Remembering Howard Elman (1954–2025)

University of Maryland Professor of Computer Science Howard Elman passed away on September 18, 2025. Elman joined UMD in 1985 and became a leading figure in scientific computing, developing numerical algorithms to solve large-scale mathematical models of real-world problems such as fluid dynamics and reactive flows. His work advanced methods used to study phenomena ranging from the behavior of sound waves to the strength and stability of buildings and how water or air flows.

He also held a joint appointment in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS), where he served as interim director from 1999 to 2000 and remained an active affiliate since 1987.

“Howard’s contributions to scientific computing and to our department will be remembered for decades,” said Matthias Zwicker, chair of the Department of Computer Science and holder of the Elizabeth Iribe Chair for Innovation. “He was deeply respected as a researcher, colleague and mentor whose influence extended well beyond Maryland.”

One of his most influential contributions was Finite Elements and Fast Iterative Solvers, co-authored with Andrew Wathen and David Silvester. The book, conceived during a sabbatical in England, combined advances in computational algorithms with applied fluid dynamics. More than two decades after its publication, it remains widely cited by researchers.

From 2018 to 2024, Elman directed the Applied Mathematics & Statistics, and Scientific Computation (AMSC) Program, expanding collaboration between computer science and applied mathematics faculty. He was also a longtime mentor and teacher, advising numerous graduate students who went on to careers in academia, government and industry.

“Howard’s generosity in sharing his wisdom meant so much to me,” said Alan Liu, assistant professor of computer science. “When I joined the department, he took a genuine interest in my work. He was not only a brilliant researcher but also a caring colleague and mentor. He will be deeply missed.”

Born in New York City, Elman earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Columbia University before pursuing his doctorate in computer science at Yale University. His career reflected the union of mathematics and computation, and he remained an advocate for building strong mathematical foundations alongside emerging advances in data and machine learning.

—Story by Samuel Malede Zewdu, CS Communications