News
A team of standout students from the School of Data Science (SDS) at UNC Charlotte achieved third place in the prestigious Women in Data Science (WiDS) University Datathon 2026 Challenge. Our students competed against over twenty students from Tecnológico de Monterrey, Northeastern University, University of San Francisco, Georgia Tech, and Santa Clara University. The team […]
Students in DTSC 4302: Data Science for Social Good showcased how data-driven approaches can be used to better understand and address real-world challenges across a wide range of industries. From natural disasters to criminal justice, each project highlighted the power of data science in creating meaningful social impact. Overall, these presentations demonstrated the versatility of […]
Chase Romano’s career reflects a unique blend of education, data science, and AI-driven innovation. Beginning his professional journey as a high school teacher, Romano spent five years in the classroom developing a strong foundation in communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. While teaching remained a passion, he also developed a growing interest in data science and model […]
From unraveling the laws of physics to tackling the complex challenges of misinformation and online fraud, Keith Burghardt’s academic journey reflects a deep curiosity about how systems—both physical and social—work at their core. Today, his research sits at the intersection of data science, machine learning, and social impact, with a focus on understanding and reducing […]
Dr. Michael Schuckers has built an impressive career at the intersection of statistics, data science, and real-world application—ranging from sports analytics to biometric security. His journey into the field began with a natural affinity for mathematics and early inspiration from both family and educators. Growing up, his father encouraged a probabilistic way of thinking about […]
After a successful 15-year career in fintech operations in India, Geetha Marri made a life-changing decision: she moved to the United States to pursue a new path in data science and business analytics. The choice meant leaving behind her family—including her 10-year-old daughter—a sacrifice she describes as the most difficult of her life. Yet she […]
Sushma Akula, a native of Hyderabad, India, and a December 2025 graduate, now holds a master’s degree in health informatics and analytics from UNC Charlotte. An international student navigating a new country, Sushma has transformed challenges into opportunities, combining her background in healthcare with cutting-edge data science skills. “I shifted from pharmacy to data science […]
When Kassandra Poole first visited UNC Charlotte, she knew she had found the right place. Coming from Raeford, North Carolina, she was drawn to the university’s diverse and welcoming community—an environment she felt would help her grow both personally and professionally. Now pursuing a graduate degree in health informatics & data analytics, Kassandra graduated in […]
For Savanah Manns, choosing UNC Charlotte meant finding the perfect balance between strong academics, natural surroundings, and career opportunity. A Charlotte native who also spent a semester at Appalachian State, Savanah wanted to study in a growing city where she could build meaningful professional connections while continuing to explore her interests. Now a graduate at […]
The UNC Charlotte School of Data Science is pleased to highlight Professor Ilieva Ageenko’s leadership, industry knowledge, and educational influence. Her work places SDS at the forefront of applied data science education. Bringing executive expertise from driving digital transformation at top U.S. financial institutions, Professor Ageenko plays a significant role in bridging corporate strategy, artificial […]
Artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping our world faster than ever imagined. From medical offices and banking institutions to universities and beyond, AI is now used as a tool to accelerate and streamline processes across industries. But is it really simplifying or enhancing our lives – and who gets to be a part of the […]
Director and Professor, School of Data Science | UNC Charlotte The School of Data Science at UNC Charlotte is proud to highlight the leadership, scholarship, and impact of Dr. Dongsong Zhang, whose work continues to shape SDS as a national leader in data science education, research, and community engagement. As Director and Professor, Dr. Zhang […]