Scott L. Vandenberg

Scott L. Vandenberg is a Professor of Computer Science at Siena University, where he has been teaching since 1993. He holds a PhD and MS in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BA in Math and Computer Science from Cornell University. Prior to joining Siena, he taught at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and had visiting appointments at the University of Washington.

His teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning and interdisciplinary connections, with a focus on helping students understand how to learn rather than just memorizing facts. He particularly enjoys teaching Introduction to Computer Science and Database Systems courses for both majors and non-majors.

Vandenberg's research spans database systems, computer science education, and scientific data management. His work includes database textbooks (Database Concepts and Database Processing), educational research on CS recruitment and teacher development, and interdisciplinary collaborations applying database techniques to biomedical problems, particularly in tuberculosis research and stem cell biology.

His publication record shows a clear progression from foundational database research to educational scholarship and interdisciplinary applications, with recent work focusing on CS education initiatives like CS10K and high school teacher development programs.

• Jerome Walton Award for Excellence in Teaching (2012)
• Multiple finalist nominations for Jerome Walton Excellence in Teaching Award (2009, 2005, 2004)
• Selected for Who's Who Among American Teachers (2004)
• Multiple IBM Graduate Fellowships and Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation Fellowships

As an advisor, Vandenberg emphasizes student autonomy while providing guidance on course selection and academic planning. He expects students to come prepared with course schedules and to take responsibility for their educational journey, while he provides context and advice based on his extensive experience in higher education.