For Rishi Preetham Sanagala, the journey to Concordia University Wisconsin began with a dream—and became something far greater.
Originally from India, Sanagala came to the United States with a clear goal: to pursue graduate studies in computer science in a place known for innovation and advanced research. After learning about Concordia through family and attending a faculty-led webinar, he quickly saw the potential.
“I felt that Concordia would be the ideal place to develop my technical expertise, explore cutting-edge technologies, and achieve my academic and professional goals,” he said.
Now a Concordia alumnus, Sanagala earned his master’s degree in December 2025 with a specialization in business data applications, building a strong foundation for his future in the field.
Discovering a place to grow
What stood out most to Sanagala was Concordia’s balance of innovation and community.
“Concordia provides the right environment to stay ahead in technology,” he said. “The combination of hands-on learning, research-driven education, and a close-knit academic community made it the perfect place for me to grow.”
That sense of connection was evident from the beginning—not only in his own experience, but in how others responded to him.
According to Dr. Michael Litman, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science, Sanagala quickly emerged as a leader among his peers.
“From day one, he was a leader among a very large group in our master’s program. This was a year with 300+ new students, all from Hyderabad, India, and Rishi immediately became someone they turned to,” Litman said. “During his time at CUW, he was very involved in activities around campus and with other students. He was the easy choice for graduate assistant in our program and took pride in the work he did.”
When Sanagala first arrived, that sense of belonging was immediate.
“The moment I entered the campus, I was amazed by its beautiful environment and peaceful atmosphere,” he said. “It immediately felt like a place where I could grow both academically and personally.”
Learning beyond the classroom
At Concordia, Sanagala discovered that education goes beyond theory.
“What I really appreciated is that learning here is not just about theory—it’s about becoming a better thinker, problem solver, and professional,” he said.
Through hands-on projects, collaboration, and faculty mentorship, he connected classroom concepts to real-world impact. His professors played a key role in that growth.
“They didn’t just make me a better student. They helped me become a better thinker and problem solver,” he said. “They encourage creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, and guide us to understand the real-world impact of what we learn.”
That leadership extended beyond the classroom. Sanagala played an active role in the computer science club, where he led workshops and helped other students build technical skills.
“Rishi was among the leaders in our CS club and led multiple workshops in various technical areas,” Litman said. “He was someone who brought folks together and wanted to do a great job for them.”
Leading innovation on campus
Sanagala’s passion for emerging technology led him to the AI & Quantum Innovation Lab, where he contributed to innovative, real-world solutions.
He quickly embraced opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, working with students and faculty from multiple departments to bring ideas to life.
“Rishi immediately took advantage of the AI & Quantum Innovation Lab by collaborating on projects across multiple departments and schools on campus,” Litman said.
One of his standout projects is an Agentic AI system that allows students to submit 3D printing requests through a conversational interface, simplifying what was once a manual process.
“It simplifies workflows and improves efficiency for both students and lab staff,” Sanagala explained.
He also worked on a conversational AI tool to support language learning, helping students engage in real-world dialogue.
“The goal of the lab is to create a space where students can explore, build, and collaborate,” he said. “It’s about turning ideas into impactful solutions.”
Growing in purpose
Beyond technical growth, Sanagala’s time at Concordia shaped his sense of purpose.
“That holistic approach helped me grow as a well-rounded individual,” he said. “It taught me to see technology not just as a tool, but as a way to serve others and make meaningful contributions.”
“Technology isn’t just about innovation,” he added. “It’s about solving real problems and improving people’s lives.”
A transformative experience
Before graduating, Sanagala secured a full-time role with a global banking software company, where he now continues building impactful solutions.
But when asked to describe his Concordia journey in one word, his answer reflects something deeper.
“Transformative. Before coming here, I was passionate but unsure of my potential,” he said. “Concordia helped me discover it. It gave me the confidence to push boundaries, take initiative, and grow beyond academics.”
His story reflects Concordia’s mission to develop students in mind, body, and spirit, preparing graduates to lead with purpose and make a meaningful difference in the world.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.