Work with thought leaders and academic experts in Astronomy

Jim Samuel is an Associate Professor of Practice and Executive Director of the Informatics Program at the Bloustein School. He is an information and artificial intelligence (AI) scientist, with significant industry experience in finance, technology, entrepreneurship and data analytics. Dr. Samuel’s primary research covers human intelligence and artificial intelligences interaction and information philosophy.  Dr. Samuel’s applied research focuses on the optimal use of big data and smart data driven AI applications, textual analytics, natural language processing and artificially intelligent public opinion informatics. His expertise extends to socioeconomic implications of AI, applied machine learning, social media analytics, AI education and AI bias. Dr. Samuel completed his Ph.D. from the Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College – City University of New York, and he also has M.Arch and M.B.A (International Finance) degrees.  Dr. Samuel has worked with large multinational financial services corporations, and advises businesses and organizations on data analytics and AI driven value creation strategies. He is passionate about research driven thought leadership in AI, information philosophy, analytics and informatics. 

Dr. Sowell is an accomplished aerospace professional with a rich career spanning over five decades. His extensive background encompasses roles as an Aircraft Technician, Pilot, Aerospace Contractor, Consultant, and Educator, blending practical expertise with scholarly pursuits in Aerospace Science, Planetary Science, and Archaeo-Astronomy. Dr. Sowell has made significant contributions to aerospace innovation, education, and exploration, leveraging his depth of knowledge as a NASA Educator, Astronomy Professor, and published author. Dr. Sowell's career is distinguished by his commitment to advancing aerospace technology and knowledge, demonstrated through his varied roles, scholarly achievements, and active participation in professional societies. His work epitomizes the intersection of science, exploration, and education, making substantial contributions to the fields of aerospace sciences, planetary sciences, astronomy, and archaeology.

Ricco Venterea is an accomplished astronomer with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Astronomy from Cornell University and a PhD candidate in Astronomy from the University of California, Riverside. He has a passion for studying the mysteries of the universe and has dedicated his career to advancing our understanding of the cosmos. During his undergraduate studies at Cornell, Ricco excelled in his coursework and was chosen to participate in a research assistantship. This opportunity allowed him to work closely with esteemed faculty members and gain hands-on experience in conducting astronomical research. His work at Cornell focused on the study of asteroids. After completing his undergraduate degree, Ricco will pursue a PhD in Astronomy at the University of California, Riverside. He continued to excel in his studies and was awarded several research grants to support his work. In addition to his academic achievements, Ricco has also presented his research at various national and international conferences and has published several papers in reputable scientific journals. He is highly respected in the astronomy community and has collaborated with other leading scientists in the field. Ricco is a dedicated and passionate researcher who is committed to advancing our understanding of the universe. He continues to make significant contributions to the field of astronomy and is considered a rising star in the scientific community. With his expertise and drive, he is sure to make groundbreaking discoveries in the years to come.

James C. Kaufman is a Professor of Educational Psychology at the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut. He has written or edited more than 50 books. These include: the recently published *The Creativity Advantage* (Cambridge); the forthcoming *Lessons in Creativity from Musical Theatre Characters* (with Dana P. Rowe; Routledge); two editions of *Cambridge Handbook of Creativity* (with Robert J. Sternberg) and five other Cambridge Handbooks; two editions of *Creativity 101* (Springer); and a book on terrible baseball pitchers with his father and a book on pseudoscience with his wife. James has developed many theories, most notably the Four C’s (with Ron Beghetto). He has developed several self-report measures of creativity and is currently focusing on positive outcomes of creativity. James has won many awards, including Mensa’s research award, the Torrance Award from the National Association for Gifted Children, the World Council for Gifted and Talented Children’s International Creativity Award, and APA’s Berlyne, Arnheim, and Farnsworth awards. He co-founded two major journals, *Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts* and *Psychology of Popular Media Culture* and is the current Senior Associate Editor for *Creativity Research Journal*. He has tested Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s creativity on CNN; written the book and lyrics to the musical *Discovering Magenta* (which played NYC and has a cast album); and appeared onscreen, complete with white lab coat, in the comic book documentary *Independents*.