UVA Data Science Alum Selected as NobleReach Scholar

A recent graduate of the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science will soon join an illustrious group of fellow early-career professionals as part of the inaugural class of NobleReach Scholars.

Patrick Dunnington, who received a master’s degree in data science in May, was one of 19 scholars chosen from a pool of hundreds of applicants with backgrounds in technology, science, and entrepreneurship from 90 universities across the country. Prior to joining the data science master’s program, Dunnington completed a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from UVA in 2023.

The NobleReach Scholars will work in both governmental and private sector organizations for either one or two years, taking on challenges in the key areas of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, business process innovation, and materials manufacturing. 

The NobleReach Foundation is a nonprofit near Washington, D.C., that works to bolster national security and prosperity through academic partnerships, innovation, and talent initiatives such as the scholars program.

As he prepares to join the program, Dunnington said he is thrilled he will soon get the chance to apply his data science training toward such a meaningful purpose.

“I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to be a NobleReach Scholar and grateful for the UVA School of Data Science providing me with invaluable technical skills,” he said. “Looking forward, my career mission is to improve others’ quality of life with my technical background. The NobleReach Scholars program is the perfect launchpad for me because it emphasizes the importance of technological innovation in public service and private industry, while providing me a chance to get real experience.”

Dunnington also praised the team at NobleReach for setting him up for success both now and in the future. 

“They are also helping me build a very powerful network to lean on throughout my career,” he said.

The newly selected group of scholars have already been placed at eight federal agencies and three mission-driven industry partners. The goal is for each scholar to focus on issues that have major societal impact.

“The scholars program aims to inspire a lifelong passion for public service among tomorrow’s leading technologists, scientists and entrepreneurs at the beginning of their careers,” said NobleReach Foundation CEO Arun Gupta in a statement announcing the selection of the scholars.

The NobleReach Foundation will be on campus for the Fall 2024 On-Grounds Public Interest Technology Career Fair on Sept. 3, and the application cycle for next year’s cohort will begin on Sept. 30.