May 25, 2015

Dear friends:

I'm wrapping up a wonderful 16 years within the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon. It has been an amazing ride, one which I am sure I could have enjoyed for the next 30 years or so of my career. But, I am a big believer in change. I think new people, new challenges, new resources, and new environments are invigorating and foster agility. So, when I got the itch -- I sought out another amazing place with amazing people. I'm heading to the Computer Science and Engineering Department at UCSD. I couldn't be more excited!

I officially start at UCSD on June 1st, but will be continuing to wrap things up and support my colleagues at CMU duing the transition, especially over the summer. If I have bits you need, please don't worry -- they are not lost. My old office phone still forwards to my cellphone. All my email accounts still work. As always, I remain at you service.

Why UCSD? The answer is that it is also an amazing place, especially rich in human capital, and also with a clear sense of mission to teach and serve students well, which is my favorite occupation. With regard to their human wealth, they have wonderful staff and faculty, about 2,000 majors, nearly 300 MS students, a bunch of PhD students, and teach almost 25,000 students per semester. Doesn't that sound exciting to you?

I'm not among Carnegie Mellon's distinguish alums, but after so many great years, I do feel a little like one. Regardless, if you are one of my CMU alums -- you always will be. Please continue to contact me if I can be of service, or even if you just want to say hello.

Thanks so very much -- and on my way!

Gregory Kesden

P.S. It is true that, in choosing UCSD, I did have to forgive that they are located along an amazing beach, never get too hot or too cold, enjoy near constant sunshine, and neither will I shovel the snow -- nor water the lawn.