Georgia Trend magazine has named Santosh Vempala, Distinguished Professor in the School of Computer Science, to its 2010 "40 Under 40" list of outstanding individuals under 40 from around the state.

The selections are meant to recognize Georgians who are making their marks on their professions, their communities and their state.

Vempala, who specializes in theoretical computer science, directs the Algorithms & Randomness Center (ARC) & ThinkTank, which seeks to apply theory to problems and issues from across the range of engineering and the sciences. He also is one of the driving forces behind the College's Computing for Good initiative, which centers on the concept of applying computing to social causes and improving quality of life.

"I am thrilled that research in the theory of computation makes it to a list that encompasses education, business, sciences and arts," Vempala said. "The College of Computing at Georgia Tech is a terrific place to be, with exciting research in fundamental science as well as in applying computing ideas to make a positive difference in the world around us."

"This is the 14th year we have recognized an outstanding group of young Georgians," said Georgia Trend Editor Susan Percy. "Our class of 2010 includes representatives from business, government, education, law enforcement, nonprofits and the arts. It's an impressive group, and it's a pleasure to be able to share their stories with our readers."