Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education News

“Don’t be afraid to jump at opportunities and push your own boundaries” is the advice that Nala Mitas, a senior public policy major with urban studies immersion, lives by now. After attending the National Security Council Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at the White House earlier this semester, she’s inspired by a freshly expanded view of possibilities for making a positive difference. 

A new National Science Foundation grant will allow 18 RIT students to travel to Sweden and conduct artificial intelligence (AI) research that enhances the industrial workplace. The students will take part in a program of AI research, professional development, and mentorship, which includes eight weeks at University West, near Gothenburg, Sweden.

Today, artificial intelligence is being used to manipulate media. At RIT, a team of student and faculty researchers is leading the charge to help journalists and intelligence analysts figure out what is real and what is fake. Their work has more than $2 million in funding from the National Science Foundation and Knight Foundation.

Kelly Norris Martin, who has been a faculty member in the College of Liberal Arts for over a decade, has served as interim dean of the college since April 2023. She was selected as dean after a national search and will assume the role on Dec. 1.

The brain is a great source of inspiration for Alexander Ororbia, an assistant professor of computer science and cognitive science at RIT. By mimicking how neurons in the brain learn, Ororbia is working to make artificial intelligence more powerful and energy efficient. His research was recently published in the journal Science Advances.

Valerie Horn believes accessibility should be at the forefront of entrepreneurs’ minds when developing their businesses. This belief pushed her to co-found Zestability, a consultation firm that advocates for prioritizing accessibility and inclusive business practices.

As RIT continues its drive to become a leader in the higher education artificial intelligence space, more than 40 positions spanning multiple disciplines are expected to be filled as part of the university’s commitment to expand its AI expertise.

Students are bringing mural art into the spotlight through TunnelVision, an immersive project designed to engage and inspire. The initiative transforms the residence hall tunnels into a vibrant gallery, showcasing student-created murals. It aims to foster community and spark conversations about public art on campus.

Travis Rankin’s passion for music led him to create the Rochester Music Lab, a vibrant space dedicated to music lessons and community outreach. With his studio, the SOIS alumnus aims to give back by offering opportunities for all ages to explore, learn, and connect through music.

Depending on their discipline, researchers have different ways of addressing environmental problems. Professor Evelyn Brister believes that having a philosopher on research teams can help balance differing viewpoints and priorities, while also addressing ethical questions that tend to get lost in the mix.

As the final phase of the new research building is completed, faculty-researchers from three of RIT’s colleges are preparing to be its first residents. They expect to move into the 39,000-square-foot building in the spring semester.

Longtime RIT supporter B. Thomas Golisano visited the university on Oct. 11 for the opening of two campus exhibits that showcase the transformational life and work of the Paychex founder, philanthropist, and civic leader, and his friendship with Gene Polisseni.