Year: 1969

Who: Clarence Ellis

Where: Chicago, IL

Born on February 11, 1943, in South Chicago, Illinois, Clarence Ellis was a trailblazing computer scientist whose contributions left an indelible mark on the field of computing. Ellis became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in computer science in 1969, an achievement that broke racial barriers and paved the way for greater diversity in the tech industry. His groundbreaking work in groupware, object-oriented systems, and distributed systems revolutionized how computers were used to support human collaboration and interaction.

Ellis's professional journey included influential roles at renowned institutions such as Bell Labs, IBM, and Xerox PARC, where he worked on pioneering projects that shaped the future of technology. One of his most notable contributions was in the development of groupware—software designed to facilitate teamwork and collaboration in organizations. As an educator, Ellis was equally committed to mentoring students and promoting inclusion in computer science, drawing inspiration from the civil rights movement to ensure opportunities for underrepresented groups in technology.

Clarence Ellis’s legacy is defined by his trailblazing achievements in computer science and his dedication to fostering diversity in the field. His innovations in distributed systems and collaborative computing laid the groundwork for modern technological advancements in communication and teamwork. Beyond his technical contributions, Ellis's advocacy for education and inclusion continues to inspire future generations of computer scientists, proving that innovation and equity can go hand in hand in building a more inclusive technological future.

Sources:

Websites:

• MIT. (n.d.). Clarence Ellis (1975). MIT Black History. https://www.blackhistory.mit.edu/archive/clarence-ellis-1975

• Siebel School of Music. (2014, December 15). In memory of Clarence "Skip" Ellis (1943-2014). Siebel School of Music, University of Illinois. https://siebelschool.illinois.edu/news/memory-clarence-skip-ellis-1943-2014