Pittsburgh Review

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 School of Computer Science, 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 expressed her commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing challenges by joining the American Academy of Arts & Sciences. Academy President David Oxtoby stated, "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."

Blum joins the ranks of 250 new members elected to the academy this year, recognized for their excellence and invited to uphold the academy's mission of engaging across disciplines and divides. The induction ceremonies for new members will take place in September in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Lenore Blum's election to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences is a testament to her outstanding contributions to computer science, advocacy for women in STEM fields, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.