From the Dean
It is nice to see a growing number of faculty, students and staff returning to campus. They, along with the spring weather, are adding a new level of energy and activity to our campus and college, and this month’s newsletter reflects some of their work as we move closer to more normal operations.
Our lead story features a new interdisciplinary project involving the college’s researchers, postdocs and graduate and undergraduate students in partnership with the U.S. Army to advance 3D printing technology. The platform they are developing will allow production engineers to design and test complex components for ground and air vehicles without physically building them, saving both time and money.
Also this month, we feature two stories that underscore Clemson University’s growing strength in artificial intelligence. We announce the appointment of Feng Luo as the new Marvin J. Pinson, Jr. ’46 Distinguished Professor in Artificial Intelligence. In addition to his own extensive research, Dr. Luo is extending our focus in AI by bringing together more than 90 faculty from across the University to create new, interdisciplinary research and education programs. Because of the forward-thinking investments of supporters like Mr. Pinson, we are able to recruit and retain top faculty who are leaders in their fields.
In a separate story, we feature the work of Bart Knijnenburg, Nathan McNeese and Kelly Caine, all faculty members in the School of Computing. They are collaborating with partners in the College of Education to use artificial intelligence to advance personalized learning and mathematics education in South Carolina’s K-12 system. This project underscores the power of collaboration in advancing research that will have a significant impact on our state’s future.
In addition, this issue highlights several of our research efforts focusing on health and safety. Collaborations with CECAS researchers, industry and a private French firm are investigating a wide-range of topics from pharmaceutical supply chain logistics to motion in wheelchair-tennis athletes to an app that connects victims of conflict and natural disasters with sources for food and other types of aid.
Finally, this month’s newsletter features our commemorations of Black History Month in February and Women’s History Month in March when we yet again have to acknowledge another incidence of racial violence, this time against the Asian-American community. We condemn such prejudice in the strongest terms; it has no place in our college, University or society. We in CECAS continually work to create a culture of diversity, inclusivity and equity, led by Oliver Myers, our associate dean of inclusive excellence for undergraduates, and Melissa Smith, our associate dean of inclusive excellence and graduate studies.
The successes of this college are only possible because of our wide range of stakeholders, including you – our alumni, friends and supporters. I am sometimes asked how you can help. Donations are always welcome, and you can contribute by clicking the “Make a Gift” button below. As always, your support is deeply appreciated.
I hope you continue to stay safe and healthy,
Anand K. Gramopadhye, Dean
