معرفی
Dr. Paul D. S. Fink is an Assistant Professor at Grand Valley State University's College of Computing, joining in January 2025. His work focuses on accessible technology, human-computer interaction, and inclusive design for individuals with mobility-limiting disabilities. He earned a B.S. from the University of Vermont, a Master's in Student Development in Higher Education (2017), and a Ph.D. in Spatial Information Science and Engineering (2023) from the University of Maine.
His research includes the groundbreaking Autonomous Vehicle Assistant (AVA App) developed during the U.S. Department of Transportation's Inclusive Design Challenge, which advanced to Stage Two and received $300,000 in funding. Collaborations with Toyota Research Institute furthered accessible navigation solutions. Dr. Fink secured over $1.1 million in grants and contributed to $7.5 million in grant submissions during his doctoral work.
He is founding the Wayfinding, Accessible Interaction, and Virtual Environment (WAIVE) Lab at GVSU (launching Fall 2025), focusing on navigation technology for underrepresented communities. His interdisciplinary approach bridges computing, accessibility, and human-centered design.
Dr. Fink's advocacy stems from his family's educational background and mentorship by Dr. Nicholas Giudice (a blind computing professor). He emphasizes collaboration, having partnered with industry leaders like Toyota and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Personal interests include community integration in Grand Rapids with his wife Jessica (specializing in communication sciences) and their son.
