Spring 2025 | Webb School of Engineering

SPRING 2025

DEAN’S INTRODUCTION From the Dean: It has been another dynamic and exciting year of growth and

transformation for our programs. Our Mechanical, Mechatronic, and General Engineering degree programs officially launched in August 2024, and the inaugural cohort is now concluding their first year. Early indicators suggest that the incoming August

2025 cohort will be even larger—we are excited to welcome these new students to campus soon.

Planning for our new makerspace is nearing completion.

Renovations are scheduled over the summer, and equipment is

already on order to ensure the space is fully functional by August 2025. This facility will play a critical role in supporting hands-on learning and innovation across disciplines.

The continued expansion of our academic programs has driven the need for new faculty across multiple areas. Recent hires include additions to Mathematical Sciences, Computer Science, and Mechanical

Engineering. Notably, the Mechanical Engineering program has welcomed both a founding department

chair and an additional faculty member. We are thrilled to have them join us this August as they continue shaping an innovative curriculum designed to pursue ABET accreditation following the graduation of the first cohort.

Over the past year, we formally pursued ABET accreditation for three of our programs: Electrical

Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Computer Science. While the final decision will be announced at

the commission’s meeting in July, we are highly confident that the next edition of this newsletter will share the exciting news that accreditation has been officially granted.

Michael Oudshoorn Dean, Webb School of Engineering

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DEPARTMENTAL NEWS: Honoring Our Retiring Faculty Dr. McCullough is retiring from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, where she served as the founding department chair. In her six years at HPU, she played a pivotal role in developing the department’s programs and ensuring they met ABET accreditation standards. Her leadership and preparation were instrumental during the successful site visit this past October. Her impact will continue to benefit students and faculty for years to come.

After 37 years of dedicated service to Computer Science at High Point University, Mr. Shore is retiring. Generations of students and alumni will no doubt remember his rigorous classes and high expectations—along with the deep knowledge and critical thinking skills they gained in the process. Mr. Shore’s commitment to excellence has shaped the careers of countless graduates, and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come.

Ms. O’Connor is retiring from the Department of Mathematical Sciences after 16 years of service. A specialist in introductory mathematics and statistics, she has taught students from nearly every major on campus. Her ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible and engaging has left a lasting impression on many students; a significant proportion of whom took their first college math course with her.

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DEPARTMENTAL NEWS: COMPUTER SCIENCE Message from the Chair The Department of Computer Science has continued its upward trajectory this year, marked by growth in student enrollment, strategic faculty hires, exciting academic developments, and outstanding student accomplishments. Enrollment in both Computer Science and Cybersecurity remains strong, and this continued demand has enabled the department to make three new faculty hires for the 2025–26 academic year. These hires are expanding our expertise, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence, and have led to an exciting evolution in our curriculum.

Beginning in August 2026, the B.S. in Data Science will transition to become the B.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This change reflects the program’s growing emphasis on AI-powered approaches to large-scale data analysis, and represents a natural next step for the disciplin. As mentioned in the Dean’s introduction, the department formally pursued ABET accreditation for both the B.S. in Computer Science and the B.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity this past year. The accreditation review visit occurred in October 2024, with the final decision expected in July 2025.

Accreditation is a rigorous process, and I extend my sincere thanks to all faculty members who contributed to this milestone effort. The dedication, collaboration, and teamwork displayed throughout the process have been truly commendable.

Michael Oudshoorn Chair, Computer Science

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Cybersecurity Major Competes in U.S. Cyber Challenge Giovanni Centofanti, a senior cybersecurity major, was selected to compete in the U.S. Cyber Challenge (USCC), which serves as the premier program to identify, attract, train, recruit and place the next generation of cybersecurity professionals into the workforce.

Centofanti was one of 200 students selected to attend a four-day camp, where they were grouped into teams of four for an eight-hour capture-theflag (CTF) competition. His team won first place for the Western regional, and the top three teams advanced to the U.S. Cyber Bowl, a 24-hour CTF competition in Washington, D.C. Centofanti’s team finished in second place.

Student Team Earns National Cybersecurity Ranking HPU students coached by Roger Shore, an associate professor of computer science, recently achieved the university’s highest team ranking at a National Cyber League (NCL) competition when they placed 43rd at the Fall 2024 competition. HPU has participated since 2022 in the NCL competition that contains real-world cybersecurity tasks that professionals perform daily. HPU’s students earned an overall ranking of 63rd for their performance in individual and other events. The national Cyber Power Rankings included more than 9,260 students from more than 550 colleges and universities. The NCL helps to reinforce what students have learned about cybersecurity and develop their necessary skills for the workforce. They also earn a skills report that recognizes their abilities and demonstrates their job readiness to employers.

“This nationwide competition makes it publicly known that High Point University offers an excellent degree in cybersecurity,” Shore said. “Companies will take notice of the students that do well in the competition.”

Students Cole Apke, Giovanni Centofanti, Danny Tandet, Holly Black, Amir Hamidpour and Rebecca Boorse were recognized for their outstanding performance. Members of the second HPU team were Dillon Peed, Aniley Garcia, Kamryn Wagner and Gianna Hassig. HPU students’ collaborative effort and dedication to the competition is worthy of praise, said NCL Commissioner David Zelchick.

“It is with our highest recommendation that students from High Point University be recognized for their admirable achievement that showcased their individual skills, collaborative performance and desire to grow and learn as cybersecurity professionals,” Zelchick said. “We would also recommend the recognition of Professor Roger Shore for his dedication, support and encouragement that has enabled the success of the students from High Point University.”

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Students Awarded for Research Presentations TTwo HPU computer and data science students won awards for their research presentations at the Mid-Southeast Regional Conference on Nov. 14-16, 2024, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Undergraduate students had the option to present their research with a poster or a paper at the conference.

Alexa Dandrea, a senior dual major in computer science and mathematics, won second place for her poster presentation, “Measuring the Quality of Code Generated by AI Platforms.” She said the experience of presenting research will help with her future education and career plans.

“Receiving acknowledgement for my effort and the passion that I have for the topic provides encouragement and motivation for me to continue my research,” said Dandrea, who is from Summerville, South Carolina. “It shows me that what I am doing is important and can have an impact on the field of computer science. I plan on continuing my education in graduate school, and so having this experience in presenting my own research will be great in preparing to defend my thesis."

Ky Nguyen, a senior majoring in data science with minors in mathematics and economics, earned third place for her paper presentation, “Optimized ThreeLayer Hyperspectral Image Classification Model.”

“The skills I developed through presenting my research will benefit me in graduate school and the workforce, helping me communicate effectively and present my knowledge,” said Nguyen, who is from High Point. “Additionally, the networking opportunities have given me insight into the perspectives of fellow students and introduced me to the work being done in the real world and in graduate studies.”

HPU alumna Rebecca Boorse, who graduated in December 2024, and students Ash Corcoran, Owen Kelly and Sam Zito also presented their research during the conference.

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DEPARTMENTAL NEWS: MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES Message from the Chair

by Dr. Jenny Sharpe

Hello from the Department of Mathematical Sciences! It’s been a busy year in our department, as we focus on recruiting students to our majors and building community among our majors.

This year, our students have been involved with conferences on campus, data competitions, research endeavors with faculty, and internships around the country. Of course, this is all while they work hard inside the classroom. Also, we’ve been pleased to welcome mathematical sciences alumni back to the department to engage with current students, and we look forward to continuing this tradition in years to come.

As this academic year closes, we will be saying “happy retirement!” to Ms. Pat O’Connor, a valued instructor in our department. Pat has been teaching math and statistics for 40 years, we have been fortunate that last 16 of those have been at HPU. We will miss her, and we wish her the very best in retirement.

In other faculty news, in January, we welcomed Ms. Julia Christman to our faculty. Julia joined us from Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio. Welcome, Julie! Please reach out to me at jsharpe1@highpoint.edu with opportunities or ideas related to mathematics, mathematical economics, actuarial science, or data analytics and statistics. I’d love to hear from you!

Dr. Jenny Sharpe

Dr. Jenny Sharpe Chair and Professor of Mathematical Sciences

The Actuarial Exam Process – by Annie Sellenberg

By Annie Sellenberg There is no shortcut to success in the actuarial exam process. Hard work, commitment, and perseverance are all necessary to push through the many hours of independent study that are required to prepare for each of the exams. The actuarial exams are the groundwork for solidifying a career path as an actuary and to be a strong candidate for internships and fulltime jobs.

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Throughout my two summer internships at Zurich Insurance, passing exams was not just encouraged but expected for advancement, and even passing one exam shows employers that you’re serious, capable, and ready to handle complex analytical work in the industry and contribute at a higher level. I had to show I was capable of handling the rigorous content and time commitment that the exams required to grow within the field and earn respect among professionals.

Having studied for and passed both Exam FM (Financial Mathematics) and Exam P (Probability), I can confidently say that the process was demanding, both intellectually and emotionally. Balancing a full course load as a double major, part-time work, and studying for exams required me to plan ahead and remain disciplined, even when my motivation tank was empty. There were countless times I needed to say no to social events or scale back on other activities to study. There were also countless times when I didn’t grasp a concept right away and had to slow down, review core concepts again, and give myself some grace. I had to practice patience- the material required repeated exposure over time, and only time would allow me to understand and retain the information. I learned the importance of stepping back to remain centered and avoid burnout, which ultimately helped me progress.

The rewarding moment when you receive the “passing slip” is an unmatched feeling. It gave me the boost of confidence that I needed and validated all the effort I had put in for months. The typical candidate studies about 100 hours for every hour of the exam- that equates to 250 hours for Exam FM and 300 hours for Exam P. Having the exams under my belt made a difference in how I was viewed as a candidate, and it gave me a competitive edge throughout my internships at Zurich Insurance. Not only that, but the exams reaffirmed to me that I am capable of handling the challenges associated with a career in actuarial science and analytical roles.

Actuaries are self-driven individuals who thrive off challenges and opportunities to grow. For those planning to sit for actuarial exams, build a study schedule ahead of time and treat it as an additional course at school. Put in the study hours and hold yourself accountable, but allow for adjustments along the way. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Prioritize comprehending the content rather than concentrating on memorizing procedures or formulas. But above all, remain grounded. Remaining a well-rounded human along the way matters more than a passing grade on an actuarial exam, and it’s okay to take a break when needed. Progress isn’t always linear, but if you keep pushing forward,

High Point hosts Mathematical Association of America Southeastern Conference

By Dr. Jenny Sharpe

During our 2025 spring break, mathematical sciences faculty and students were hard at work preparing to host the Mathematical Association of America Southeast (MAA-SE) conference. This conference is a gathering of mathematics and statistics faculty and students from a 5-state region, and the 2025 gathering brought over 300 guests to HPU’s campus during the second weekend of HPU’s spring break.

Some of our mathematical sciences majors cut their spring break early to come back for the conference. They participated in a Math Jeopardy! competition, attended research talks, and some Dr. Adam presented theirPennell own research work. They also made connections with students from other school from around the region.

Our faculty team worked hard to organize all the weekend’s logistics to ensure conference participants had a good experience on our campus. Alumni reading this note may recall a longstanding tradition of attending the MAA-SE conference in years past. This tradition was paused for a few years due to COVID, but we are pleased to have it renewed. Our students are already talking about the trip next year.

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FACULTY FEATURE

Dr. Brielle Spencer-Tyree Dr. Brielle Spencer-Tyree is an Assistant Professor in Mathematics.

She is passionate about teaching statistical literacy again because it’s incredibly relevant in today’s world. Statistical literacy helps students learn how to critically interpret and question that information empowers them to make informed decisions, not just in academics, but in everyday life.

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What motivated you to choose your field of practice and what do you enjoy about it?

I primarily teach general education mathematics courses, most often The Math of Life and Statistical Literacy. I enjoy teaching these classes because I have the opportunity to work with students who may only take one college-level math course and who might not begin with a positive view of the subject. It’s rewarding to introduce them to mathematical ideas that are often entirely new and potentially transformative for their perspective on math.

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I’m excited about teaching statistical literacy again because it’s incredibly relevant in today’s world.

We’re constantly surrounded by news headlines, polls, studies, and data-driven claims. Statistical literacy helps students learn how to critically interpret and question that information empowers them to make informed decisions, not just in academics, but in everyday life.

Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of work that you would like to share?

Outside of work I enjoying hanging out with my three dogs, cooking for those I love, and playing pickleball

What are your current research interests?

This also connects to my research, which broadly focuses on how various classroom interventions and experiences can influence both students’ understanding of mathematical concepts and their attitudes toward mathematics.

What are you most excited about in regards to the upcoming semester?

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If you could go back in time, what, if anything, would you do differently as a student?

As a college athlete, I filled nearly every minute of my day with practices, classes, and studying, so if I could go back in time, I would make more time to slow down a bit. While I’m proud of the discipline and time management I developed, I’ve since learned how important it is to carve out time to rest and recharge.

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Cole Apke B.S Computer Science 2025 1.

What are you studying at HPU?

I am studying Computer Science with a concentration in 2.

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Cybersecurity.

Why did you choose HPU?

Before my freshman year, I visited several schools, but what first drew me to HPU was the beauty of the campus. I loved the scenery; it was one of the few places I could truly see myself enjoying every day. During my visits, the people I met made me feel like more than just a number, which really stood out. I also discovered that Couch Hall, where I’d be spending most of my time studying, was equipped with some of the most advanced technology in the country.

What interests do you have outside of your major?

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I’m a big sports fan, especially football and basketball. I love watching games, keeping up with the teams, especially our basketball and sports teams, and staying active myself. I make it a priority to stay in shape by going to the gym, lifting, and running regularly. While it’s somewhat connected to my major, I genuinely enjoy competing in cybersecurity competitions.

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Since this is my last semester before graduating in a few weeks, the biggest challenge has definitely been my final capstone project. It's designed to demonstrate everything we've learned over the last four years, and it really pushed me. The project required using coding languages I wasn't deeply familiar with, so I essentially had to “speed run” learning them, diving into documentation, tutorials, and sometimes trial-and-error, especially when debugging.

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Are you involved in any activities on campus? In what capacity?

What are some of the challenges that you have faced or overcome this semester?

What do you hope to do with your degree when you graduate?

I look to start in the I.T. and cybersecurity field.

My dream job out of college is to become a Cybersecurity Engineer. I want to build and assess secure systems and keep a company's digital footprint safe from outsiders.

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I have been involved in the computer science club that has been focused on cybersecurity and ethical hacking. We have competed in a couple of competitions and placing well against bigger schools and Universities. I was also Vice-president of this club for a while. I have also played intramural sports such as basketball for all 4 years I have been here.

What advice would you like to share with your peers or with future students?

There is no limit to what you can do here. There are ample opportunities to make a name for yourself and a name for the school. This place is growing rapidly whether you see it or not. There is also nothing you can’t do with some hard work and talking to a couple of people. Professors, faculty, and peers here are so anxious to help and see you thrive. Professors want nothing but the best for you and to share their vast basins of knowledge with the younger generation. Soak it all in and enjoy the experience here, it's unlike any other. Besides, those 4 years go by fast, you don’t want to miss it.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Ash Corcoran

B.S COMPUTER SCIENCE, 2025

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What are you studying at HPU?

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I'm majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Neuroscience.

Why did you choose HPU?

I chose HPU because I truly believe that small class sizes and close interaction with professors are essential to a great education. One of my favorite things about the Computer Science department is how close-knit it is—I've always felt comfortable dropping by a professor's office with questions or ideas.

What interests do you have outside of your major?

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Outside of academics, I love to garden and do pottery. Since I spend so much time in front of screens, I try to get outside and be creative whenever I can.

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This semester has been especially busy—I've been juggling classes, work, and preparing for life after graduation. Time management has definitely been a challenge!

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What are some of the challenges that you have faced or overcome this semester?

What do you hope to do with your degree when you graduate?

My post-grad plan has always been to work as an AI developer, as my research has focused on machine learning. Fortunately, I had a great chat over coffee with one of our Innovators in Residence, Jinan Glasgow George, about the future of AI and intellectual property. That conversation led to a job offer, and I joined her company, Patent Forecast, as an AI Software Engineer in January.

As of March, I’ve been promoted to CTO, and I’ll be continuing full time after graduation!

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Are you involved in any activities on campus?In what capacity

On campus, I’ve had the chance to get involved in several ways. I served as President of the HPU Minds Club (AKA the Woz Project) for two years, where I led projects like using a Brain-Machine Interface to control a robot. While I’ve since passed on that role, I continue to serve as a Senior Resident Assistant, supervising Finch, Millis, and Wilson Halls. Supporting the freshmen communities has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at HPU.

What advice would you like to share with your peers or with future students?

My biggest piece of advice? Take advantage of the many incredible resources and opportunities HPU offers. I’ve been lucky to work on meaningful projects and even find my dream job—just by saying yes and putting myself out there.

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