Helene E. (Laney) Kulsrud, 91, passed away on March 10, 2025, following a fall in her home in Princeton, NJ. A pioneering computer scientist, devoted mentor, and passionate advocate for the arts, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy of innovation, leadership, and perseverance.
Born in 1933, Laney earned her B.A. in Mathematics from Smith College in 1953 and later obtained an M.A. in Astrophysics from the University of Chicago in 1955. It was there that she met and married Russell Kulsrud, an esteemed astrophysicist and plasma physicist, now professor emeritus at Princeton University. She was a proud member of Phi Beta Kappa and the Association for Computing Machinery.
Breaking Barriers in Computer Science
At a time when computer science was an emerging field, Laney entered the workforce as a programmer at IBM, where she discovered her passion for computational problem-solving. She quickly made her mark, despite the rigid corporate culture that expected women to wear white gloves, stockings, and hats. “She not only smashed the glass ceiling, she shattered expectations,” said IBM Fellow Mark Wegman, who worked with Laney for decades. “At the time, few believed a woman could achieve what she did — but Laney did it with brilliance and determination — no one even thought someone like her could achieve what she achieved.”
Laney went on to serve as Head Programmer at the Educational Testing Service (ETS) from 1956 to 1957, where she pioneered the use of digital computing in scoring the SAT (Scholastic Achievement Test). At RCA Laboratories (1958-1965), she played a key role in the development of high-speed digital computing techniques, earning awards for her groundbreaking work in mathematical modeling and electron gun design.
Her career culminated in over 50 years at the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA), where she became the first female research staff member at the Center for Communications Research in Princeton. She led the development of programming languages and compilers that advanced parallel computing, paving the way for modern data mining and artificial intelligence. Laney also served as President of the Cray User Group, influencing the design of high-performance supercomputers.
Champion for Women in STEM
As a Smith College graduate, Laney was deeply influenced by trailblazers like Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem. She faced gender discrimination in the early years of her career but never let it deter her. Over time, she became a mentor and advocate for women in STEM, helping to open doors for future generations of female scientists. Her advice to young women was simple yet profound: “Keep your standards high.”
Laney was also a valued member of Investment Partners, a women’s investment club that met monthly at the Princeton Public Library. She brought to the group no only her deep understanding of mathematics and the stock market but also a keen curiosity about emerging industries. Her insightful presentations and warm friendship will be deeply missed.
Laney’s legacy as a mentor and role model continues to inspire generations of women pursuing careers in technology and science. In 1986, the YWCA of Princeton recognized Laney as one of its “300 Women” honorees, celebrating her impact as a leader in science and technology.
Dedication to the Arts and Community
Beyond her career in computing, Laney was a driving force behind the Princeton Festival, serving as its Founding Chairperson and later as Treasurer and Chair of Lectures and Special Events. She helped the festival grow from its early productions including Sweeney Todd to grand operatic performances at Princeton University’s Tony Award-winning McCarter Theatre, such as Madama Butterfly, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Porgy & Bess, and Nixon in China. She remained deeply involved until the festival merged with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra in 2021.
She was also an Executive Committee Member of the Friends of the Institute for Advanced Study, supporting scholars and fostering connections between the IAS and the Princeton community.
A Life of Impact and Inspiration
Laney is survived by her husband, Russell Kulsrud, her daughter, Pamela Corey, and her son-in-law, Troy Corey. She was predeceased by her beloved children, Suzanne Allison Gammon (34) in 2001 and Peter Clifford Kulsrud (51) in 2009.
A trailblazer, mentor, and dedicated advocate for women in science and the arts, Laney lived by the Smith College motto: “Smithies Get Things Done.” And get things done, she certainly did.
A celebration of her life and achievements will be announced at a later date.
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