Speaker/Lecture/Seminar

This is not an introduction to government contracting for the 'faint of heart.' This is a 2.5 to 3.0 hour training session designed to help two groups of business: (1) those just exploring or brand new to government contracting and (2) those down the path a bit looking to backfill some gaps. You can join late or leave early and still learn something about government contracting, but those that stick around for the whole program will receive a practical, frank overview of the government contracting process.This webinar covers the following areas:* Introduction to the Government Contracting Process * Components of a "GIB Ready" Business * Suggestions for an Initial Marketing Tool Kit * Reactive Business Development Strategies * Proactive Business Development Strategies * Introduction to the SBA's Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database * Potential Next StepsIn addition to the instruction, attendees will have the opportunity to receive handouts that are practical tools in helping develop your government contracting programs. The handouts will also include the slide deck of the presentation which will include a number of live links to research resources, registration sites and certification programs.This class will be delivered by one of the Florida APEX Accelerator Consultants at UCF. The Florida APEX Accelerator provides no cost government contracting consulting to small businesses.This event is sponsored by the Florida SBDC at UCF.Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/g/x4W8BcsAj4/government-contracting-overview-5a1eVO6iZEj Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/g/x4W8BcsAj4/government-contracting-overview-5a1eVO6iZEj

Host: UCF SIAM Graduate Student Chapter What: Weekly Seminar on Topics in Math or Applied Math When: 11 a.m. - Noon, Wednesdays Where: MSB 318Speakers vary by week

The CCIE virtual bi-weekly research circles includes presentations and conversations from UCF's College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE) faculty, as well as faculty from other colleges at UCF with a focus on collaborative, innovative, interdisciplinary, community-based research initiatives.Presentations provide opportunities to connect with faculty in CCIE and share opportunities of mutual interest.Presenters from the community and government agencies are also invited to join in the discussion and explore ways to engage in research and innovation at UCF.DATES and TOPICSJanuary 22, 2025 Writing and Publishing in Peer-Reviewed JournalsFebruary 5, 2025 Faculty Research Fellows: Tips for Success and Value of CollaborationFebruary 19, 2025 International EngagementMarch 5, 2025 University and College Communication Resources for Amplifying Research VisibilityApril 2, 2025 Efforts to Engage Communities and Researchers to Strengthen Community ResilienceApril 16, 2025 Public Safety - NIJVirtual Location URL: https://ucf.zoom.us/j/95985035483?pwd=4JGOCuKFKGIGy6TFDdt6xaec3hSPhf.1#success

The India Center at UCF presents its inaugural Distinguished Lecture, featuring Vivek Lall, Ph.D., Chief Executive of General Atomics Global Corporation.From a unique vantage point of being a STEM researcher, a business entrepreneur and with stellar experience of leading major technology initiatives at the highest levels, Dr. Vivek Lall will explore the dynamic partnership between two global powerhouses in science and technology -- the United States and India. U.S. global leadership and India's rise as a major power are predicated not only on their shared values and mutual strategic partnership, but also their joint initiatives and entrepreneurship of the global technological landscape.This lecture delves into the growing synergies in research, innovation, and development, highlighting how the two democracies are collaborating across sectors in science and technology. By examining the shared vision for advancing technological progress and concrete policy mechanisms, the lecture will explore the strategies that are shaping this cooperation, including joint ventures, academic partnerships, and government initiatives. It will also discuss the challenges and opportunities in strengthening this critical alliance, focusing on how India and the U.S. are positioning themselves to lead the next wave of global technological advancements.The discussion will be moderated by Jayanta Kapat, Ph.D., Pegasus Professor and the director of the Center for Advanced Turbomachinery and Energy Research (CATER). Registration Link: https://ucf.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bvDvqqEstawcHOe

Before you come see Theatre UCF's Fiddler on the Roof and the School of Visual Arts and Design's Chagall-inspired 3D sculptures, join art historian Keri Watson, Ph.D., and theatre professor Julia Listengarten, Ph.D., to learn about one of the most influential and popular modern artists: Marc Chagall.The Bellorussian-born French artist's work was inspired by Russian folktales, Jewish stories, and the modernism art movement, but Chagall didn't fit into any one specific style. He created a dream-like reality with bright colors, exaggerated proportions, and overlapping images. Hear more about the life and work of Marc Chagall who revisited the theme of the "fiddler on the roof" many times throughout his long career.This event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: https://cah.ucf.edu/events/celebrates/ Registration Info: For more information.

If you're thinking of starting a business, it's important to take the right steps. This two-and-a-half-hour virtual webinar will give you an overview of what to know, important actions to take, and best practices on how to avoid common missteps to give your company its greatest chance of success.Learn about the journey from pre-venture to start-up to opening your business as this training covers:* Business legal entity selection, * Registration and licensing, * Market research and planning, * Financial planning and sources of capital, * and more…Register today!Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/how-to-start-your-business-5a1eVO6ifbt/overview Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/how-to-start-your-business-5a1eVO6ifbt/overview

Enjoy a full evening showcasing student work, a presentation with AIA National Firm of the Year Quinn Evans Architects, scholarship awards and more!* Networking & Cocktail Hour at 5:30 p.m. * Architecture presentation featuring: * Presentation of architectural work from UCF, UF and Valencia * Awarding of student scholarships * Gallery of student and local architects' fine artworkPresented in partnership with the University of Florida, Valencia College and the Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA).This event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: http://Arts.ucf.edu/celebrates Registration Info: For more information.

Enjoy readings from the graduating students of UCF's creative writing MFA program.Hosted by the UCF Department of English.Write of Passage 2025 showcases the work and talent of the Spring 2025 graduating students of UCF's creative writing MFA graduate program.This reading will feature works by Ian Abercrombie, Jayleen Cerda, Gabrielle Decker Fernandez, Aloysius Devine, Carolina Guzman, Nina Lopez, Emily Miller, Drew Robertson, Sophia Saco, Eric Tegethoff, and Nataliia Vatolina.Arrive early to enjoy a showcase of other projects from the UCF English department, including:* The Florida Review, UCF's international literary journal * The Cypress Dome, UCF's undergraduate student literary journal * Writers in the Sun, UCF's visiting writers' series * UCF Creative Writing faculty book displayThis event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: http://arts.ucf.edu/celebrates Registration Info: For more information.

Discover what a digital twin is, how it informs buildings, and how it can enhance research methodology.This event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: http://Arts.ucf.edu/celebrates Registration Info: For more information.

Title: Pushing the Limits of Imaging and Display using Machine Learning and Artificial IntelligenceAbstract: My research harnesses machine learning to re-imagine how we approach the design, engineering and analysis of optical systems.In this seminar, I will first highlight my Ph.D. research in the field of super-resolution optical microscopy. I will present a suite of techniques that enable tiny biological structures to be captured with a resolution superior to the diffraction limit. In discussing this work, I will pay particular attention to the central role of statistical inference and data analysis in constructing super-resolution images and developing novel 3D bio-imaging capabilities.In the second part of my talk, I will introduce a nanophotonic technology termed optical metasurfaces. These thin, nearly transparent structures can mimic conventional optics such as lenses and can be mass-produced using well-established nanofabrication processes. I will show how deep learning concepts such as the backpropagation algorithm can be re-purposed to discover top-performing metasurface designs and realize unconventional applications such as an "all-optical" neural network. The underlying physical modeling techniques used to develop such systems may be applied to address scaling issues associated with both classical and quantum optical computing platforms.Finally, I will present my most recent work developing simulation software for the design of an augmented reality (AR) display. I will discuss my experience deploying machine learning toolsets to address longstanding high-performance computing challenges in an industry setting.Bio: Adam Backer is a senior machine learning scientist at Apple contributing to the next generation of wearable augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) display technology. Prior to joining Apple, Adam was a Harry S. Truman Fellow and later a Senior Member of the Technical Staff at Sandia National Labs. Adam received his Ph.D. in Computational and Mathematical Engineering from Stanford in 2016, where he performed his doctoral research in the lab of W. E. Moerner and was supported by an NDSEG fellowship. Adam holds an M.Phil. in Engineering from Cambridge University (2009), and a B.S. in Engineering and Physics from Brown University (2008).Virtual Location URL: https://ucf.zoom.us/j/95780562497

The UCF [Mathematics Colloquium](https://sciences.ucf.edu/math/colloquium/), held every Monday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in MSB 318, offers a diverse platform for research scholars, faculty, students, and industry experts to share and exchange ideas, fostering discussion and networking across various areas of mathematics.[Zeljko Cuckovic, Ph.D,](http://math.utoledo.edu/~zcuckov/) from University of Toledo will speak at this week's colloquium on invertibility of Toeplitz operators on the Bergman space.Abstract: Characterizing invertibility of a Toelitz operator $T_\varphi$ on the Bergman space in terms of the properties of the symbol $\varphi$ has been a long standing open problem. Partial answers can be given by assuming the positivity of the symbol. In this talk we introduce a novel geometric condition on the image of the symbols, which relaxes the standard positivity condition. We will also discuss the related Douglas' problem. (Joint work with Jari Taskinen)

Listeners can hear and learn from a UCF NSCM Hall of Famer about all the ins and outs, positives and negatives of networking, socializing, building a career, starting a new business and everything in between. Come explore the personal and professional aspect of how the world works these days in business and in life.\--Heissam "I'm in" Jebailey is the CEO, Founder and Host of the World's Largest Black and White Weekend for Charity and Wellness spanning over 15 years in support of BASE Camp Children's Cancer Foundation. He has a real estate license and team that specializes in commercial and residential real estate. He owns and manages airbnbs, has a passion for fitness and loves breaking personal and professional records every chance he gets. But most of all, he loves sharing and helping UCF students along the way whenever he can as a UCF Alum and student at heart himself. Registration Link: https://ucf.startuptree.co/event/s/mhERqThxCz7BnjfkHNGSaw/I%25E2%2580%2599m-In.-To-Promoting%252C-Branding%252C-and-Building-my-Career-and-Business

You're invited!TCH 358B or ZoomSpeaker:Fabian BalmoriAssociate Professor of Spanish, Spring Hill CollegeChair, Modern Languages, Literatures, and CulturesProgram Director, Latin American StudiesWith the support of the UCF Latin American, Caribbean, and Latinx Studies program.Virtual Location URL: https://ucf.zoom.us/j/92581285402

Capability Statement Boot Camppowered by the APEX Accelerator at UCFA capability statement is a popular piece of marketing collateral in government contracting. It a one-page summary of the business much like a 'company resume' and can be a great tool to introduce your business. A capability statement will not be the only piece of marketing collateral that you use in government contracting, but it can be a great first step.The APEX Accelerator at UCF will present a detailed introduction to the capability statement and how it can be used in government contracting. Highlights will include:* An Overview of the Capability Statement * A Review of Key Components of a Capability Statement: Core Competencies, Differentiators, Past Performance * The Importance of Customizing Your Capability StatementOur speaker will also review some example capability statements as part of this discussion, and the hope is that there will be at least one or two clients who are willing to have their capability statements reviewed in front of the audience as well.Join us for this training session focused on the cornerstone of your government contracting marketing effort!This event is sponsored by the Florida SBDC at UCF.Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/g/x4W8BcsAj4/capability-statement-boot-camp-5a1eVO6iUi5 Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/g/x4W8BcsAj4/capability-statement-boot-camp-5a1eVO6iUi5

In today's competitive business landscape, outstanding customer service isn't just an advantage, it's a necessity. This engaging and interactive session explores the vital role customer service plays in building brand loyalty, driving revenue and fostering long-term business success. Whether you're in sales, support or leadership, understanding how to create exceptional customer experiences can set you apart and elevate your organization. We'll discuss real-world examples of companies that have mastered the art of service and analyze how their approaches drive customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, we'll discuss some creative ideas on how you can separate yourself from the competition.Be sure to [RSVP](https://ucf.startuptree.co/event/s/nLwFA6BYGLqfgdiW4RHJtt/The-Art-of-Creating-Loyal-Customers)!

The UCF School of Visual Arts and Design is proud to welcome artist Noelle Mason as part of the SVAD Distinguished Artist Series on April 8. The SVAD Distinguished Artist Series is an initiative that introduces the UCF students and community to professional and emerging contemporary artists in various fields of study.Artist Biography:Noelle Mason is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work is about the subtle seductiveness of power facilitated by systems of visual and institutional control. Noelle has shown nationally and internationally in a variety of non-traditional spaces, galleries, and institutions including the National Museum of Mexican Art, Orlando Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. She is the recipient of a Joan Mitchell Foundation Artist Grant, Jerome fellowship, Santo Foundation Individual Artist Grant, the Florida Prize for Contemporary Art and the Southern Prize. In 2004 Noelle was a resident at the Skowhegan school of Painting and Sculpture. She holds a BA in both theatre and fine arts from the University of California, Irvine and received her MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Noelle currently holds the position of Associate Professor of Art at the University of South Florida and is the Founding Director and Curator of Parallelogram Gallery in Tampa, FL.

Title: AI-Enhanced Photonic SensingAbstract: The fusion of AI and photonic sensing is transforming how we detect, analyze, and interpret optical signals, with applications spanning biomedical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial automation. In this talk, I will present my research on AI-enhanced photonic sensors, demonstrating how machine learning algorithms can significantly improve sensitivity, selectivity, and unlock new sensing capabilities. I will discuss key innovations in AI-enhanced photonic sensing, including optical resonance barcodes, AI-driven multiparameter sensing, and cavity-enhanced photoacoustic detection, leveraging whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) microresonators as a sensing platform. These resonators, with their ultrahigh quality factors and strong light-matter interactions, enable ultra-sensitive, label-free detection. Beyond enhancing sensing performance, AI-enhanced sensors unlock capabilities beyond conventional sensors, enabling adaptive, real-time detection in dynamic and complex environments with enhanced robustness and precision. The techniques developed for WGM-based sensors provide a transferable framework that can be adapted to other sensing systems. Looking ahead, I will outline future research directions that integrate AI, photonics, and microfabrication to develop intelligent sensors with broad applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and security.About the Speaker: Jie Liao is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Washington University in St. Louis. He obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Washington University in St. Louis in 2023. He received his M.S. and B.S. in Optics and Photonics from Fudan University, China, in 2017. His research focuses on AI-enhanced photonic sensing techniques and systems, with a particular emphasis on their applications in biosensing and diagnostics. He is a recipient of the Danforth Scholar recognition at Washington University in St. Louis.Virtual Location URL: https://ucf.zoom.us/j/96981631939

Host: UCF SIAM Graduate Student Chapter What: Weekly Seminar on Topics in Math or Applied Math When: 11 a.m. - Noon, Wednesdays Where: MSB 318Speakers vary by week

[Mathematics Biology Seminar](https://sciences.ucf.edu/math/mathbio/mathematical-biology-seminar/) 2-3 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 2025 MSB 318Speaker: [Christen Fleming, Ph.D.](https://sciences.ucf.edu/biology/person/christen-fleming/) Department of Biology University of Central FloridaTitle: Resource selection and habitat suitability in animal movement and species distributionAbstract: There is currently a divide between mathematical and applied models of animal movement in the context of spatial covariates, where individuals move in a way to select resources and avoid risks. Whereas mathematical biologists tend to consider animal movement as advection-diffusion equations, applied ecologists tend to consider animal movement in a discrete choice framework. While advection diffusion-equations provide continuous-time mathematical descriptions of movement, they generally require unrealistic assumptions regarding the continuity of spatial covariates. On the other hand, while discrete choice models can be easily fit to data, their discrete-time structure limits inferential capabilities. This seminar will explore integrating these approaches to enhance our understanding of resource selection and habitat suitability. By constructing continuous-time models of resource selection, we aim to develop a comprehensive framework that can accurately predict resource utilization patterns and inform conservation and management strategies.

Cyrus Zargar, Ph.D., the Department of Philosophy's Endowed Al-Ghazali Distinguished Professor in Islamic Studies, will present "Persian Sufi Poetry and Contemporary Cinema: The Gaze according to Majid Majidi." Majid Majidi's films capture contradictions in Iranian life: anonymity and identity; poverty and joy; and disability and extraordinary skill. To do so, Majidi draws from the classical Persian Sufi literary tradition. His focus on themes related to sight, as well as his neorealist style, centers the gaze as one of the most powerful themes in his work.