Alexander Hernandez
Staff Writer
Dr. Heng Wu, assistant professor of computer science at the College of Arts and Sciences, died unexpectedly during a family trip on July 17. He was 51.
Dr. Wu was born and raised in rural China. From a very young age education was at the center of his life. Dr. Wu chose to work as a teacher at a small village elementary school just after graduating from high school.
He eventually attended the Changsha Institute of Technology, now known as the National University of Defense Technology, in Kaifu, Changsha, Hunan, China. There he received a bachelor of science in computer application and a master of science in computer science and technology.
Wu went on to study in the United States, at the age of 35, earning a Ph.D. in computer science at Texas Technical Institute in Lubbock, Texas.
He joined the University of La Verne’s faculty in 2024, when he became an assistant professor in the computer science and computer engineering department.
At the University for just a year, Dr. Wu made a lasting impression with colleagues and students both inside and outside of the classroom, notably in the Wilson Library makerspace.
“A couple projects he (was) doing were so advanced, but now the projects are being put on hold because we don’t have the expertise,” said Amy Jiang, professor and interim co-dean of the library and learning commons. “We will miss his expertise and knowledge.”
Dr. Wu specialized in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, and he made his classes accessible to students in various majors.
“Nobody was attending the computer club because they were all engaged with Dr. Wu and his research,” said Seta Whitby, chair of the computer science and computer engineering department. “He literally transformed the department.”
Gerard Lavatori, associate dean of the college of arts and sciences, elaborated on Dr. Wu’s expertise and impact.
“He was an active scholar, participated in many conferences and delivered research,” Lavatori said. “He was a very dedicated professor, dedicated to his students.”
Jozef Goetz, professor of computer science, said Dr. Wu was a warm and positive addition to the department.
“He was a remarkable colleague, collaborator,” Goetz said. “Always approaching his work with enthusiasm, and genuine desire to advance our department’s mission. His dedication to his students and the University of La Verne was truly inspiring.”
Dr. Wu is survived by his wife, Susan Xie and his daughter, who reside in Charleston, West Virginia.
Alexander Hernandez can be reached at alexander.hernandez3@laverne.edu.
Alexander Hernandez is a senior communications major with a concentration in public relations, and a staff writer for the Campus Times.
