Dear brilliant colleagues,
We've just wrapped up week seven of the fall semester, and I must say, walking around the campus and seeing the students engaged in college life after so many years of isolation is invigorating. It’s your dedication to the mission of the University that made this possible. You inspire me!
We are constantly thinking about and working to build the best experience for our researchers, teachers, and students. I’m delighted to share some additional details about two key partnerships that will bring exciting new opportunities.
IU and NSWC Crane Partnership
A few weeks back, I participated in a dynamic meeting with leadership from IU and Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane. IU signed an agreement establishing a bold vision for the next phase of our partnership. Here are the strategic investments IU will undertake to strengthen our relationship with NSWC Crane, all of which involve Luddy:
- As part of the Faculty 100 initiative, hire 25 faculty in key technical disciplines, ranging from microelectronics to nanotechnology and other related fields.
- Expand the collaboration with NSWC Crane with the addition of 5 new faculty members doing research in microelectronics and related areas.
- Expand our connections with key partners in microelectronics, such as increasing our presence at WestGate Technology Park and participating in the recently announced $32.9M Silicon Crossroads Microelectronics Commons Hub led by the Applied Research Institute.
- Establish new laboratory space for research related to national security interests.
We are at the forefront of the university, ensuring our students meet evolving workforce demands.
Code19 Autonomous Racing Partnership
For decades, motorsports technology has advanced the consumer automotive industry. I believe that the next iteration is how AI racing will benefit autonomous vehicle technology.
We’ve entered an agreement with Code19 Racing, the world’s first professional autonomous racing team. Luddy will provide their first AI driver. We plan to compete in autonomous racing leagues around the nation and world.
Professor Lantau Lui and the doctoral students in the Vehicle Autonomy and Intelligence Lab (VAIL) are leading this effort, but we are grateful for the many other faculty, students, and staff who are also working on this partnership.
Last week, VAIL students completed a three-day workshop with Code19 and were able to demonstrate the first version of their AI in a simulation racing environment.
IU Idea to Startup Pitch Competition
Three teams with representation from Luddy participated in the IU Idea to Startup Pitch Competition yesterday, hosted by IU Research and IU Innovation and Commercialization Office. Filipi Silva and YY Ahn showcased their approach of using interactive maps to interpret data. Jean Camp and Jacob Abbot presented a new antiphishing platform. Zeb Wood and Tom Hummer pitched a VR platform to help individuals with ADHD.
All the presentations were outstanding, and Zeb and Tom won first prize with an award of $15,000.
These are just a few examples of many ongoing initiatives. For over a year, your remarkable efforts have left me astounded in numerous ways. I am confident that our future is bright, thanks to all your incredible work.
We are finalizing the Strategic Plan that I described in the State of the School address. Keep your eyes open for even more exciting news from Luddy.
As we enter this fall season with crisp mornings, apple cider (perhaps with a spirited twist for those inclined), corn mazes, and Halloween, I encourage you to participate in all the autumnal activities. Take advantage of all the benefits of living in this beautiful part of the country.
Here’s to a wonderful October!
Joanna Millunchick
Dean Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering