K-State computer science professor Pascal Hitzler named 2025 University Distinguished Professor
Pascal Hitzler, professor of computer science and director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, has been named a 2025 University Distinguished Professor, Kansas State University's highest academic title. | Download this photo.
Pascal Hitzler, professor of computer science and director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science in the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, has been named a 2025 University Distinguished Professor, Kansas State University's highest academic title.
Hitzler is known for his research in artificial intelligence and data management. He joined the K-State faculty in 2019 and has helped lead several interdisciplinary initiatives across campus.
"Since I arrived at K-State, interdisciplinary collaborations with colleagues across campus and support from the administration have opened up many growth opportunities," Hitzler said. "I'm looking forward to continuing that work."
Hitzler is one of the founding directors of the Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, a university initiative that combines artificial intelligence, data science and agricultural research. He is also a co-organizer of the university's annual symposium focused on the future of AI, which brings together experts from computing, the humanities, the social sciences and more.
His research portfolio includes foundational work in AI theory and applied collaborations across disciplines. His projects have addressed challenges in data integration, logic-based reasoning and the development of AI systems designed to support decision making in complex environments.
"I have always been intrigued by how to use computational and mathematical methods to capture, mimic, improve, and accelerate human thinking and understanding of the world. I started as a mathematician and logician, expanded into data management, and am now researching AI methods that bring all these together," Hitzler said. "My path has led from a mostly theoretical focus to a research program that now spans from theory to applications in different disciplines, including agriculture and the humanities."
He is particularly interested in the development of AI systems that are both effective and trustworthy. Hitzler approached the question of how to build responsible and reliable AI beyond just technical improvements, taking the next step and accounting for the human and societal aspects.
"Follow your passions rather than general trends," he said. "Doing good research is only the first step: impact requires that others can understand and appreciate your contributions."
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David Auckly is recognized for his work in geometric topology, mathematical physics, and efforts to expand access to mathematics education.
Anna Marie Wytko is honored for her contributions as a saxophonist and educator in performance and instruction.
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