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Prince Afriyie Delivers Last Lecture on the Power of the “Smallest Data Point”
The University of Virginia School of Data Science is proud to share that Prince Afriyie, assistant professor of data science and director of the M.S. in Data Science Residential Program, was selected by students to deliver a lecture as part of the 33rd annual Last Lecture Series, a longstanding University tradition that honors faculty who have made a lasting impact in the classroom.
Hosted by UVA Housing & Residence Life, the Last Lecture Series invites selected faculty to present a lecture on any topic of their choosing, framed as if it were the final lecture they could ever give. The program reflects the deep connection between students and faculty, with nominations driven by student voices across Grounds.
Afriyie delivered his lecture, “The Least Common Denominator: How Focusing on the Smallest Data Point Changed My Life,” on April 15 in the Rotunda Dome Room.
Drawing from his personal journey, Afriyie used the concept of the “least common denominator” as both a mathematical idea and a life philosophy. He reflected on his upbringing in Dormaa Ahenkro, Ghana, where limited resources but strong family support shaped his early path, and on the pivotal role of a teacher who chose to invest time and attention in a struggling student. He traced how moments that might seem small — a classroom interaction, a brief conversation, a second chance — can alter the trajectory of a life.
Afriyie also spoke candidly about setbacks, including financial hardship and years spent working multiple jobs while pursuing his education, emphasizing the role of persistence and belief. He closed by challenging the audience to recognize and uplift the “smallest data point” in their own communities, underscoring that meaningful impact often begins with noticing those who might otherwise be overlooked.
Afriyie’s selection for this honor underscored his commitment to teaching, mentorship, and advancing data science education at UVA.
