December 19, 2007

Cryptography Workshop for High School Students

Memphis- Christian Brothers University (CBU) is hosting a unique interdisciplinary workshop entitled "Cryptography: Past and Present" for high school students. The workshop will examine the history and practice of cryptography, and is scheduled for Tuesday, February 5, 2008 from 3:30- 5:30 p.m. in Montesi Room of Buckman Hall.

Cryptography- the science of codes and ciphers- has changed the world. Great battles and other historic events have hinged on the effective (or inept) uses of codes. Modern commerce relies extensively on encryption of communications for safety and security. CBU invites high school students to attend this unique interdisciplinary workshop that will feature speakers from the history, electrical engineering, and computer engineering departments.

Dr. Neal Palmer and Dr. Paul Berk of the CBU History department will explain historical events that have been changed by the use of ciphers, while Dr. Eric Welch of the Electrical and Computer Engineering will discuss the structure of ciphers and introduce methods used in modern computer cryptography. Students will also get a chance to try their hand at developing -- and cracking -- a simple cipher.

This event is free and open to all students in grades 9-12. Seating is limited, so advance registration is required. Register online starting Tuesday, January 8 at: http://www.cbu.edu/Prospective/crypto ###