As we close out the year, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our 300+ industry partners, students, alumni, and executive advisory board members who joined us for Innovation Day and celebrated 40 years of computing at Grand Valley. It was truly inspiring to see the energy and collaboration in the room as we highlighted student projects, explored industry trends through our panels, and connected with one another to build a stronger future for computing. Moments like these remind us of the power of partnership and collective innovation as we work together to build a stronger, more dynamic future for computing.

This April, I am proud to announce that we are graduating the largest class in computing history at GVSU. These talented students are prepared to take on the challenges of tomorrow, and events like Innovation Day are a testament to what we can achieve together—bridging the gap between academia and industry to create meaningful opportunities for both our students and partners.

We are also making great progress in our strategic planning. This process is driven by a shared vision to innovate, adapt, and elevate our programs to meet the rapidly evolving demands of the tech industry. Through spirited discussions and creative brainstorming, the team is identifying key priorities, from enhancing student success to forging deeper industry partnerships and expanding cutting-edge research initiatives. Together, we’re charting a bold course to empower our students, strengthen our community, and lead the way in computing excellence.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we will continue to advance innovation and computing excellence, because Computing Lakers always reach higher!

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and a bright new year!

Marouane Kessentini, Ph.D.

Dean, College of Computing
Grand Valley State University

Faculty/Staff Spotlight: Dr. Ali Raza

Dr. Ali Raza was awarded the LA4Equity Spencer Mini-Project Stipend to support research on equitable K-12 STEM education. The grant funds a graduate student to help establish a Research Practice Partnership with a school district, using Learning Analytics to identify and address learning disparities in STEM classrooms.

Learn more about Dr. Raza and his work.

Student Spotlight: Marcos Sanson

Marcos Sanson, a young man with short brown hair, smiles at the camera while wearing a black jacket. Behind him is the Royal Palace of Madrid, with its ornate architecture and a tree partially in view. The photo is taken at sunset, with a clear sky and soft golden lighting.

Major: Computer Science
Year: Senior

What impact could designing and programming a 3D-printed robotic dog have on a high school student? For Marcos Sanson, a computer science student, it was the beginning of a deep passion for technology and a curiosity for innovative projects. "That project was something I really enjoyed doing and it also showed me that I can solve different issues using software and computers," he recalled.

Click here to read the full story and learn more about Marcos' journey and achievements!

Catch up on all of our student news here, including Logan Nommensen's article here.

News from the College of Computing

College of Computing honors sponsorship for new AI executive program

A generous donation from Jim Hackett, the former CEO of Ford and Steelcase, will support the launch of an Artificial Intelligence for Executives training program within the College of Computing. President Philomena V. Mantella and College of Computing Dean Marouane Kessentini announced and recognized Hackett’s $300,000 sponsorship during a Fireside Chat on December 6. The chat, moderated by Kessentini, was part of the College’s Innovation Day at the Amway Grand Plaza.

Learn more about the new AI executive training program.

A woman stands at the front of a room giving a presentation. She is speaking into a microphone and gesturing with one hand. A large screen behind her displays a slide, and the room is filled with attendees seated at tables.

New partnership expands global opportunities for students and strengthens ties with Tunisia

On Friday, November 8, 2024, the College of Computing at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) proudly signed a international partnership agreement with ESPRIT University, a leading private institution in Tunisia, with over 12,000 students, specializing in engineering, business, and digital technologies. This collaboration, which marks the second international agreement for GVSU’s College of Computing, establishes 3+2 and 1+1 dual-degree programs designed to provide students from both institutions with unparalleled academic and professional opportunities.

Learn more about our international partnerships.

A large computer lab set up for an ICPC (International Collegiate Programming Contest) event. Rows of desks with desktop computers and monitors are decorated with colorful balloons. Participants are seen working at computers or walking around, with some interacting in the background. The room has bright lighting and large windows.

GVSU Hosted International Computing Event

On November 9th and 10th, Grand Valley hosted the East Central Regional as a part of the International Collegiate Programming Contest, or ICPC. The ICPC is one of the prestegious collegiate programming contests, with regional competitions being held all over the world. According to the ICPC website, it is also one of the oldest programming competitions, with the first event being held in 1970. This year, GVSU hosted the East Central Regional competition, and two Grand Valley teams competed.

Learn more about ICPC here.

College of Computing Seed Funding Presentations

Discover groundbreaking work in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, and more, as faculty share their information on their research and where they're moving forward.

Click the link to the left or visit our YouTube channel.

Three students are seated at a table eating lunch. They are smiling and engaged in conversation while enjoying their meals. Plates, drinks, and utensils are visible on the table, with a casual and friendly atmosphere.

November Highlights: Innovation, Connection, and Student Success at the College of Computing

The College of Computing hosted engaging events, including the PSM Internship Showcase, alumni tailgate, Hangout with Holli, Lunch and Learns, and faculty lightning talks.

Read more about the five things that happened in the college in November.

Sponsor a Senior Project

The GVSU College of Computing invites industry partners to sponsor senior capstone projects for Computer Science and Cybersecurity students. These projects provide an excellent opportunity to collaborate with talented students, gain innovative solutions for real-world challenges, and help shape the next generation of tech professionals. Sponsors benefit from fresh perspectives while mentoring students as they tackle industry-relevant problems.

Secure your spot today and make a meaningful impact! Submit your project proposal by December 31, 2024. For more information, visit our website.

You can reach out directly to Dr. Jonathan Engelsma or Dr. Dimitri Melissourgos for more detailed information.

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