Innovation at HackSI
CARBONDALE, Ill. — November 6, 2023
The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Club at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has earned recognition for its outstanding contribution to technology and innovation at the annual HackSI event, held at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center. This honor highlights the club’s dedication to creative problem-solving, collaboration, and student-led innovation, and reflects the high standards of excellence promoted by the SIU School of Computing.
HackSI is a regional hackathon that brings together students, developers, and technology enthusiasts from across Southern Illinois. It serves as a platform for showcasing innovative ideas, building technical skills, and fostering collaboration among participants. The ACM Club’s success at this event demonstrates their commitment to experiential learning and advancing the field of computing through practical application.
The club’s award-winning project, the Color by Number Pixel Art Generator, impressed judges and attendees alike. This tool allows users to upload images and convert them into pixelated, color-by-number templates. The project blends artistic creativity with computational design, making it both engaging and educational. It also has potential applications in art education, digital design, and accessibility tools for learners of all ages.
“This project exemplifies how computing can intersect with creativity to produce something truly engaging,” said one HackSI Organizer. “It’s exciting to see students using technology to create tools that are both fun and functional.”
In addition to participating in competitions, the ACM Club plays a vital role in mentoring new students, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, and developing leadership skills. Their activities help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers in technology, research, and entrepreneurship.
The club regularly hosts coding workshops, speaker events, and collaborative projects that promote digital literacy and community engagement. These initiatives not only enhance the academic experience for SIU students but also contribute to the broader mission of the School of Computing to foster innovation and inclusivity in the tech sector.
“Being part of the ACM Club has given me the opportunity to grow as a developer and a leader,” said Priya Desai, ACM Club Vice President. “HackSI was an incredible experience for our team, and we’re proud to see our work recognized. We’re excited to keep building tools that inspire creativity and learning.”
The club’s achievements at HackSI reflect the vibrant and inclusive culture fostered within the School of Computing. Their continued success underscores the importance of student organizations in driving innovation and building a strong academic community.
About HackSI: HackSI is an annual regional hackathon hosted in Southern Illinois, encouraging innovation and collaboration among students and professionals in technology.
Media Contact: School of Computing Communications • socinfo@siu.edu