The School of Data Science provides a space for researchers and guest speakers to come together and collaborate. Annual events such as Datapalooza and Women in Data Science are hosted within the building, along with a giant data sculpture that serves as an interactive art piece displaying different types of data. According to Burgess, the sculpture showcases information related to Alzheimer’s disease and the number of hours it took to construct the building, among other data sets. Visitors can select a data set and watch as the sculpture illuminates with corresponding information.
Burgess believes that the growth of the School of Data Science is a testament to the university’s confidence in the field’s potential to revolutionize the world. University leadership and government officials have expressed support for the school, recognizing its importance for the Commonwealth and higher education. Burgess is encouraged by the widespread belief in the power of data science, as evidenced by the school’s success and support from various stakeholders.