Houston, Texas, Nov. 26, 2024 – Houston Christian University (HCU) and the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign joined forces to accelerate advanced computing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science to empower and shape the next generation of world changers through joint strategic projects in teaching, research and service.
The collaboration allows the universities to explore and engage in research initiatives utilizing resources from the NCSA with the aim of enhancing competitiveness in the global marketplace.
“By applying classroom theories to real-world scenarios, we can make a tangible impact that benefits our environment and society. It is an exciting opportunity to foster innovation and academic excellence, and we look forward to the valuable outcomes this partnership will produce,” said Dr. James Steen, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing at HCU.
The initiative will position the institutions to collaborate on a range of strategic projects, including the education and training of highly qualified personnel; co-hosting lectures, meetings, seminars and conferences; collaboration on capacity building initiatives and sharing information and expertise on technology developments.
Dr. Volodymyr Kindratenko, Director of the Center for AI Innovation at NCSA, welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with HCU.
“With this partnership, we are looking at joint AI research projects with HCU that align with our expertise and capabilities. We’re also eager to explore joint funding opportunities as well as potential industry partnerships,” said Dr. Kindratenko.
Dr. Zadok Hakim, Associate Provost for Online Technology at HCU, looks forward to the impactful work that will emerge and called collaboration between institutions “vital” (particularly in innovation and technology) to address complex societal and environmental challenges.
“By bringing together diverse perspectives, knowledge and resources, we can achieve outcomes far beyond what any one institution could accomplish alone. This partnership with the University of Illinois’ National Center for Supercomputing Applications provides a unique platform for our faculty and students to explore cutting-edge technologies while advancing shared goals,” said Dr. Hakim.
The agreement commenced on Oct. 30, 2024, and will remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2028, subject to the consent of each educational institution.
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About the National Center for Supercomputing Applications
The National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides supercomputing and advanced digital resources for the nation’s science enterprise. At NCSA, University of Illinois faculty, staff, students and collaborators from around the globe use these resources to address research challenges for the benefit of science and society. NCSA has been advancing many of the world’s industry giants for over 35 years by bringing industry, researchers and students together to solve grand challenges at rapid speed and scale.
About Houston Christian University
For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate, and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, HCU’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world. For more information, visit HC.edu.