Computer Science Professor Receives Regents Recognition for Hands-On Teaching

Etienne Vouga, an assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Texas at Austin, graduated in 2024. Regents’ Distinguished Teaching Award for demonstrating outstanding classroom performance and innovative learning. Vouga is one of 12 recipients this year from the University of Texas System.

“Professor Vouga’s incredible dedication to her students and their academic success is inspiring,” said Rachel Mersey, interim vice president and provost. “There is no greater or better commitment that our faculty members can have than to their students. This award exemplifies the University’s commitment to teaching excellence and innovation, and I am delighted especially that professor Vouga is appreciated for his efforts.

Vouga always wants to understand the learning experience from the perspective of her students. He is dedicated to advancing education, accepting everyone in their studies and setting high expectations but also teaching students the related and intangible skills needed for team and career success. For example, he encourages his undergraduates to relearn how to find resources and understand and implement work on their own.

Presented since 2008, the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award presents the highest teaching honor from the UT System. It is presented annually to faculty members at each academic and health institution. Each recipient receives a certificate, award and $25,000 in recognition of their positive impact on students and their institutions.

“Education excellence is at the heart of our mission, and these winners reflect the highest standards of education,” said UT System Board of Regents Chairman Kevin P. Eltife. “By honoring these 12 educators, we not only celebrate their achievements but also strengthen the UT System’s role in preparing students to excel in and out of the classroom.”

Vouga joined UT Austin’s College of Natural Sciences in 2014, after earning a Ph.D. from Columbia University and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University.

His research focuses on the simulation of the geometry and physics of thin, straight materials – such as cloth, hair and paper – when they wrinkle, fold or strain. Combining his knowledge of computer science, applied physics, geometry and mathematical methods, Vouga develops more accurate, efficient algorithms for simulation and interactive design tools. in them. Special effects studios, such as Disney and Weta Digital, have used his work to create realistic animation and animation for films such as “Tangled” and “The Hobbit.”

Vouga engages students in the classroom with energy and interaction. His classes are well known for being places where students can ask questions and he invites them to do so. This dedication and passion for the success of his students in the classroom often leads undergraduate and graduate students to join Vouga in his research activities. As a mentor, Vouga encourages intellectual interest and academic growth – guiding students on how to approach and overcome problems and reassuring them when research is difficult. He runs reading groups within the department, advises the graduate program and promotes research opportunities on campus.

In addition to teaching each semester, I am the lead coach for the UT Austin chapter of the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) – a student organization that competes in teams of three against other universities to solve real-world problems. it uses algorithmic programming.

“Professor Vouga has earned a reputation for inspiring students to continue to deepen their learning, while working meaningfully and exploring the best way to transfer what they learn to the world,” said David Vanden Bout, a professor in the College of Natural Sciences. “His respectful approach to both students challenges them to stretch and delve into computer graphics, while providing support along the way. I am delighted to see this well-deserved recognition of his work. wonderful in the classroom.”