Nella Ludlow named director of WSU Data Analytics program

EVERETT. Wash. – Feb. 22, 2018 – Nella Ludlow has been named director of the interdisciplinary data analytics undergraduate degree program for Washington State University (WSU). Ludlow, who is based at WSU Everett, is a clinical professor in computer science with a background in artificial intelligence research and real-world data technology.

Prior to joining the WSU faculty in 2016, Ludlow served as a U.S. Air Force scientist for 16 years. Her assignments included working at two national laboratories in information technology and medical/human factors, and as an assistant professor at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. After retiring from the military, she successfully led three technology research companies, one of which won $35M in military research and development contracts in less than a decade.

Ludlow earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physical sciences at WSU Pullman, completed a master’s in computer science at Wright State University, and received her Ph.D. in artificial intelligence from the University of Edinburgh. She completed her post-doctoral studies at Cambridge University.

“Nella’s public- and private-sector experience have made her an incredible resource to our students in Everett,” Chancellor Paul Pitre said. “She will capably serve WSU students and industry partners for WSU system-wide.”

The WSU data analytics program is offered jointly by the College of Arts and Sciences and the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture at three WSU campuses: Pullman, Everett and Global. Ludlow is in Pullman regularly to teach hybrid courses, including this semester’s Professional Skills in Computing and Engineering (CPTS 302) course.

The advisory board for the program boasts big data leaders from The Boeing Company, Microsoft, Tableau Software, Google, Informatica, Moss Adams, Matisia and PEMCO Insurance.