September 1, 2026
Financial donations aren't the only way to give back to your alma mater. For Alumnus Mark Shozda, giving back takes many forms.
Shozda (SCI '80, KATZ '92), a member of the SCI Alumni Board, has had continuous involvement with Pitt, both financially and personally, since earning his B.S. in Computer Science and MBA from the University. Through his work at Pitt, Shozda has provided a primary example of what an outstanding alumnus can look like.
Shozda has stayed connected with Pitt through his professional career and now into retirement by speaking at student events, serving on the Computer Science Department Industry Advisory Board for more than 17 years, and most recently serving as both the inaugural Chair and current member of the SCI Alumni Board. Shozda’s other contributions to the University include recruiting and mentoring for the SCI Mentorship Program, serving on the Alumni Awards Committee, aiding in the creation of the first SCI Mentorship Picnic, Pitt Day of Giving, and much more.
“Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the exceptional quality of Pitt students, the dedication of SCI’s faculty and administrative leadership, and the University’s commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful careers,” Shozda said.
Another factor behind Shozda’s continued involvement is the relationships he has built throughout his time at Pitt. Shozda said by giving back, he has found lasting friendships with all those involved with SCI.
“New professional and personal connections have been one of the most rewarding and unexpected benefits of my involvement,” Shozda said. “It is terrific to not only have the opportunity to contribute to SCI’s continued success, but also for becoming part of a community that continues to inspire and are energized in their commitment to SCI.”
Mackenzie Ball, SCI director of outreach and alumni engagement, has worked with Shozda to shape the Alumni Board and as he served as the chair of the board. Ball said Shozda has always shown up for students and alumni.
“[Shozda] has been an incredible partner in building the SCI Alumni community from the ground up,” Ball said. “[Shozda’s] generosity, whether with his time, his expertise, or his own giving, has left a lasting impact on SCI, and we're incredibly grateful for everything he's done. It has been my great privilege to work alongside him over the last 12 years that I have been at Pitt."
Shozda’s work on the Alumni Board has also caused lasting impressions in those he works with. Tony DeLuca, a member of the SCI Alumni Board, said Shozda has had a “foundational impact on SCI.”
“As the founding chair of the SCI Alumni Board, he was the catalyst that gave the board the energy, direction, and momentum it needed to get off to the best possible start,” DeLuca said. “Just as importantly, Mark is an inspirational leader and mentor who brings out the best in the people around him and continually challenges us to think bigger about what we can accomplish for SCI.”
Shozda also stays connected with Pitt, and SCI in particular, by personal monetary donations to the school. While Shozda encourages this way of giving back, he emphasizes that alumni have much to offer their alma mater beyond financial matters.
“Giving back can take many forms, including volunteering, mentoring, sharing professional expertise, or supporting student programs,” Shozda said. “I hope SCI alumni reflect on the opportunities Pitt provided them and consider how they can invest some of their time, experience, or financial success to help today’s students enjoy even greater opportunities than we did.”
Moments when Shozda has volunteered his time are the ones that have stuck with him the most. Shozda explained his work on the Industry Advisory Board making curriculum, participating in resume reviews, and mentoring students are times when he could feel the impact he was making.
“What makes volunteering so rewarding is seeing the cumulative impact of helping students and strengthening SCI over time,” Shozda said. “Those moments continually reinforce why I remain involved.”
The support of alumni like Shozda allows SCI to continue to thrive for years to come. Shozda said with technology continuously evolving, being able to support students into finding success in their careers is important.
“My hope is that the school continues to build on its momentum under Dean Childers’ leadership by expanding its impact, strengthening partnerships with industry, continuing to innovate academically, and ensuring graduates are exceptionally well prepared for rewarding careers,” Shozda said.
Motivation for giving back can come from anywhere, but for Shozda, his belief lies in one simple idea: “help make Pitt a better place than when you were a student.”
Interested in giving back? Explore giving options through our Give page. Alumni can get involved with SCI through taking our Alumni Survey.