Binghamton University Highlights New Professorship in Computer Science
Binghamton University continues to make strides in innovative research with Assistant Professor Jayson Boubin leading the charge in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. Since joining the university’s Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2022, Boubin has focused on advancing drone capabilities, including swarm coordination and real-time sensing integrated with artificial intelligence.
A Generous Endowment
On October 1, Boubin was inaugurated as the first holder of the Geraldine Knoll MacDonald Endowed Professorship in Computer Science, established by internet pioneer Geraldine MacDonald, a Binghamton alumna. MacDonald, who has been instrumental in supporting various campus initiatives for over 40 years, aims to foster the next generation of researchers through this endowed position.
“This professorship is both an endorsement and an investment in the School of Computing,” remarked Boubin during the installation ceremony, emphasizing the importance of nurturing early-career researchers.
Image Credit: Carmela Petruccelli
Celebrating Innovation
MacDonald expressed her commitment to the university, noting, “I want other alums to think the same way: Pay it back or pay it forward.” Her substantial contributions highlight her belief in the transformative power of education.
University President Anne D’Alleva celebrated both Boubin’s notable academic momentum and MacDonald’s unwavering support. “It is so special because you have such deep ties to the University,” she noted, acknowledging MacDonald’s impact.
Image Credit: Carmela Petruccelli
A Vision for the Future
Dean Atul Kelkar emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting rising stars like Boubin. By creating positions like the MacDonald professorship, the university aims to bolster its ability to attract and retain exceptional scholars. Vice President David K. Whitmore reiterated the significant role of endowed positions in the career trajectories of faculty.
Reflecting on her time at Binghamton, MacDonald recalled a logic class that laid the groundwork for her successful tech career. She highlighted how Binghamton has continually been at the forefront of educational offerings, hoping that tradition will continue.
As Boubin and MacDonald pave the way for future innovations, Binghamton University is poised to remain a leader in engineering and technology education.
