Mark Anthony Thompson Sr. has joined the college as endowed professor of Computer Science and Technology Innovation.
This new professorship is the first faculty hire for McDaniel’s new School of Business and Technology, which is scheduled to open in fall 2027. Funding for the position includes a $2 million grant from the Maryland E-Nnovation Initiative Fund (MEIF), administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, matched by a bequest from the late alumnus Jonas Eshelman.
Thompson brings expertise in cybersecurity, computer network security, digital forensics, and artificial intelligence. Most recently, he served as senior research associate in the Virginia Tech National Security Institute’s Intelligent Systems Division, which advances national security through interdisciplinary research, technology, policy, and talent development.
Previously, Thompson taught computer science and engineering at the University of North Texas and computer information systems and mathematics at Northwestern State University of Louisiana. His professional experience also includes teaching high school mathematics and working in information systems in a variety of roles.
His scholarly work has been published in journals and other peer-reviewed publications, and he has been invited to deliver lectures and presentations at conferences.
Thompson earned a doctorate in Computational Analysis and Modeling from Louisiana Tech University. He received a Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Computer Engineering from Tulane University, followed by both a master’s degree in Mathematical Sciences and M.B.A. in Business Administration from The University of Texas at Dallas.
