May 23, 2011 - Claremont, Calif. -

Michael Erlinger, professor of computer science and outgoing chair of the Computer Science Department, was recently named the recipient of Harvey Mudd College's 2011 Henry T. Mudd Prize.

Erlinger, who became department chair in 2001 and is a longtime Clinic advisor, studies computer networking and computer education. In recent years, his research has moved away from networking security and management to ways to infuse computer science into the K-12 education arena. He is co-project director with Elizabeth Sweedyk, associate professor of computer science, of a $580,033 grant from The National Science Foundation to advance a software development model that engages college and middle-school students. The three-year grant for “The Games Network: Games for Students, Games by Students” challenges HMC computer science students to develop educational games based upon learning objectives set by real-world customers: middle-school social studies teachers. He is also working with computer science Professor Zachary Dodds on development of a computer science course aimed at middle school students. Erlinger, Dodds and Sweedyk hope to shatter stereotypes about the computer science field by introducing younger students to the fun, creative side of software development and computer science.

Following is the text of the citation that was awarded by President Maria Klawe to Erlinger:

"For his exemplary service to Harvey Mudd College spanning three decades, during which he served with commitment, kindness, passion, collegiality and expertise;

For his selfless dedication to the mission, quality and overall good of this institution;

For his efforts to recruit outstanding colleagues while increasing the size and quality of his department, widely-recognized for its leadership in undergraduate education and research;

For serving on a countless number of important ad hoc and administrative search committees;

For his supportive and energetic leadership and creative thinking on a great variety of academic program initiatives;

For his success in increasing the number and diversity of the students in his department while offering students new opportunities such as joint majors and research opportunities;

For his active outreach to the community involving much-needed engagement with local primary and secondary schools;

For his leadership on the Department Chairs Committee and his willingness to seek the good of the entire College;

For his tireless efforts to build computing facilities and the necessary study and work space for the students;

For being among the first computer scientists at Harvey Mudd College and instrumental in building the Computer Science department, having joined the College eleven years prior to the establishment of the department, and for serving recently as Department Chair for 10 years.

Michael Erlinger, Professor of Computer Science and Chair, is hereby designated as the 2011 recipient of the Henry T. Mudd Prize."

The Henry T. Mudd Prize is awarded each year at commencement to a member of the college community whose service to the college and its mission is exemplary. Henry T. Mudd (1913-1990), the son of Harvey S. Mudd, was instrumental in the creation and early development of the college named for his father. He served as a founding trustee and chair of the board for 23 years.