UA Little Rock Professor Shares Story in National Documentary Project

Dr. Arya Basu, an assistant professor of computer science at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, has been chosen to participate in “Our American Story,” a national documentary initiative that highlights the people and ideas shaping the United States ahead of its 250th anniversary in 2026. This project is part of the broader America 250 celebration, aiming to create the largest audiovisual archive of American narratives ever compiled.

The archive will be preserved in the Library of Congress as a living time capsule for future generations, with each participant contributing their unique journey, values, and vision for America’s future. Dr. Basu stands out as the only researcher from Arkansas and the sole professor from UA Little Rock featured in this significant project.

Reflecting on Personal Journeys and Inspirations

Dr. Basu’s interview was conducted at the historic Old State House Museum in downtown Little Rock on October 6, 2023, a location he found to be fitting, given its rich history. He expressed his amazement at being included in the project, stating, “I was speechless and spellbound. Even now, I can’t believe they found my story. Being part of America’s 250th celebration is an honor I never imagined.”

As a computational scientist specializing in human-computer interaction and biomedical visualization, Dr. Basu’s recent research focuses on cardiac visualization technologies. His work is deeply personal, driven by the experiences surrounding his mother’s challenging heart surgery and the loss of his uncle, an applied physicist who inspired his early interest in science. Dr. Basu noted, “My uncle had a huge impact on who I am as a scientist. Those experiences with my family taught me that science, like life, is about compassion and persistence.”

Emphasizing the Importance of Perseverance

During the interview, Dr. Basu reflected on his journey from India to Arkansas, noting how the state’s natural beauty and tranquil pace of life have influenced his work and outlook. He remarked, “When I first crossed the Mississippi River into Arkansas, I was struck by the abundance of trees and the sense of peace. Science, like good soul food, comes from a soul that is at peace with its environment. The South is known for its warmth and music, but it’s also a place where good science happens.”

When asked about the message he hopes to convey in light of America’s upcoming milestone, Dr. Basu emphasized the value of perseverance in both science and nation-building. “Persistence is what keeps this nation moving forward. Building a nation is not easy, and maintaining one is even harder. For the next 250 years, I hope we never lose sight of the need to stay persistent in pursuing what our collective hearts know is right and important.”

Looking to the future, Dr. Basu’s research will focus on human decision-making and spatial reasoning, including studies on maze navigation and the application of eye gaze signals to enhance artificial intelligence for Air Force missions.

Dr. Basu described being featured in “Our American Story” as both humbling and meaningful. His family was excited to learn that his story would be preserved in the Library of Congress. “My family is over the moon,” he said. “Some of them joked that I must be going into politics. But truly, they’re proud that something from our story is now a part of American history.”

For Dr. Basu, this experience reaffirmed his belief that science, compassion, and creativity are the threads that unite all Americans. “Science has no borders,” he remarked. “It’s not just where you are that matters. It’s what you strive to contribute to the world. Being part of this project reminds me that every story, no matter where it begins, can inspire something greater.”