Former Students honored at computer science banquet

Dr. Gerald Pitts '71 and Dr. Ronnie Ward '73 received Distinguished Former Student Awards at the Department of Computer Science's annual Spring Banquet and Awards Ceremony April 29 at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Center in College Station.

Pitts, the Caruth Distinguished Professor and Department of Computer Science chair at Trinity University, pioneered the concept of shared microcomputer Virtual Reality interface with simulation models. Throughout his career, Pitts has provided outstanding administrative leadership, developed innovative teaching methods, has become an expert in his area of research, and most importantly, has made lasting friendships with his students and colleagues.

Ward is recognized for his notable achievements and substantial influence in the computer industry and computer science education. He is a strong supporter of Texas A&M. Ward spearheaded establishment of a local Compaq Research and Development Center (now HP at Research Park) and contributed to the professional development of many former students whose careers began with Compaq.

Commemorative plaques were presented to Pitts and Ward by Dr. Valerie Taylor, head of the Department of Computer Science and holder of the Royce E. Wisenbaker Professorship, and Isaac Aholu, president of the Computer Science Graduate Student Association. In addition to the plaques, $1,000 Distinguished Former Student Scholarships in honor of Pitts and Ward were awarded to Christopher Andrew Walker, a computer science senior, and Heejin Lim, a computer science graduate student.