Grateful for a Legendary Mentor: How Studying Under Nobel Laureate Lloyd Shapley Shaped My Career

Grateful for a Legendary Mentor: How Studying Under Nobel Laureate Lloyd Shapley Shaped My Career

As I reflect on my career, I am reminded of how fortunate I’ve been to have incredible mentors along the way. Recently, while conducting research in my office, I came across notes and a letter from Chancellor Gene D. Block, from my time at UCLA, which brought back memories of the solid foundation that shaped my professional journey.

A special thank you goes to the late Professor Lloyd S. Shapley, whose groundbreaking work in mathematics and game theory left an indelible mark on the field. As a mathematics and computer science major, I had the privilege of studying under him in Linear and Combinatorial Optimization during the spring quarter. This course, which explored optimization techniques such as the simplex algorithm, network flows, and combinatorial optimization, was directly connected to Shapley's research and profoundly shaped my approach to problem-solving.

While I’ve been fortunate to serve in leadership roles at companies like Oracle, HPE, HP, Apple, and Microsoft over the years, I know that much of my success is due to the lessons I learned from brilliant minds like Professor Shapley. His impact continues to resonate with me both personally and professionally.

I’m a lifelong learner, and I surround myself with people I can learn from—whether I’m hiring or working alongside someone. Have you ever reflected on how your favorite teacher or professor influenced your career? Have you researched the fundamental principles of teaching that continue to shape your growth?

Two core principles of great teaching that I often reflect on are:

1. Facilitating Critical Thinking: Great teachers encourage students to think independently, question assumptions, and solve complex problems.

2. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Effective educators foster an atmosphere where all students feel valued, heard, and motivated to participate.

Cheers!

Vince

For more about Professor Lloyd S. Shapley and his incredible contributions, visit: https://economics.ucla.edu/person/lloyd-s-shapley/

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