Despite his own vast knowledge, having earned his Professorship in Digital Business Strategy in his mid forties, he was so humble that he welcomed and encouraged the exploration of new frameworks and perspectives from his students.

Learning of his passing was devastating, as he embodied the qualities of an exceptional educator described by RM Sosrokartono (Tambun, 2024) . Prof. Nasution was not just a teacher but a motivator in his own way and a friend in need (..is a friend indeed). His legacy lives on in my class-notes left in the Microsoft Notes and presence he imparted, both inside and outside the classroom.

His journey reminded us all of the fragility of life and the importance of unselfishly serving and doing good for others. We only live our lives once, and Prof. Nasution's example inspires us to make a positive impact every day. In recognition of my respect for him and wishing him well, I recall starting a class by expressing my prayers for his health and happiness through Zoom.

In this time of sorrow, my heartfelt prayers go out to the family of the late Prof. Reza Ashari Nasution. May they find strength and comfort in the cherished memories of his life and the enduring impact he had on so many. May they be surrounded by love and support, and may the warmth of his spirit provide solace during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with them, and I hope they find peace in knowing how deeply he was loved and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him. (I hope one of my connections can pass this message to his beloved family if it is appropriate). ??????????????????????????????????

REFERENCES

Cistulli, M., & Snyder, J. (2022). Student-Professor Social Media Relationships: An Exploratory Study of Privacy and Trust. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906221077265

Ellis, N. (2012). Implications of Out-of-Class Engagement: Exploring the Experience of OBU Students. Administrative Issues Journal Education Practice and Research. https://doi.org/10.5929/2012.2.2.6

Gallup, Inc. (2015). Gallup-Purdue Index 2015 Report: Great Jobs, Great Lives. The Relationship Between Student Debt, Experiences and Perceptions of College Worth. Retrieved from https://www.gallup.com/services/185924/gallup-purdue-index-2015-report.aspx

Kim, E. P., & Olson, M. (2016). Exemplary Chinese University Professors: Qualities and Impact on Students. Iafor Journal of Education. https://doi.org/10.22492/ije.4.1.07

Kincade, L., Cook, C. R., & Goerdt, A. (2020). Meta-Analysis and Common Practice Elements of Universal Approaches to Improving Student-Teacher Relationships. Review of Educational Research. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654320946836

?zer, N., Atik, S., ?ad, S. N., & K??, A. (2018). Turkish College Students’ Trust in Professors and Engagement: “I Trust Therefore I Engage!” Educational Administration Theory and Practice Journal. https://doi.org/10.14527/kuey.2018.014

Sánchez, M. M., Martinez-Pecino, R., Rodríguez, Y. T., & Melero, P. (2011). Student Perspectives on the University Professor Role. Social Behavior and Personality an International Journal. https://doi.org/10.2224/sbp.2011.39.4.491

Tambun, T., 2024, Sosrokartono’s wisdom and the transformative role of educators, The Jakarta Post, https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2023/12/23/sosrokartonos-wisdom-and-the-transformative-role-of-educators.html?cache=8673.

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