The Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD) mourns the passing of Dr. Thomas E. Linehan, a cherished alumnus of The Ohio State University and an integral figure in ACCAD's early history. Dr. Linehan, who passed away in April, played a pivotal role in shaping the Computer Graphics Research Group (CGRG) which later became ACCAD alongside his visionary collaborator Chuck Csuri. His and Csuri’s contributions during the program's formative years in the 1970s and 1980s established Ohio State as a pioneer in computer graphics, laying the groundwork for innovation at the intersection of art, design, and technology. Together, Csuri and Linehan established a unique and visionary precedent of fostering collaboration between scientific and artistic minds within an emerging field. That transdisciplinary approach to research and development became the standard for many of the major computer graphics and animation production houses. 

Dr. Linehan’s computer graphics legacy in education extends beyond Ohio State. He left an indelible mark on the field of digital arts and education at Texas A&M, Ringling College of Art & Design and most recently the University of Texas at Dallas as the founder of the Arts and Technology (ATEC) program and the director of the Institute for Interactive Arts and Engineering. 

Maria Palazzi, Professor of Design reflected on Dr. Linehan's impact: 

“Tom was an amazing mentor to me and so many other artists and designers who were encouraged and welcomed into computer graphics research at Ohio State. Throughout his educator life he continued to provide support to us as we pursued our careers. We could always return to him for advice and direction. Tom was a mentor to his core, and I have learned so much from him. I and many others are so grateful for the opportunities he provided to all of us.” 

The ACCAD Community extends our heartfelt condolences to his family, including his husband, Arnold Duenes, and his son Peter and express our gratitude for Dr. Linehan’s invaluable contributions to the field of computer graphics education, OSU and ACCAD.