Saint Michael's College

Title: Associate Professor of Computer Science

Education: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Cornell University

Areas of Expertise/Research Interests: Computational optimization and algorithms. Recent applications I have looked at include: self-assembling DNA nanostructures, VLSI chip layout, and unit rectangle visibility graphs.

Testimonial: I am always struck by the number of Saint Michael's students who participate in volunteer activities to make a difference both locally and globally.

What do you like most about teaching/working at Saint Michael's College? I really appreciate the strong sense of community. My classes are small, so I am able to get to know my students well. We are able to have events, such as class dinners, that would not be possible at a larger institution.

What do you like about Saint Michael's students? My students are smart, hardworking, and friendly. I am always impressed, not just by their performance in my classes (which is very good), but by the wide range of their interests beyond the field of computer science.

What is your favorite class to teach, and why? This is a tough question, since I enjoy all of my classes, but if pressed to pick a favorite I would say Data Structures and Algorithms, which is closely tied to my area of research.

What kinds of unique opportunities are available to students in your classes or department? There are many independent study and student research opportunities available that might not be possible at a larger institution. In my five first years at Saint Michael's I have been able to work with 10 students on projects beyond the scope of an ordinary class.

Favorite quote: "Computers are good at following instructions, but not at reading your mind." - D. Knuth

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