Significant Bits Magazine
Winter 2025–2026
About
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For over 25 years, Significant Bits magazine has been keeping the UMass Amherst Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences community connected with news and stories that highlight the groundbreaking work of our talented students, faculty, staff, and alumni, and explore the ideas and innovations driving our global impact in service of the common good.
Significant Bits is the signature publication of the college and is published annually in print and online by the Communications Office.
Look inside the Winter 2025–2026 issue: View PDF
In this Issue
From Governors Drive
Dean's Letter
Keith Marzullo reflects on community, momentum, and the future of computing at Manning CICS.
Bits
Peer-Powered Pedagogy
Peer instructors are transforming classrooms at Manning CICS—building skills, confidence, and a culture of collaboration.
Long Read
Pioneering AI Research
From pioneering theory to global impact, UMass researchers have helped shape reinforcement learning—and the future of AI.
Long Read
Introducing Keith Marzullo
From astrophysics to national policy to academia, Marzullo brings a collaborative vision for Manning CICS and its future.
For the Common Good
Celebrating a Decade of Growth and Impact
Ten years of expansion in programs, people, and purpose have shaped Manning CICS into a college with growing global reach.
Giving
Investing in Tomorrow’s Innovators
Scholarships and donor support are expanding access to computing education and preparing the next generation of technology leaders.
Giving
College Welcomes New Executive Director of Development
Ben Stickan joins Manning CICS to strengthen partnerships and support the college’s next phase of growth.
Giving
Why I Give: Giving Back to Our Community
Advisory Board Member Renu Chipalkatti ’87MS shares her perspective on gratitude, mentorship, and the power of sustained support.
Giving
Growing Together
Graduating seniors are building a new tradition of giving that connects each class and supports the students who follow.
Alumni Focus
Lessons from a CICS Alum
Alumnus Kevin Gurney reflects on community, curiosity, and the experiences that shaped his path from Manning CICS student to software engineer.
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