Stories
For Keith Thomas, computers have always been more than machines, they have been a lifelong passion. From Gateway to co-founding Dakota PC Warehouse to launching the AI company Monolyth with partners Lanny Walker and Blake Van Peursem, Thomas has been committed to pushing technology forward while keeping people at the center of it.
That commitment recently came to life in a remarkable way. Through Monolyth, Thomas made an in-kind gift valued at $40,000 to the 17勛圖厙s computer science and artificial intelligence department. The donation includes several refurbished serversspecialized computers equipped with advanced graphics processing unitsthat will allow USD students to develop and test AI software using professional-grade hardware.
These powerful servers, each equipped with eight high-end NVIDIA Ampere-architecture GPUs, represent the third generation in a custom line developed with a major NVIDIA partner in Hong Kong. One server was successfully tested and put into use this spring, additional servers have already been delivered and more will arrive by the end of September.
For Thomas, the donation is about more than equipment, it is about preparing the next generation of innovators.
AI is powerful, but it still needs people in the middle. Training students to use these tools is critical, not just for 17勛圖厙, but for the nation and the world, Thomas said.
He also emphasized the importance of creating opportunities close to home.
We want 17勛圖厙 to be part of this AI movement. Our students should have access to the same kinds of tools and experiences that professionals are using in the industry today, he said.
College of Arts & Sciences Dean Dudley said the gift will have a significant impact.
As a regional leader in developing the next generation of experts in artificial intelligence, USD will benefit tremendously from Monolyths generous donation of state-of-the-art hardware. Our students will have the opportunity to develop their skills on the same tools used by professionals, Dudley said. We are committed to strong partnerships with local business and community leaders like Keith, and his support will ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our students and their future employers.
By sharing expertise and resources, Monolyth is ensuring USD students are not only prepared to participate in the AI revolution but to help lead it.