40th Anniversary Celebration: Department of Computer Science
Nov. 6 | 5-8:30 p.m. | Putnam County Convention Center
Register to Attend
We can't wait to celebrate 40 years of innovation, achievement and community in the Department of Computer Science on the day before Tennessee Tech Homecoming! Please join us for this special evening. Your registration gift of $40 per person will support the Mark Boshart and Martha Kosa Academic Excellence Scholarship, which helps outstanding computer science students pursue their degrees at Tennessee Tech. Come celebrate our shared history, reconnect with friends and colleagues, and make an investment in the students who will shape the future of computing. We're awarding the first five scholarships at our 40th anniversary celebration!
An Evening to Remember
We’re building a memorable celebration for our alumni and computer science community, beginning with a reception to give guests time to reconnect and explore historical displays. A plated dinner will follow. The evening will feature opening remarks from Department Chair Gerald Gannod, Ph.D., and Tennessee Tech President Phil Oldham, a special "40 Years of Computer Science" video, keynote remarks from Mark Rigney ['86], a "then and now" alumni conversation and presentation of the inaugural Mark Boshart and Martha Kosa Academic Excellence Scholarship.
Keynote Speaker: Mark Rigney ’86
We are pleased to welcome computer science alumnus Mark Rigney to our 40th anniversary celebration. As our keynote speaker, Rigney will reflect on his Tennessee Tech experience, share lessons from his career at the forefront of technology and offer his perspective on the future of computing and artificial intelligence. Rigney, who retired from full-time corporate leadership in 2026, built an accomplished career spanning four decades in software development, aerospace, defense technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, product development and executive leadership. His leadership roles with Jacobs, MAG Aerospace, Equitus.ai and other organizations included directing major technology and cybersecurity operations supporting critical national defense missions. Among his proudest accomplishments was leading global network, communications and technology efforts for U.S. Special Operations, overseeing approximately 1,400 technology, computer science, cyber and engineering professionals across more than 50 locations worldwide. Today, Rigney serves as a business and technology advisor and chairman of the board of Ascend Federal Credit Union. He also remains closely connected to Tennessee Tech as chair of the Department of Computer Science External Advisory Board.
Honor the Past
What’s an anniversary celebration without photos from days gone by? Help us tell the story of 40 years of Tennessee Tech Computer Science by sharing your photos and memories to be featured during the celebration.
Can't Attend? You Can Still Make a Difference.
Even if you can't join us for the Department of Computer Science's 40th anniversary celebration on Nov. 6, you can still help us honor the legacy of two beloved computer science professors emerita. Your gift to the Mark Boshart and Martha Kosa Academic Excellence Scholarship helps provide opportunities for outstanding computer science students for years to come. How to make a gift:
- Visit Tennessee Tech Online Giving
- Select “other”
- Enter “Boshart Kosa Academic Excellence Scholarship”
Welcome Home
Planning a trip back to Cookeville for our 40th anniversary celebration? Here’s what you need to know about lodging, dining and local attractions to help you make the most of your return to campus. Remember to book your lodging early since this event is happening during Homecoming weekend!
Don't Be A Stranger
Stay connected with Tennessee Tech and your fellow Golden Eagles. Update your contact information so you can receive Department of Computer Science event invitations and alumni updates.
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