Penn-o-rama

New Degrees for the Future

With artificial intelligence (AI) becoming an increasing presence in people’s daily lives, Penn Engineering has announced the launch of two new AI degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Artificial Intelligence and an online Master of Science in Engineering in Artificial Intelligence. These new programs are each the first of their kind at an Ivy League university. The two new degrees were made possible by the generosity of Raj and Neera Singh, who are visionaries in technology and a force for innovation through their philanthropy. Their gift provides funding for the leadership, faculty, and infrastructure of these degree programs.

A conceptual image depicting the interaction between a human hand and a robotic hand, set against a futuristic digital background filled with circuit diagrams and data streams. The focal point is where the fingertips of the human and robot touch, symbolizing the integration and harmony between human intelligence and artificial intelligence.

A Winning Legacy

Andy Ma, the Young Family Head Fencing Coach, has created a winning legacy for the Penn men’s and women’s fencing teams, accumulating more than 500 combined wins during his career. Endowed funds like the Young Family Head Fencing Coach are helping the programs flourish. In 2024, Coach Ma was selected as the Ivy League Women’s Fencing Coach of the Year—his fifth such honor for either team.

A focused middle-aged fencing coach wearing a gray and red team jacket with 'Fencing' embroidered on it, stands with his arms crossed in a gymnasium. He is observing a group of young athletes discussing strategy in the background.

Celebrating Extraordinary Educators: Penn GSE’s McGraw Prize in Education

Last fall, the three winners of the 2023 McGraw Prize in Education—David Wilson (third from left below), Debra Duardo (center), and Barbara Oakley (fourth from right)—were honored at a ceremony at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City.

The McGraw Prize, which is housed at Penn’s Graduate School of Education, recognizes educators who are propelling their field forward. It is widely considered the equivalent of the Nobel Prize for education. Most recently, support from the Harold W. McGraw Family Foundation is strengthening Penn GSE’s partnership with the Prize and establishing a new center for educational leadership.

A group of eight individuals pose for a formal photo in an ornate room with rich wood paneling and golden chandeliers.

“The Illuminated Body” Shines at the Arthur Ross Gallery

Opening to a crowd, the Philadelphia debut of multidisciplinary artist Barbara Earl Thomas was a glowing success. Suffused with light and vibrancy, Thomas’s monumental cut-paper portraits evolve traditional styles of portraiture and offer intimate depictions of their subjects.

The exhibition was on view at the Arthur Ross Gallery through May 21 and was supported by the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage and the Sachs Program for Arts Innovation.

A woman, dressed in a red shirt and white overalls, stands mesmerized by an intricate wall art display featuring a complex pattern of golden spirals and floral motifs.