Second Prize in ACM Student Research Competition - Tapia Conference 2023

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Last Updated: Oct 28, 2025, 02:22 PM

SIU Computer Science Student Wins Second Prize at National ACM Research Competition

CARBONDALE, Ill. — 2023

SIU Computer Science student Saika Zaman presenting research at the Tapia Conference SRC
Saika Zaman at the CMD-IT/ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing (Dallas, Texas).

Saika Zaman, a master’s student in Computer Science at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, earned Second Prize in the ACM Student Research Competition (SRC) at the CMD-IT/ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference in Dallas, Texas. The Tapia Conference is one of the nation’s premier gatherings celebrating diversity in computing, drawing students, faculty, researchers, and industry leaders from across the United States.

Saika’s project was selected through a competitive review and showcased over two days. In the first round, she presented her research during a poster session evaluated by a panel of ten judges. Her clear communication and technical depth advanced her to the finals, where she delivered an engaging oral presentation before a panel of five judges.

The competition featured students from leading universities nationwide. First Prize was awarded to a participant from Carnegie Mellon University, and Third Prize went to Colorado State University, underscoring the high caliber of this national event.

Saika’s achievement reflects her dedication and the strong culture of mentorship and research excellence within SIU’s School of Computing. The School congratulates Saika on this remarkable accomplishment and thanks everyone—faculty mentors, peers, and staff—who supported her journey.

“We are incredibly proud of Saika’s accomplishment. Her success at a national venue like Tapia highlights the quality of our students and our commitment to inclusive excellence in computing.”
— Dr. Chun-Hsi Huang
    Director, School of Computing

About the Tapia Conference: The CMD-IT/ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference recognizes, celebrates, and connects diverse people in computing.

Media Contact: School of Computing Communications • socinfo@siu.edu