This biographical book is part of my tribute to a special individual, Richard Wesley Hamming (1915–1998). Why would I do such a thing? Simply put, in his role as my Ph.D. dissertation advisor, Hamming saved me by stepping in at a critical time, supporting my research, empowering my experimentation, and mentoring me toward a career and life path with achievements and fulfillment.

Hamming was an American mathematician, most known for his work in mathematics and computer science. While employed at the American Telephone & Telegraph (AT&T) Bell Telephone Laboratories (Bell Labs), he developed Error Correcting Codes (ECC), which are internationally known for helping form the foundation of modern computing science and enabling the error-free digital communications on which we all rely.

I believe that a person’s legacy should not be limited to just what they attempt and accomplish in their lifetime; it should also include what is attempted and accomplished by the succeeding generations that they enabled and inspired.