Lenore Blum Elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Friday, April 26, 2024 - by Aaron Aupperlee

Lenore Blum, a foundational researcher in computer science at CMU and a tireless advocate for women in math and science, has been elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences.

Lenore Blum, a foundational researcher in computer science at Carnegie Mellon University and a tireless advocate for women in math and science, has been elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences.

Blum, who retired from CMU in 2019, was a professor in the Computer Science Department, the founding director of Project Olympus, and co-director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Her research focused on developing a theory of computation and complexity over real and complex numbers, combining ideas from mathematics and computer science. She is currently working on a mathematical model of consciousness.

Blum also worked to increase the participation of women in math and science. She founded Women@SCS and was a founder and past president of the Association for Women in Mathematics. In 2004, President George Bush presented her with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.

Blum was one of 250 new members elected to the academy this year. Members are recognized for their excellence and invited to uphold the academy's mission of engaging across disciplines and divides. She joins the world's most accomplished scholars, scientists, writers, artists and civic leaders.

"We honor these artists, scholars, scientists and leaders in the public, nonprofit and private sectors for their accomplishments and for the curiosity, creativity and courage required to reach new heights," said Academy President David Oxtoby. "We invite these exceptional individuals to join in the academy's work to address serious challenges and advance the common good."

Induction ceremonies for new members will take place in September in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Learn more about the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and its members on the academy's website.

For more information, Contact:
Aaron Aupperlee | 412-268-9068 | aaupperlee@cmu.edu