Dr. Unnati Shah Awarded Prestigious Clark Award

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Dr. Unnati Shah Awarded Prestigious Clark Award

Dr. Unnati Shah, associate professor of computer science, is the 2025 recipient of Utica University’s Harold T. Clark Jr. Award for Distinguished Scholarship.

The award is given annually to a faculty member who exemplifies the highest traditions of scholarship. Recipients are nominated by faculty colleagues, with the review and selection conducted by past award recipients.

Dr. Shah earned her Ph.D. from Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology in Surat, India. Her research has contributed significant advancements to her field, integrating cutting-edge techniques from artificial intelligence, natural language processing, machine learning, and quality ontology. Her impressive record of scholarly work includes nine-reviewed publications, multiple keynote speaker invitations, and regular presentations at international conferences.

Her nominations noted that beyond her extensive personal scholarly achievements, she has had a profound influence on students, encouraging and mentoring them in their research pursuits. She has empowered several of her students and particularly women to pursue research after graduation. Under her guidance, Utica computer science students have presented research nationally, earning recognition at competitive venues.

"(Dr. Shah) has had a transformative impact since joining the University."
Provost Stephanie Nesbitt

A nominator commented, “Rather than relegating students to supporting roles, she cultivates them as independent thinkers and leaders in their own projects. Her mentorship has helped them step outside their comfort zones, pursue independent studies, and see themselves as researchers in their own right…They describe her as a motivator, role model, and boundary pusher who instills not only technical skills but also self-belief and resilience.”

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Stephanie Nesbitt, in presenting the award on Nov. 19 at the University’s annual Faculty Research Day, further observed, “(Dr. Shah) has had a transformative impact since joining the University. She truly embodies the spirit of the Clark Award: a record of meaningful scholarship, professional contributions that extend beyond our campus, and an unwavering commitment to the next generation of researchers.”

The Clark Award was endowed by Harold “Tom” Clark Jr. ’65, founding chairperson of the Utica University Board of Trustees, for the purpose of recognizing and encouraging faculty creative accomplishments.