Randal D. Pinkett, a graduate student in the Program in Media Arts and Sciences, was named Graduate Student of the Year by the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) at its fourth annual Golden Torch Award ceremony.
Mr. Pinkett is a doctoral candidate at the Media Lab and a member of the Epistemology and Learning Group. His research examines strategies to bridge the "digital divide" -- the disparity in computer access and use among various social, economic and racial groups in the United States. His areas of expertise include asset mapping, community building, community technology and media technology.
"NSBE has been instrumental in my own personal and professional development, while impressing upon me the importance of dedicating my talents in the service of others," Mr. Pinkett said. "My research at the Media Lab is very much a reflection of how NSBE has influenced me. I was honored, and humbled to receive the Graduate Student of theYear award, and am grateful to NSBE for recognizing me."
The winners of the Golden Torch Awards represent a cross-section of academia, industry and government who are dedicated to the ideals reflected in the mission of NSBE: to increase the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.
A version of this article appeared in MIT Tech Talk on May 9, 2001.
