2024 IEEE Chicago 130th Annual Fair & Expo |
CIMST Department Showcases at the 2024 IEEE Chicago 130th Annual Fair & Expo
The 2024 IEEE Chicago 130th Annual Fair & Expo, held at the Illinois Institute of Technology on Saturday, October 12, 2024, was a significant event for professionals, engineers, faculty members, and students
from across Illinois. The Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) took part in this prestigious event by setting up a booth to represent the department’s
programs and initiatives. The event provided an excellent platform for networking
and knowledge exchange, with participants sharing their expertise, research findings,
and experiences in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity,
and data science.
From the CIMST department, Chairman Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Prof. Rohan Attele, and several graduate students attended the fair. A key highlight was Dr. Salam's
2-minute pitch talk, where he had the opportunity to showcase the department’s programs, research, and
recent accomplishments.
This event served as a valuable opportunity for the department to connect with industry
leaders, academic professionals, and potential collaborators, all while enhancing
its visibility in the broader technological community. For students, the expo offered
direct exposure to professionals in the field, fostering potential internships, collaborations,
and job opportunities. Participating in this annual event not only strengthens the
department’s industry ties but also ensures that the faculty and students are actively
engaged in current industry trends and innovations.
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Fostering Academic Collaboration: Purdue University and Chicago State University Explore
New Partnerships
On Monday, September 30, 2024, Dr. John Gates, Vice Provost for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging and Clinical Professor at the
Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business at Purdue University (PU), visited the campus of Chicago State University (CSU). This visit marked a significant step in exploring collaborative opportunities between
the two institutions, particularly in areas such as resource sharing, faculty exchange, and student pathways to PhD programs at Purdue. These discussions were pivotal in fostering a stronger relationship between the
two campuses, with the potential to open doors for joint research projects, academic
exchanges, and opportunities for CSU students to pursue advanced degrees at Purdue.
During his visit, Dr. Gates met with key leadership at CSU, including President Zaldwaynaka Scott and Provost Sonja Feist-Price. These high-level discussions focused on how both institutions could benefit from a shared
commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and inclusion. The possibility of establishing
formal agreements that would enhance faculty and student exchanges, as well as collaboration
on research initiatives, was a central theme of the meeting.
Dr. Gates also visited the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST), where he met with Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, the department chair, and other prominent faculty members, including Dr. Rohan Attele, Dr. Saifuddin Saif, Prof. Kristen Griffin, and Prof. Melvin Miller. The interactions were positive, and the faculty expressed a strong interest in exploring
avenues for joint research and academic initiatives with Purdue University. Dr. Gates
commended the department’s efforts in advancing technology education and research,
noting the potential for collaborative projects that could benefit both institutions.
One of the highlights of Dr. Gates' visit was his motivational speech delivered to
the undergraduate and graduate students of the CIMST Department. His speech was both encouraging and inspiring, focusing
on the importance of perseverance, the value of advanced education, and the exciting
opportunities that lie ahead for students pursuing careers in STEM fields especially
in semiconductors. He emphasized the unique opportunities that a PhD pathway at Purdue University could offer, especially for those passionate about technology,
innovation, and research.
Dr. Gates’ words resonated deeply with the students, many of whom expressed a keen
interest in pursuing further studies at Purdue. The visit sparked excitement and enthusiasm,
as students began to explore the possibility of transitioning from CSU’s rigorous
programs to PhD opportunities at Purdue. His visit not only motivated the students
but also left a lasting impression on the faculty.
In the end, Dr. Gates departed CSU with a sense of optimism and excitement for the
potential future collaborations between the two institutions. The discussions and
connections made during this visit laid a strong foundation for meaningful partnerships,
with great potential for growth and success in the future. Both CSU faculty and students
felt encouraged and inspired by the possibilities that this collaboration could bring,
marking this visit as an important milestone in CSU's ongoing efforts to foster partnerships
with leading institutions like Purdue University.
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CPL College & Career Event |
CIMST Department Engages Community at CPL College & Career Event: Promoting Programs
and Opportunities at Chicago State University
On Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Department of Computing, Information, Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) at Chicago State University (CSU) participated in
the CPL College & Career Event held at the Chicago Public Library's Austin
Branch. The CIMST department set up a table with the aim of introducing its programs
to the community and engaging with prospective students, alumni, and other local attendees.
Representing the department at the event were Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, department
chair, Dr. Kapila Rohan Attele, and Kristen Griffin. During the event, students from
local high schools, CSU alumni, and other community members stopped by the booth to
exchange information and learn more about the wide range of academic opportunities
available within the CIMST department.
During the event, the CIMST team had the opportunity to meet Dr. Faith Rice, the College
and Career Specialist at the CPL and Ms. Vickie Regan, a CSU LIS alumna. Their discussions
further enriched the day's connections and potential collaborations, as both Dr. Rice
and Ms. Regan were interested in strengthening ties between the library, the university,
and the broader community.
The event provided a valuable platform for the CIMST department to connect directly
with the community, offer insights into the programs and career paths in computing
and technology, and highlight CSU's commitment to education and community outreach.
The interaction between faculty and attendees was lively and productive, creating
an engaging atmosphere for future collaboration and student recruitment.
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A Collaborative Meeting with IEEE Chicago Section |
IEEE Student Chapter at Chicago State University: A Collaborative Meeting with IEEE
Chicago Section
On Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) at Chicago State University (CSU) hosted a significant meeting with the IEEE Chicago Section. The primary objective was to establish an IEEE
Student Chapter at CSU, marking a pivotal step in increasing engagement and providing opportunities
for students in the fields of computing and technology.
The meeting welcomed distinguished guests from the IEEE Chicago Section, including
Dr. Alvin Chin, who joined virtually, Dr. Biswaranjan Senapati, the Student Activity
Chair of the IEEE Chicago Section, and Dr. Sandeep Kumar Davuluri. Dr. Mohammad Abdus
Salam, the chair of the CIMST Department, led the event, warmly welcoming the guests
and attendees.
Faculty members Dr. Jan-Jo Chen and Kristen Griffin were present to support the initiative,
and the audience included both undergraduate and graduate students, eager to explore
how the formation of an IEEE Student Chapter could benefit their academic and professional
development.
The meeting served as an introductory session where the IEEE Chicago Section representatives
shared insights on the advantages of IEEE membership, the resources available to students,
and how establishing the chapter could foster networking, skill development, and career
opportunities. The exchange was lively, with students and faculty discussing potential
activities, projects, and collaborations.
Dr. Salam expressed his gratitude to the guests and emphasized the CIMST department's
commitment to ensuring students are at the forefront of technological advancement,
highlighting this partnership with IEEE as a valuable step in that direction. The
meeting concluded on a positive note, with both the IEEE representatives and CSU faculty
and students expressing excitement about the future prospects of the IEEE Student
Chapter.
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On Tuesday, April 9, 2024, the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) hosted an AI Talk at Chicago State University in collaboration with the University of Michigan, Ann
Arbor. Faculty members, undergraduate and graduate students, gathered in the lecture
hall, eagerly awaiting the much-anticipated research presentations by two promising
PhD students: Christopher Clarke and Siyang Liu.
Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, the esteemed department chair, stood at the front of the
room, his warm smile welcoming everyone to the event he had meticulously organized.
The atmosphere was charged with intellectual curiosity as the audience settled into
their seats, ready to delve into the cutting-edge research that lay ahead.
Christopher Clarke took to the stage first, his confidence evident as he began his
presentation on "Towards Enhanced Human-AI Interaction: A Holistic Approach to Personalization in Natural
Language Processing." With poise and clarity, he articulated his vision for revolutionizing human-AI
interaction through personalized natural language processing systems. His research
promised to bridge the gap between users and AI, fostering more intuitive and effective
communication channels.
As Christopher concluded his presentation to rousing applause, Siyang Liu stepped
forward, poised to share her insights on "Task-Adaptive Tokenization: Enhancing Long-Form Text Generation Efficacy in Mental
Health." With a blend of expertise and passion, Siyang delved into her innovative approach
to improving long-form text generation in the realm of mental health. Her research
aimed to empower AI systems to generate tailored content, potentially revolutionizing
support services in this critical domain.
Dr. Salam beamed with pride as he witnessed the intellectual exchange unfolding before
him. This event epitomized the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defined
the CIMST department, showcasing the dedication of its faculty and the brilliance
of its students.
As the event drew to a close, the audience dispersed, their minds buzzing with inspiration
and ideas sparked by the research presented. Christopher Clarke and Siyang Liu had
left an indelible mark on the CIMST community, their contributions poised to shape
the future of human-AI interaction and mental health support through the power of
technology and innovation.
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CIMST Department in ILSAMP Symposium |
CIMST Department Participates in Illinois Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
(ILSAMP) Program
The Department of Computing, Information, Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST)
at Chicago State University proudly participated in the Illinois Louis Stokes Alliance
for Minority Participation (ILSAMP) program held on February 23-24, 2024. This significant
event took place at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg - Chicago, located at 1800 E. Golf
Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60173.
Established in 1993 and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the ILSAMP
program is dedicated to increasing the number of minority students in STEM fields.
The event provided an excellent platform for students, faculty, and industry professionals
to engage, share knowledge, and promote diversity in STEM education and careers. Several faculty members including Dr. Rohan Attele, Dr. Mousa Ayyash, and Dr. Elaina
Khasawneh from the CIMST department served as judges for various competitions, contributing
their expertise to assess the innovative projects presented by the participants. Additionally,
other faculty members delivered insightful presentations on current research and developments
in the fields of computing, information, and mathematical sciences.
The CIMST department also hosted an information desk at the event, under the guidance
of Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, the department chair. Dr. Salam was actively engaged
with attendees, providing detailed information about the department's programs, initiatives,
and opportunities available at Chicago State University. During the event, Dr. Salam
had the pleasure of meeting with Dr. LeRoy Jones II, the former dean of the College
of Arts and Sciences, who is now serving as a program director for the NSF Louis Stokes
Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program. This meeting further strengthened
connections within the academic community and highlighted the collaborative efforts
to support minority participation in STEM.
Overall, the participation of the CIMST department in the ILSAMP program highlights
our commitment to fostering diversity and excellence in STEM. We look forward to continuing
our collaboration with the ILSAMP program and other initiatives that support minority
participation in these crucial fields.
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ComEd Scholars Recognition Event |
On the crisp afternoon of February 2nd, 2024, Chicago State University (CSU) radiated with a palpable sense of pride and
accomplishment as it hosted the prestigious ComEd Scholars Recognition Event. The
occasion marked a significant milestone in the university's ongoing commitment to
fostering academic excellence and nurturing promising talent within its student body.
Amidst the stately halls of CSU, adorned with the echoes of scholarly pursuit, distinguished
guests gathered to celebrate the inaugural recipients of the esteemed ComEd Scholarship.
Among those in attendance were President Z Scott, a beacon of leadership whose vision
illuminated the path of educational empowerment; John Robak, Chair of the Chicago
State Foundation, whose unwavering dedication laid the foundation for transformative
philanthropy; Evelyn Rodriguez Estrada, the Director of Corporate Community Impact
at ComEd, whose tireless advocacy championed the cause of educational equity; and
Gil Quiniones, the esteemed CEO of ComEd, whose commitment to innovation and social
responsibility reshaped the landscape of corporate stewardship.
Dr. Leslie Roundtree, the esteemed Provost of CSU, stood as a steadfast pillar of
academic excellence, guiding the university towards new heights of scholarly achievement.
As the event unfolded, the halls resonated with the collective enthusiasm of faculty,
staff, and students alike, each eager to witness the unfolding of a landmark occasion.
At the heart of the celebration lay the remarkable achievements of CSU's brightest
minds—two students (Isa Abdussalam and Jose Villa) from the esteemed Department of
Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) and two (Thomas
Sieka and Xavier McGowan) from the Department of Physics—whose dedication, resilience,
and academic prowess had earned them the prestigious ComEd Scholarship. Their names,
now etched in the annals of excellence, served as a testament to the transformative
power of education and the boundless potential that resides within the corridors of
learning.
As the ceremony unfolded, words of inspiration and gratitude filled the air, weaving
a tapestry of hope and possibility that transcended the confines of academia. Each
speaker, with heartfelt sincerity, expressed their profound appreciation for the unwavering
commitment of the scholarship recipients and the transformative impact of their academic
pursuits. In the hallowed halls of CSU, amidst the echoes of history and the promise
of tomorrow, the ComEd Scholars Recognition Event stood as a beacon of hope, unity,
and boundless possibility.
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Invited Speech: OQI Fellowship and Quantum Games by Dr. Russell Ceballos Attendees: Professors: Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Dr. Kapila Attele, Dr. Prabhakarrao Achanta,
and Dr. Jan-Jo Chen Students: Asim Gasmelseid, D'Kaila Price, Pradip Barvaliya, Kawanun Moore, Neha Pathan,
Bralatei Toikumoh, Emiliano Casadero, Wasiu Adedamola, Amoni Midderhoff, and Reed
Gahagan.
Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE)
Open Quantum Initiative Undergraduate Fellowship Program
On December 8, 2023, the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences,
and Technology (CIMST) at Chicago State University showcased its unwavering commitment
to advancing education through a compelling presentation by Dr. Russell R Ceballos
from Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE). The event introduced the highly anticipated Open
Quantum Initiative (OQI) Undergraduate Fellowship Program offered by CQE, aimed at
providing students at CSU with invaluable research experience in the realm of quantum
science and engineering. The OQI Fellowship Program provides undergraduates with a
unique chance to explore quantum information science and engineering (QISE) through
hands-on projects in cutting-edge laboratories and research groups. This initiative
not only facilitates connections with influential figures in academia and industry
but also acts as a launchpad for students to explore diverse career paths in applied
quantum research. Working on challenging QISE projects during the summer, students
collaborate with research groups across prestigious institutions like the University
of Chicago, Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and
others. The program begins with an illuminating industry site visit to quantum-focused
companies, such as IBM Research and HRL Laboratories, and concludes with the OQI Research
Symposium, where participants showcase their groundbreaking research to a distinguished
audience of current and past OQI cohorts, faculty, and industry partners.
The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Chairman of the
CIMST Department, Dr. Kapila Attele, Dr. Prabhakarrao Achanta, and Dr. Jan-Jo Chen,
who extended a warm welcome to esteemed speaker Dr. Russell R Ceballos from Chicago
Quantum Exchange. This fellowship opportunity has not only enhanced the educational
journey for the students but has also fostered stronger connections between academia
and industry. We would like to thank Dr. Russell R Ceballos from Chicago Quantum Exchange
for providing this prestigious fellowship opportunity to our students.
Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Chairman of the CIMST Department, Dr. Kapila Attele, and
Dr. Jan-Jo Chen met with the speaker Dr. Russell R Ceballos, Assoc. Director of Curriculum
and Education Partnership - Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE).
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Informatico! 2023 Newsletter |
Strong Start projects with P33 Chicago and PWC
The Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology
(CIMST) at Chicago State University received invaluable support through the Strong
Start projects facilitated by P33Chicago and PWC. The culmination of this support was marked by the final presentation held on November
15, 2023, showcasing the collaborative efforts between the university and these influential
organizations. Under the guidance of Prof. Kristen Griffin, whose expertise played
a pivotal role, students demonstrated the outcomes of their projects, reflecting the
practical application of knowledge gained. The event was graced by the presence of
Dean Mark Smith and Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, who extended a warm welcome to esteemed
guests from P33Chicago and PWC. This partnership not only enhances the academic experience
for students but also underscores the department's commitment to fostering meaningful
connections with industry leaders, facilitating a seamless integration of academia
and real-world applications in the ever-evolving field of computing and technology.
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Students Participation in Cyberforce Competition
Introduction:
The Department of Energy's Cyberforce Competition [https://cyberforce.energy.gov/cyberforce-competition/2023-update/] , held at the
Q Center in Charleston, IL on November 3-4, 2023, witnessed the enthusiastic participation
of five students from the Chicago State University for the first time. This event,
aimed at fostering cybersecurity skills and promoting collaboration, provided an excellent
platform for our students to showcase their talents and learn from industry experts.
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Participants and Teams:
Chicago State University proudly entered a team of five students [Abiodun Soneye,
D’Kaila Price, Rayshond Hall, Wasiu Adedamola, and Yonathan Getachew] from the Department
of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) who demonstrated
commendable dedication and passion throughout the competition. The diverse skill sets
of our participants contributed to the formation of a well-rounded team, creating
a conducive environment for collaborative problem-solving
Performance Highlights:
Despite being first-time participants, our students displayed a remarkable performance
that exceeded expectations. Their ability to navigate complex challenges and adapt
to dynamic scenarios showcased not only their technical expertise but also their resilience
under pressure. The team's collaboration and effective communication were key factors
contributing to their above-average performance.
Learning Outcomes:
Participation in the Cyberforce Competition offered our students a unique opportunity
to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. The hands-on challenges provided
a valuable learning experience, allowing them to develop and refine their cybersecurity
skills. Exposure to diverse scenarios enhanced their problem-solving capabilities
and expanded their understanding of current cybersecurity threats.
Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Chairman of the CIMST Department along with Professor Kristen Griffin accompanied the students competition.
Conclusion:
The Department of Energy's Cyberforce Competition proved to be an enriching experience
for our students, highlighting their potential and capabilities in the field of cybersecurity.
The success of our first-time participants is a testament to the quality of education
and preparation provided by our institution. We look forward to future opportunities
for our students to excel in similar competitions and contribute to the ever-evolving
field of cybersecurity.
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Deloitte Cloud Institute: CloudStart Program
Over two dynamic days on October 27-28, 2023, the Department of Computing, Information
and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology (CIMST) at Chicago State University demonstrated
its commitment to cutting-edge education as more than 30 undergraduate and graduate
students actively participated in the "Deloitte Cloud Institute: CloudStart Program"
intensive workshop. Held at the Deloitte Office in Chicago Downtown, the workshop provided an invaluable opportunity for students to immerse themselves
in the intricacies of cloud computing. Noteworthy attendees included Dean Mark Smith,
Dean Derrick Collins, and Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Chairman of the CIMST Department,
all of whom contributed to the vibrant exchange of knowledge and ideas. This collaborative
engagement not only enriched the educational experience for the students but also
strengthened the ties between academia and industry, fostering a bridge for the practical
application of theoretical concepts in the realm of computing and technology. We would
like to thank Deloitte for providing this opportunity to our students. Special thanks go to Rahim Green,
Senior Manage, Mikayla Nash, Deloitte Consultant, and Will Thomas, Deloitte Consultant.
The participants received voucher to complete the Google Cloud Digital Leader Certification.
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Collaboration among Chicago State University and Institutions in Türkiye
In a momentous event fostering international academic collaboration, Turkish delegates
from Kirikkale University and Islamic Science History Research Foundation (IBTAV) paid a visit to Chicago State University (CSU) on October 12, 2023, marking
the beginning of a promising partnership. Dr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Chairman of the
Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology, in
collaboration with Dr. Devi Prasad Potluri, Associate Provost for School of Graduate
and Professional Studies and Mrs. Katherine Haan, Director, PDSO, Global Engagement
Office hosted this event. The following delegates attended hosted by the CSU.
- Ersan Aslan, Rector, Kirkkale University, Vice President of the Board of Directors,
IBTAV
- Mercit Çetinkaya, President, Board of Directors, IBTAV
- Zeynep Başer, Head of International Office, Kirikkale University
- Osman Kadara, Southern University, Liaison for Türkiye
- Mehtap Kandara, Southern University
The delegation, representing esteemed institutions from Türkiye, engaged in discussions
aimed at enhancing collaborative efforts in research and facilitating student exchange
programs. The visit included a special focus on interactions with the faculty members
from the Department of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Technology. This strategic meeting allowed for the exchange of ideas, expertise, and perspectives,
paving the way for future joint research endeavors and academic initiatives between
the Turkish institutions and Chicago State University. The shared commitment to advancing
knowledge and fostering cross-cultural understanding is expected to yield fruitful
outcomes for both academic communities, as well as contribute to the global advancement
of education and research.
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