Chris Stephenson, Head of Computer Science Education Programs at Google Inc., was recognized with the 2016 ACM Presidential Award for being "a true visionary and teaching advocate who spirited ACM’s lifelong commitment to computer science education, recognizing the need to introduce CS to young students taught by educators with the tools and training to inspire future generations to the wonders of computing."
The long citation reads: "ACM, teachers, and students worldwide are indebted to Chris Stephenson for her landmark work in creating an international organization dedicated to supporting teachers and pursuing excellence in CS education for K-12 students. As the architect and first executive director of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA), Chris led the charge that changed the way CS education is appreciated at the K-12 level. Under her astute, decade-long leadership, CSTA grew to over 20,000 strong, culminating in projects and initiatives that deeply impacted K-12 education and educators around the world. Along the way, she motivated corporate sponsors and educational partners to join the cause. Teachers today have access to unprecedented opportunities for professional development thanks to the efforts of CSTA. Indeed, the guidelines in the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards are now recognized as the de facto US national CS curriculum standard. Chris also made major contributions to awareness of and broad progress on K-12 CS education through her co-authorship of the Running on Empty report and her participation as a founding member of the Computing in the Core organization. ACM salutes Chris Stephenson for her steadfast devotion to CS education."
Gerhard Schimpf, who serves as Chair of ACM Europe’s Council of European Chapter Leaders, was recognized for "his leadership in support of ACM’s mission for global expansion by helping to establish ACM Europe, advocating ACM’s involvement in the Heidelberg Laureate Forum, and enlightening students and professionals throughout Europe to the value of ACM membership."
The long citation reads: "ACM honors Gerhard Schimpf for his exhaustive devotion to ACM for over four decades, and his unremitting work to increase ACM’s visibility across Europe. Gerhard was a leading supporter of ACM Europe, serving on the first ACM Europe Council in 2009. He was also instrumental in coordinating ACM’s spot as one of the founding organizations of the Heidelberg Laureate Forum. The HLF, an annual gathering of top students and foremost scientists in the field, including ACM’s Turing Award recipients, has received worldwide recognition for excellence since its debut in 2012. ACM is indebted to Gerhard for his dedication and global vision."
