The goal of the Graphics and Visualization Center is to strengthen the foundations of computer graphics and scientific visualization. Center members work together to realize the extraordinary potential of computer graphics: flexible, robust, scientifically-based methods of visual communication, analysis, and design. This discipline-wide vision requires coordinated work in four foundational research areas: modeling, rendering, interaction, and performance. Work in these areas is further focused, stimulated, and validated by two key ``driving application'' research areas: scientific visualization and a Center-wide research effort on telecollaboration for mechanical computer-aided design (CAD). Our Center is distributed across five states and three time zones, has no single dedicated building, and operates as a virtual collaboratory aided by a custom communication infrastructure built on dedicated T-1 lines. This infrastructure is being upgraded to enhance our daily collaboration and to provide a solid foundation for our telecollaboration research.
Center research is integrated with education to give undergraduate and graduate students a uniquely wide perspective that helps develop the next generation of academics and industry leaders, who will continue to improve the field by capitalizing on the work the Center has begun. The Center is also active in education and outreach activities spanning K-12, other colleges and universities, industry, and government.