The Minnesota State Capitol rotunda buzzed with intellectual energy on February 26th, and at the heart of it all was Molly Stein, a shining example of student innovation and dedication. A chemistry major and alumna of Introduction to Computer Science (MCS 177), Molly presented her groundbreaking project at the Scholar at the Capitol event, showcasing the results of her work with Dr. Guario Salivia during last summer’s FYRE program.
This event, organized by the Minnesota Private College Council, brought together state legislators, higher education leaders, and community members to witness the impactful research being conducted by students across the state. And Molly’s project? It was nothing short of amazing.
Her presentation focused on a computer vision-based mobile application, a tool designed to revolutionize the lives of visually impaired individuals. The concept is simple yet powerful: to create an app that can detect and locate stains on fabrics. But the technology behind it is anything but.
Molly’s project utilized the sophisticated power of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to achieve high accuracy in distinguishing between unwanted stains and intentional fabric patterns. Imagine the challenge: training a computer to understand the subtle differences between a coffee spill and a decorative stripe! This level of precision is crucial for the app to function effectively.
The core objective of this innovative application is to enhance accessibility and independence for visually impaired individuals. By providing a reliable tool for identifying and managing clothing imperfections, Molly’s project aims to empower users in their daily lives.
But the impact extends beyond mere practicality. This application has the potential to significantly promote social integration, boost self-esteem, and improve the overall well-being of visually impaired individuals. Imagine the confidence gained from knowing you can manage your appearance with ease.
Molly’s presentation resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential for technology to create meaningful change. Her work demonstrates how the skills learned in the classroom, combined with passion and dedication, can lead to real-world solutions.
The Scholar at the Capitol event served as a powerful reminder of the incredible talent and innovation fostered within Gustavus and the Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics Department.. Molly Stein’s project is a testament to the transformative potential of student research and a beacon of hope for a more accessible future. We congratulate Molly and Dr. Salivia on their remarkable achievement and look forward to seeing the continued impact of their work.
