Wing Ning Li, professor of computer science and computer engineering, will retire from the U of A on Dec. 31 after 34 years of service.

After obtaining a bachelor's degree in computer science with highest distinction from the University of Iowa, Li continued his schooling. He obtained both a master's degree and Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Minnesota in 1989. In the same year, Li began his career in the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the U of A.

For the past three decades, Li has made a lasting impact on the students, staff and faculty at the university.

"Dr. Li is very well respected by his colleagues and students. We truly appreciate his contribution to our department in the past three decades," said Jia Di, head of the Computer Science and Computer Engineering Department.

He pursues many hobbies in his free time as well. He goes skydiving, scuba diving, and is known to be a great chef. Li is also the pentathlon record holder for his high school.

Li organized the annual CSCE High School Programming Contest and was a frequent judge at the Association for Computing Machinery's hackathon contest.

His colleagues will miss his immense support for faculty, staff and students.

Those who want to wish Li well in his retirement are encouraged to contact him via email at wingning@uark.edu.