In memory of Vivian R. Borst, family and friends have donated money to create a scholarship fund for undergraduate women in computer science. The scholarship is a very fitting tribute to a woman who improved the climate for women in the department in many lasting ways.

As a student in computer science, Vivian led and encouraged other women through her work as an undergraduate advisor. After receiving her bachelor's degree, she launched her graduate career in 1998. She brought her characteristic enthusiasm to research in machine learning methods as part of an National Science Foundation-funded project.

"In the year she had worked on the project, Vivian developed several novel approaches, especially in the area of incremental updating schemes" Professor Daniel Boley said. "She was the driving force behind many of the activities in the project -- organizing group seminars, exploring new applications, trying out new ideas, and getting others interested in working on the project."

Vivian's initiative also turned a desire for a women's group in computer science into a reality. Independently, she sought and won a grant from the Office for University Women for a one-year program beginning April 1999. The grant paid for luncheons and speakers who focused on women in the field. Under Vivian's leadership, the luncheons provided a safe atmosphere for women to share their experiences in navigating through a predominantly male field and to develop personal relationships, even across cultures. The sense of community fostered by the program has significantly changed the departmental climate for graduate women in particular. Efforts are being made to secure financial support for next year; however, the group will continue to meet with or without formal support.

Vivian began the program to address the issues that contribute to retention and recruitment of women in computer science. The scholarship, initiated by husband Jerry Houston following her death in April, complements this program and continues her efforts to encourage women to pursue a degree in computer science.

All contributions to the scholarship fund are greatly appreciated. Checks made out to the University of Minnesota Foundation, with a notation the contribution is for the Women in Computing Scholarship, can be sent to:

Women in Computing Scholarship
Computer Science and Engineering
4-192 EE/CS Building
200 Union Street S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55455

For larger donations, please contact Jennifer Clarke at the Institute of Technology, 612-626-9354.

-Amy Larson and Peg Howland