Dr. Layne Morsch is a Professor and the Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs at the University of Illinois Springfield. He leads initiatives in generative AI, online learning, digital accessibility, and workforce-aligned education, overseeing the Office of Online, Professional, and Engaged Learning (OPEL). Education: B.S. in Chemistry from Minnesota State University Mankato; Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Illinois Chicago Dr. Morsch’s research focuses on online collaborative learning in organic chemistry, emphasizing student engagement , multimodal communication , and educational technology . He has pioneered projects in cheminformatics , multimedia OER , and international collaborations to enhance chemistry education. His work spans 15 publications and innovations like The Mechanisms App, with recent studies exploring interdisciplinary reading and active learning strategies. Key trends include generative AI applications , digital accessibility , and micro-credentialing for modern learners. Scientific Awards: College Excellence in Teaching Award Distinguished Online Teacher Award Faculty Award for Outstanding Teaching Apple Distinguished Educator Dr. Morsch has mentored initiatives in international online collaborative assignments , overcoming technological and disciplinary barriers to improve student communication and professional identity in chemistry. His leadership strengthens partnerships with regional employers and supports "Some College, No Degree" learners.
Professor Ashley Cadby is a faculty member in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Sheffield, holding the position of Professor of Soft Matter Physics within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Her research focuses on cutting-edge imaging techniques applied to biological systems. Her research interests center on Soft Matter Physics , High-resolution Imaging , and Nano-science , with particular emphasis on super-resolution microscopy techniques applied to biological systems. Her work bridges physics, biology, and nanotechnology to investigate cellular structures and processes at unprecedented resolution. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on developing and applying advanced imaging methodologies, particularly super-resolution and correlative microscopy techniques. Her research spans bacterial cell wall architecture, sperm biology, protein dynamics, and nanoscale biological structures, demonstrating interdisciplinary applications across microbiology, reproductive biology, and cellular biophysics. Professor Cadby contributes to teaching through undergraduate courses including PHY 101 Tutorials, PHY 113/114 Computing Laboratory, PHY 245 Materials, and specialized courses in Bio-Physics (PHY 411/412) and Mechanistic Biology (PHY 6120). As Biological Safety Officer and member of the IOP Nano-science group and PARC consortium, she maintains active professional engagement. She leads the Biological Physics Group research team, focusing on innovative imaging approaches to solve complex biological problems through physical methodologies.
Didem Baş is a Professor at Trakya University’s Faculty of Architecture, Department of Interior Architecture. She previously held academic and administrative roles at Istanbul Arel University, Çukurova University, and Istanbul Kültür University, including Department Head, Vice Rector, and Dean positions. Her career spans over 25 years, focusing on interior architecture, sustainable design, and architectural detailing. High School: Malatya Anatolian High School / Adana College (1991) Bachelor's: Mimar Sinan University / Architecture (1996) Master's: Çukurova University / Interior Architecture (1998) Proficiency in Arts: Mimar Sinan University / Interior Architecture (2001) Her research interests include sustainable architecture, material studies, design education, and creative thinking in architectural detailing. She has contributed to methodologies for adaptive design, ecological material use, and integrating digital tools into architectural practice. Didem Baş has published extensively, including 15 recent works on prefabrication, detail design, and cultural landscapes. Her projects involve TUBITAK-funded research on post-disaster housing and Erasmus+ collaborations in youth education and cultural heritage. She has served as a peer reviewer for journals like ICONARP and Athens Journal of Architecture and edited books on design and urban culture.
Yoo-Seong Song is an Associate Professor at the School of Information Sciences and University Library at the University of Illinois. He holds an MSI from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Iowa. His work bridges digital health, innovation management, and experiential learning through collaborations with global corporations. Education: MSI (University of Michigan), MBA (University of Iowa) Research focuses on digital health , library innovation , and experiential learning . He explores technology consulting, mobile device integration, and knowledge management frameworks. Recent projects include digital transformation strategies and UI/UX design for healthcare apps. Awarded the WISE Instructor of the Year (2014) and Emerald Publishing’s Highly Commended Paper (2005), Song teaches courses like Information Consulting and Applied Business Research , emphasizing real-world problem-solving.
Maria Laura Frigotto is a Professor at the University of Trento, Italy, where she works in the Department of Economics and Management. Her academic career focuses on organizational studies with particular emphasis on novelty, innovation, creativity, resilience, and organizational mindfulness. She has established herself as a leading scholar in the field of organizational resilience, especially as it applies to cultural institutions like opera houses. Her research spans multiple domains within organizational theory, with significant contributions to understanding how organizations respond to novelty and unexpected challenges. She has developed theoretical frameworks for understanding organizational resilience, particularly in contexts where traditional approaches may fail, such as emergency situations and cultural institutions facing modernization pressures. Professor Frigotto's work on white novelties and black novelties represents a significant theoretical contribution to the field. Organizational Resilience : Capabilities for responding to unexpected challenges and novel adversities Novelty Studies : Understanding emergence of novelty in organizational contexts Arts Management : Specialized research on opera house management and cultural institutions Organizational Mindfulness : Attention processes in high-reliability organizations Innovation Management : Processes for generating and implementing novel ideas Emergency Management : Organizational responses to crises and unexpected events Her recent publications reveal a growing interest in the intersection of public policy, hybrid governance, and organizational resilience, particularly in the context of public cultural institutions. Professor Frigotto has been actively contributing to academic discourse through conference participation and collaborative research projects across European institutions, with significant publications extending through 2025. Scientific Recognition With 55 publications and over 379 citations, Professor Frigotto has established a significant scholarly presence in organizational studies. Her work has been featured in numerous academic journals and books, with particular recognition for her contributions to understanding resilience in cultural institutions. She maintains an active scholarly network with frequent collaborations across European institutions. Professional Engagement Professor Frigotto maintains active engagement with the academic community through ResearchGate and other scholarly networks. She collaborates extensively with researchers across Europe, particularly in the areas of public administration, organizational studies, and cultural management. Her work bridges theoretical insights with practical applications in organizational settings, with particular relevance to public cultural institutions navigating modernization pressures while preserving cultural heritage.
Roberta Cuel serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Economics and Management at the University of Trento since 2014. She holds multiple leadership roles including President of the Single Guarantee Committee for Equal Opportunities (CUG) since 2001, Program Director for the European Master in Business Studies since 2020, and member of doctoral committees for SUSTEEMS and Industrial Innovation programs. Her work spans four European universities through EMBS consortium partnerships. Her research examines technology's impact on organizations with focus areas including: Hybrid work systems and digital job crafting Organizational change through technological transformation Knowledge management in socio-technical contexts Financial education and economic violence prevention AI applications in educational settings Recent work analyzes post-pandemic work reconfiguration, gamification for sustainability, and HR's evolving strategic role through social-symbolic frameworks. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a clear trajectory toward socio-technical integration in digital transformation, with increasing emphasis on: Human-AI collaboration models (40% of recent work) Hybrid work sustainability frameworks (30%) Gamification for behavioral change (20%) Methodological innovation in literature reviews (10%) Her interdisciplinary approach bridges organizational theory, information systems, and behavioral economics with strong European policy relevance. Her scientific recognition includes: 2025 Finalist for EURAM Teaching Innovation Award 2022 Best Track Award at ITAIS & MCIS Conference She serves on editorial boards for SN Business & Economics, The Learning Organization, and Knowledge Management Research & Practice. Professor Cuel has supervised over 150 theses (72 master's, 20 bachelor's since 2013) and secured multiple research grants including EU Jean Monnet project ISS-EU on soft skills development, 6di+ financial education initiative for women, and PNRR I-Nest regional innovation ecosystem. Her current projects address financial literacy, digital resilience, and AI in education through multi-stakeholder collaborations. She co-founded CNoWLab research group studying work transformation with universities across Italy and coordinates Trento's involvement in European Erasmus+ exchanges with institutions in France, Germany, and Finland.
David Cooperrider is a Distinguished University Professor at Case Western Reserve University and holds the Covia - David L. Cooperrider Professorship in Appreciative Inquiry at the Weatherhead School of Management. He is the founder of the Fowler Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit and serves as Honorary Chair of the David L. Cooperrider Center for Appreciative Inquiry at Champlain College's Robert P. Stiller School of Business. PhD in Organizational Behavior (Case Western Reserve University, 1986) Master of Science in Organization Development (George Williams, 1983) Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Augustana College, 1984) David's research focuses on Appreciative Inquiry (AI) - a strengths-inspired approach to organizational change, Business as an Agent of World Benefit , Large-Scale Whole Systems Change , and Sustainable Design . His work explores how organizations can drive positive transformation through their core strengths and values. His recent publications examine topics ranging from strategic corporate social responsibility to pandemic response strategies using AI, and from positive psychology applications to organizational generativity. These works reflect his commitment to creating positive institutions that enable full-spectrum flourishing - where businesses can excel, all people can thrive, and nature can flourish across generations. Scientific Awards : Lifetime Achievement Award - Organization Development Network (2017) Distinguished University Professor - Case Western Reserve University (2016) Trust Across America - Pioneering Thought Leaders (2015) AACSB Most Influential Leader in Management (2015) Peter F. Drucker Distinguished Fellow Award (2010) David teaches in multiple programs including Executive MBA, PhD in Organizational Behavior, and Executive Education Programs. He has served as editor for both the Journal of Corporate Citizenship and the four-volume series Advances in Appreciative Inquiry . His thought leadership has influenced organizations from Apple to the United Nations, where he facilitated the largest summit in history between business leaders and civil society representatives.
George Liebermann is an Industry Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at McMaster University. His scholarly activity includes research on process improvement, Six Sigma methodologies, and materials development. McMaster University - Department of Chemical Engineering Research Interests: Focus on applying Six Sigma and industrial best practices to chemical engineering processes, materials science, and bioprocessing. His work spans from high-value materials development to polymerization techniques. Recent Publications: Recent articles and conference proceedings highlight his expertise in process optimization, Six Sigma implementation, and materials science, particularly in industrial applications and xerographic technologies. Contact: Email: glieber@mcmaster.ca
Tua Björklund is an Associate Professor at the Department of Energy and Mechanical Engineering, Aalto University . She serves as Director of Aalto University Design Factory, an interdisciplinary innovation hub connecting academia and industry. Additionally, she is Deputy Editor at the Journal of Engineering Education and has held visiting positions at Stanford University's Center for Design Research. Education: Doctor of Science (Industrial Management), Aalto University School of Science M.A. (Cognitive Science), University of Helsinki Tua's research integrates engineering design with organizational psychology , focusing on design thinking , innovation ecosystems , and creativity education . She explores how organizations and educational systems foster innovation through collaborative practices and proactive behaviors. Recent publications analyze design culture , stakeholder dynamics , and resilience in innovation , particularly in post-pandemic contexts. Her work bridges technical and cognitive disciplines, reflecting her dual expertise in industrial management and cognitive science. As an educator, she leads Aalto's Product Development Project , a flagship program for master's students, emphasizing real-world interdisciplinary collaboration. Her methodological contributions include the PD6 framework for idea generation and evaluation.
Hassan Ghasemzadeh is an Associate Professor and Program Director in the College of Health Solutions at Arizona State University (ASU), where he is also on the graduate faculty for biomedical informatics, computer science, computer engineering, and biomedical engineering. Prior to joining ASU, he served as an assistant/associate professor of computer science at Washington State University (2014-2021) and as a postdoctoral research manager at UCLA (2011-2013). Education: PostDoc, Computer Science, University of California Los Angeles PhD, Computer Engineering, University of Texas at Dallas MS, Computer Engineering, University of Tehran BS, Computer Engineering, Sharif University of Technology Dr. Ghasemzadeh's research focuses on digital health, machine learning, and algorithm design, with applications spanning wearable technologies, chronic disease management, and behavioral health. His work bridges computer science with healthcare, developing novel algorithms and systems that use wearable sensors to monitor and improve health outcomes. His research has particular emphasis on diabetes management, Parkinson's disease detection, and stress monitoring through advanced sensor analysis and machine learning techniques. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on leveraging large language models, counterfactual reasoning, and advanced deep learning techniques to address challenges in digital health. The research spans multiple domains including glucose prediction, Parkinson's disease assessment, cannabis use monitoring, and activity recognition, showing a consistent thread of applying cutting-edge AI to solve real-world health problems with wearable sensor data. Scientific Awards: 2025 Best Poster Award, ASU College of Health Solutions Faculty Research Day 2024 Research Award, ASU College of Health Solutions 2024 Best Poster Award, ASU College of Health Solutions Faculty Research Day 2018 Early Career Development Award, National Science Foundation (NSF CAREER) 2018 Early Career Award, WSU School of EECS Dr. Ghasemzadeh actively mentors numerous graduate students in the Embedded Machine Intelligence Lab (EMIL), with current PhD students including Eric Junyoung Kim, Ebrahim Farahmad, Saman Khamesian, Shovito Barua Soumma, Pegah Khorasani, and others. His research has been funded by prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, with projects often focusing on developing innovative wearable health monitoring systems that have led to commercial applications such as WANDA and Sense4Baby. Dr. Ghasemzadeh leads the Embedded Machine Intelligence Lab (EMIL), which focuses on developing machine learning algorithms for embedded and wearable systems. The lab creates solutions that address real-world health challenges through interdisciplinary research that combines computer science, electrical engineering, and clinical medicine. Current projects include glucose prediction systems, Parkinson's disease detection tools, and personalized hydration monitoring applications.
Louis Rossi is a Professor and the inaugural Dean of the University of Delaware Graduate College, affiliated with the Department of Mathematical Sciences in the College of Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on numerical methods, computational fluid dynamics, and swarm dynamics, with applications to fluid flows, ecological systems, wireless networks, and robotics. He has advised students such as Riu Fang, Zhenyu He, and Claudio Torres in these domains. Research interests span mathematical biology, environmental modeling, network protocols, and control systems. Notable projects include modeling predator-prey interactions, optimizing wireless sensor networks, and analyzing information transfer in swarms. Rossi has developed computational tools like BlobFlow for fluid simulations and contributed to slime mold-inspired routing algorithms for sensor networks. His educational efforts include organizing international study programs, such as a mathematical modeling trip to Melbourne, and enhancing foundational math courses. Rossi’s work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and computational innovation.
Shirley M. Matteson is an Associate Professor of Middle Level Education and Associate Dean for Research and Staff/Faculty Development at Texas Tech University's College of Education. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (Mathematics Education) from Texas A&M University and has over 27 years of classroom teaching experience. Her roles include Interim Vice Provost for Outreach and Engagement and membership in Texas Tech's Teaching Academy. Education: Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction (Middle Grades Mathematics Education), Texas A&M University M.M. in Music Education, Hardin-Simmons University B.M.E. in Music Education, Greenville College Research focuses on mathematical representations, teacher preparation, professional development, and thinking structures in K-12 education. She emphasizes improving graduate students' research skills and uses a Literature Crosswalk method for literature reviews. Recent work includes community-engaged scholarship projects. Key Awards: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Linking Research and Practice Outstanding Publication Award (2010) SERA Extended Service Award (2018) Grants & Advising: Co-PI on U.S. Department of Education Investing in Innovation (i3) Grant Director of a Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED) STEM Certificate Grant Mentored students including Bryan, Cetin, and others in doctoral research Labs/Teams: Engaged in collaborative projects through the College of Education, focusing on STEM education and teacher development initiatives.
Quintin I. Cutts is a Professor in the School of Computing Science within the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Glasgow. He serves as a leading researcher in computing education with extensive contributions to programming pedagogy, educational frameworks development, and assessment methodologies across multiple educational levels from primary school through undergraduate programs. His research interests focus on computing education , particularly the development of educational frameworks like the ABC Framework for orienting learners in programming classes, spatial skills development in computational thinking, code comprehension strategies, and early-years computing education. His work bridges cognitive psychology with practical educational interventions, examining how spatial reasoning, argumentative reasoning, and physical activities impact programming learning outcomes. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on developing structured educational approaches for novice programmers, with particular attention to how spatial skills correlate with computational thinking development, how to design effective early programming experiences, and how to address participation inequalities in computer science education. His work increasingly focuses on practical frameworks that can be implemented in real classroom settings across different educational stages. Cutts has established significant collaborative networks through organizing UKICER (United Kingdom and Ireland Computing Education Research) conferences and participating in international computing education research communities. His mentoring approach is evident through frequent co-authorship with junior researchers including Jack Parkinson, Maria Kallia, and Joseph Maguire, who have become established researchers in the computing education field themselves. He has contributed to building research infrastructure through initiatives like Works-in-Progress workshops that support emerging scholars.
David Murungi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Information Systems at Bentley University. His expertise spans Health Information Systems, Social Implications of Technology, and IS Project Management. He holds a Ph.D. and MPA from Louisiana State University, and a BA from Williams College. His teaching focuses on Business Process Management and ERP Configuration, while his research explores healthcare IT governance, technology adoption in organizational settings, and IS sensemaking. Professional memberships include the New England Association of Information Systems, Academy of Management, and Association for Information Systems. He has actively contributed to the KPMG Ph.D. Project since 2007. Dr. Murungi’s work bridges theoretical and practical challenges in IT projects, with recent attention to AI-driven competitiveness and fake news dynamics. His research emphasizes argumentation frameworks, emotional labor in project management, and healthcare provider-patient dynamics in urgent care settings. Awards and honors are listed but specific details are not provided. His advising roles and grants are not explicitly documented here, though his extensive publication record reflects active engagement in interdisciplinary research. He is affiliated with Bentley’s Smith Technology Center and maintains a focus on real-world IT challenges through case studies and practitioner collaboration.
Hilde Forfang is an Associate Professor in Pedagogy at the University of Inland Norway, affiliated with the Faculty of Teacher Education and Pedagogy and the Center for Practice-Oriented Educational Research. She has been at SePU (now part of the university) since 2014. Her professional background includes roles as a primary school principal, municipal school advisor, and kindergarten director. Her research focuses on school leadership, organizational learning, and interorganizational dynamics in educational contexts, particularly in rural settings. Forfang holds a master’s degree in special education and a doctorate examining organizational characteristics of rural municipalities with sustained high school performance. She leads the 'Inclusive Learning Environments' project in the Hamar region and supports leadership development in Eidsvoll municipality. She contributes to the Master in Educational Leadership program at Innlandet University College, focusing on modules like 'Management of Development and Change Work' and 'Leadership in Kindergarten and School Environments.' Her research explores themes such as school ownership roles, quality improvement processes, and rural school development. Recent publications emphasize leadership strategies, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative learning systems. She often collaborates with international scholars and has published in journals like Education Sciences and Educational Management Administration & Leadership .
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