Atanasoff Today 2023-2024: Celebrating Excellence in Computer Science - The Lasting Impact of Long Nguyen

Dr. Long Nguyen's contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of computer science at Iowa State University. These programs underscore Dr. Long Nguyen's commitment to advancing knowledge, supporting faculty, and cultivating a new wave of computing leaders. His approach ensures that the legacy of excellence he has cultivated will continue to resonate and inspire within the halls of Iowa State University for generations to come as we continue our innovative research.

Pragmatics Graduate Fellowship in Computer Science

Established in 2012, the Pragmatics Graduate Fellowship in Computer Science has been awarded to 12 outstanding graduate students in the Department of Computer Science. 
This year, the recipients are Siddhant Grover, Samrajya Thapa, and Yididiya Nadew.

I have been passionate about problem-solving as far as I can remember. Studying and researching the field of computer science enables me to work toward that passion. In the future, I hope to get my doctorate and become an independent researcher in this field. I would like to personally thank you. This scholarship enabled my development as a researcher and has given me the confidence to work toward independent research. It has been crucial to my first conference-accepted paper. Thank you for all the support.

- Siddhant Grover

I envision my future very tied to academia. Specifically, I’m interested in contributing to interdisciplinary research projects at intersections between machine learning and neuroscience. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support I had growing up. Through teaching, I hope to provide mentorship and guidance to students who may not have access to the resources and support that I did. Giving is one of the most noble things one can do. Your contributions not only reflect this virtue, but also help push the bounds of science, making it even more impactful. I am immensely thankful for your generosity.

- Yididiya Nadew

 Dr. Robert Stewart Early Research Recognition Awards

Established in conjunction with the Dr. Robert Stewart Distinguished Lectureship, this award recognizes Computer Science graduate students who study a research subject with very high risk. Since its inception, 26 students have conducted research through this award.
Recognizing the outstanding research contributions of graduate students, the Robert Stewart Early Research Recognition Award provides seed funding for research proposals within the department. 
The award winners for this year are Chenzu Zhao (Advisor: Mengdi Huai), Quazi Ishtiaque Mahmud (Advisor: Ali Jannesari), Xiangyang Xu (Advisor: Hongyang Gao), and Zihao Liu (Advisor: Chenglin Miao). The award winners, and their advisors, are pictured above (absent: Ali Jannesari) along with Myra Cohen.
This initiative fosters a culture of innovation and excellence among graduate students, contributing to the continued success of the Computer Science program at ISU.

Dr. Robert Stewart Distinguished Lectureship

Established in 2003, the Dr. Robert Stewart Distinguished Lectureship is held in honor of Robert Stewart, the first Department Chair in Computer Science at Iowa State University.  
The Robert Stewart Distinguished Lectureship has featured renowned speakers, including Joseph Sifakis from Verimag Laboratory, discussing the challenges of self-driving cars in 2022; Martian Hellman from Stanford University, exploring the technological imperative for ethical evolution in 2019; and Leslie Valiant from Harvard University, delving into what needs to be added to machine learning in 2018. These lectures provide a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from some of the contemporary computing world's greatest minds.

Lanh and Oanh Nguyen Chair in Software Engineering

In collaboration with Kimmy Duong, Dr. Long Nguyen established the Lanh and Oanh Nguyen Chair in Software Engineering. This award, initiated in 2008, aims to support and ensure the future success of the Computer Science program at ISU. It plays a crucial role in recruiting world-class faculty members who significantly enhance the Department of Computer Science and the university as a whole. 
Since 2018, Dr. Myra Cohen, a Professor and Associate Chair for Research in the Department of Computer Science, has held the position. Dr. Myra Cohen has demonstrated exceptional performance in securing and managing research funding, initiating new research directions, building productive collaborations, and investing in relationships with brand new funding agencies.