A touring film series that showcases contemporary Spanish films to audiences in the US, co-presented by the Cultural Office of the Embassy of Spain and the Department of Modern Languages at the University of Central Florida. The series presents a diverse range of films from both established and emerging Spanish filmmakers, highlighting the current talent and different styles within the country's cinema. Known for featuring award-winning films, such as those recognized at the Goya Awards, it is now coming to Orlando! All screenings will be in original version (Spanish) with English subtitles. Do not miss this opportunity!RSVP required! Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spanish-cinema-now-2025-tickets-1748964502909?aff=oddtdtcreator Registration Info: RSVP here

Our [Colloquium](https://sciences.ucf.edu/math/colloquium/) series offers a diverse platform for research scholars, faculty, students, and industry experts to share and exchange ideas, fostering discussion and networking across mathematics, statistics, and data science.Our own Professor [Christian Kummerle](https://sciences.ucf.edu/math/person/christian-kummerle/) will speak at this week's colloquium on "Iterative Quadratic Reweighting for Low-Rank Neural Network Training & Minimum-Cost Flow Problems."Abstract: Parameter-efficient training, based on low-rank optimization, has become a highly successful tool for fine-tuning large deep learning models. However, these methods fail at low-rank pretraining tasks, where maintaining both the low-rank structure and the training loss remains challenging.In this talk, we present recent work on the Quadratic Reweighted Rank Regularizer (Q3R), which leads to a novel low-rank inducing training strategy inspired by the iteratively reweighted least squares (IRLS) framework. The strategy includes an adaptation of the state-of-the-art AdamW optimizer [Loshchilov, Hutter 2018] to Q3R. Unlike other low-rank training techniques, Q3R is able to train weight matrices with prescribed, low target ranks of models that achieve comparable predictive performance as dense models, with small computational overhead, while remaining fully compatible with existing architectures.In the second part of the talk, we present ongoing work on a novel continuous solver for non-convex minimum cost network problems such as the fixed-charge network flow problem. Such problems arise in multipart pathfinding problems in the Lightning Network, the leading layer-two scaling technology for the Bitcoin protocol. This talk is based on joint work with Ipsita Ghosh, Sindura Saraswathi, Ethan Nguyen and Andrew Chen.Speaker Bio: Dr. Christian Kummerle joined UCF's School of Data, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (SDMSS) as an assistant professor in 2025 and is affiliated with the UCF Institute of Artificial Intelligence. His research interests are in the mathematical foundations of machine learning and the development and analysis of efficient algorithms for large-scale data analysis. His research leverages continuous optimization to address computational and statistical challenges arising from data models involving graph, sparsity and low-rank structures, leading to scalable algorithms with provable guarantees. Dr. Kummerle was a postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins University from 2020 to 2022, an assistant professor of computer science at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte between 2022 and 2025, and received a doctoral degree in mathematics from Technical University of Munich. His research has been published at premier venues in machine learning (JMLR, ICML, NeurIPS) and in mathematics.

Compete for $15,000 in cash prizes by pitching bold ideas that create real-world impact.This interactive workshop will guide you through everything you need to know to compete in the UCF Innovation Tournament.Competition Tracks:* Art and Entertainment * Social and Health * Retail Products and Services * Advanced TechnologyRegistration Link: https://ucf.startuptree.co/discover/events?s=s

This virtual webinar event is sponsored by Orange County Government as part of the Florida SBDC at UCF's Orange County Strategic Series.Make your future happen; don't let it happen to you. With a strategic plan, you will be able to establish your company's direction, make better business decisions, and have a source of increased market share and profitability.Strategic planning is a series of building blocks, including:* Financial Plan * Marketing Plan * Business Plan * Strategic PlanWhile most planning workshops address these plans separately, this two-part webinar series (Part I: Thursday, Oct. 16, and Part II: Thursday, Oct. 23) will present these four complementary planning events (two per webinar) as a series of activities that build on each other to create an effective, long-term strategic plan for your business that enables you to design your company's future and supports its sustainable growth and success. Includes multiple user-friendly tools and templates to be distributed.Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/success-is-no-accident-strategic-planning-for-small-businesses-part-i-5a1eVO9p3GR/overview Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/success-is-no-accident-strategic-planning-for-small-businesses-part-i-5a1eVO9p3GR/overview

2025 Lecture SeriesSponsored by the Eurasia Foundation (From Asia)With 60 percent of the world's population, Asia is not only home to the world's oldest civilizations, it also represents cultural and economic vitality. Asia has a major role in manufacturing, technology and investment markets. Non-governmental organizations specializing in economic development, healthcare and environmental protection are also active throughout Asia. This series will provide a rare opportunity for students and the community to develop a better understanding of the cultural, political and economic forces that have shaped modern Asia by hearing from esteemed international scholars.Food Education and Rural Resilience in Contemporary Japan (2025)Stephanie Assmann Professor of Global Business, School of Economics and Management, University of Hyogo, Kobe, Japan[Eurasian Lecture Series 2025 - College of Arts and Humanities](https://cah.ucf.edu/eurasia-lectures-2025/)Virtual Location URL: https://cah.ucf.edu/eurasia-lectures-2025/

During the next several Wednesdays, CREOL faculty will present brief highlights of their research activities. The talks take place at noon in Room 103, with two professors each giving a 25-minute presentation.Attendance is mandatory for all first-semester Ph.D. students.SEPTEMBER 312:00: Ayman Abouraddy12:30: Christian HeideSEPTEMBER 10No presentationsSEPTEMBER 1712:00: Sean Pang12:30: Yannick SalaminSEPTEMBER 2412:00: Konstantin Vodopyanov12:30: Shin-Tson WuOCTOBER 112:00: Joshua Kaufman12:30: Kristopher DavisOCTOBER 812:00: Kyle Renshaw12:30: Peter DelfyettOCTOBER 1512:00: Eric Johnson12:30: Ivan DivlianskyOCTOBER 2212:00: Murat Yuskel12:30: Li FangOCTOBER 2912:00: Kyu Young Han12:30: Leland NordinNOVEMBER 512:00: TBD12:30: Midya PartoNOVEMBER 1212:00: Sasan Fathpour12:30: Debashis ChandaNOVEMBER 1912:00: Stephen Eikenberry12:30: TBD

Compete for $15,000 in cash prizes by pitching bold ideas that create real-world impact.This interactive workshop will guide you through everything you need to know to compete in the UCF Innovation Tournament.Competition Tracks:* Art and Entertainment * Social and Health * Retail Products and Services * Advanced TechnologyRegistration Link: https://ucf.startuptree.co/discover/events

The UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS)'s Zoom-cast series is live-streamed every other Friday from noon to 1 p.m., offering talks by CECS faculty and a live-chat Q&A.Targeted to faculty, scientists, and potential industry and government partners, [all are invited to Zoom-in](https://ucf.zoom.us/j/95525633786) and hear presentations by UCF's engineering and computer science faculty who explain their cutting-edge, pioneering research endeavors in quick snapshots.These talks provide an opportunity to get to know -- and collaborate with -- our faculty who are advancing innovations in all areas of engineering and computer science, including smart city technology, aerospace, energy, modeling and simulation, medicine, advanced materials, cyber security and more. Each faculty presenter will narrate as they share illustrative slides.Moderated by Subith Vasu from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, viewers can submit questions in real time and express interest in collaborating.The Oct. 31, 2025, presenter lineup:* Yao Li, School of Modeling, Simulation and Training: "Empowering Users in Real-Time Privacy Management" * Shin Young Jeong, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: "Sand-Like Particles for High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage: Enabling a Resilient Renewable Energy Future" * Gerd Bruder, Department of Computer Science: "Recent Advances in Human Factors and Digital Twins in Extended Reality"You can find more details in the [Oct. 31 faculty research talk flyer](https://www.cecs.ucf.edu/web/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Oct-31-2025-faculty-research-talk-flyer-web-accessible.pdf).[](https://www.cecs.ucf.edu/web/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Oct-17-2025-faculty-research-talk-flyer-web-accessible.pdf)Missed a session? Check out [recordings of past research talks](https://bit.ly/3cyb6He).Virtual Location URL: https://bit.ly/3ILqC1l

Title: Analysis and Control of Straylight in a Maksutov-Cassegrain TelescopeAbstract: The world of small satellites is evolving quickly. In particular, the increasing availability of low-cost launch and commercially available hardware provides an opportunity to reduce the overall cost of science missions. The optical design forms used for the sensing and imaging telescopes used in small satellites are well known.In this talk, I will use an example of the Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope design form and review how to ensure that the optical system can perform its function by accounting for and controlling stray light. I will demonstrate how a systems level approach is necessary and is facilitated by non-sequential optical analysis software. The various techniques for identifying stray light risk and mitigating the risk will be reviewed and discussed. About the Speaker: Larry Boxler is currently a senior illumination systems engineer at Synopsys Optical Solutions Group. He received a bachelor's degree in optical engineering from Rose Hulman Institute of Technology and has over 30 years of experience in optical system design and analysis. His expertise spans a wide range of optical systems, including illumination devices, projector components, lidar systems and stray light control. He has also contributed to software development for optical engineering applications, enhancing tools used for non-imaging optical design and stray light analysis. He holds multiple patents related to LED lighting systems and optical designs.Virtual Location URL: https://ucf.zoom.us/j/99238120659?from=addon

As part of [UCF Space Week](https://www.ucf.edu/spaceweek/), this two-day summit explores settlement and exploration challenges and innovations tied to Mars. The Mars-focused dialogue will include technical panels, visionary talks, and networking opportunities. Hosted in partnership with the National Space Society. *This is an invite only event

As part of [UCF Space Week](https://www.ucf.edu/spaceweek/), this two-day summit explores settlement and exploration challenges and innovations tied to Mars. The Mars-focused dialogue will include technical panels, visionary talks, and networking opportunities. Hosted in partnership with the National Space Society. *This is an invite only event

This virtual webinar is sponsored by Orange County Government as part of the Florida SBDC at UCF's Orange County Strategic Series.Make your future happen; don't let it happen to you. With a strategic plan, you will be able to establish your company's direction, make better business decisions, and have a source of increased market share and profitability. Strategic planning is a series of building blocks including:* Financial Plan * Marketing Plan * Business Plan * Strategic PlanWhile most planning workshops address these plans separately, this two-part webinar series (Part I: Thursday, Oct. 16, and Part II: Thursday, Oct. 23) will present these four complementary planning events (two per webinar) as a series of activities that build on each other to create an effective, long-term strategic plan for your business that enables you to design your company's future and supports its sustainable growth and success. Includes multiple user-friendly tools and templates to be distributed.Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/success-is-no-accident-strategic-planning-for-small-businesses-part-ii-5a1eVO9p9P3/overview Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/success-is-no-accident-strategic-planning-for-small-businesses-part-ii-5a1eVO9p9P3/overview

2025 Lecture SeriesSponsored by the Eurasia Foundation (From Asia)With 60 percent of the world's population, Asia is not only home to the world's oldest civilizations, it also represents cultural and economic vitality. Asia has a major role in manufacturing, technology and investment markets. Non-governmental organizations specializing in economic development, healthcare and environmental protection are also active throughout Asia. This series will provide a rare opportunity for students and the community to develop a better understanding of the cultural, political and economic forces that have shaped modern Asia by hearing from esteemed international scholars.Rise of Asia in Our Globalized WorldWenxian Zhang Professor and Head of Archives & Special Collections at Olin Library, Rollins College[Eurasian Lecture Series 2025 - College of Arts and Humanities](https://cah.ucf.edu/eurasia-lectures-2025/)Virtual Location URL: https://cah.ucf.edu/eurasia-lectures-2025/

As part of [UCF Space Week](https://www.ucf.edu/spaceweek/), this flagship global event convenes industry, government, and academia to explore innovations in space tech, financing, private space stations, orbital compute, satellite intelligence, and more. Sessions will examine global security, space governance, AI in orbit, lunar infrastructure, investment trends, and other space economy-related topics. Hosted in partnership with The Economist. *This is an invite only event

This is a 2.5 to 3 hour virtual 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-5a1eVO8U07d Registration Link: https://sbdcorlando.com/upcoming-seminars/

During the next several Wednesdays, CREOL faculty will present brief highlights of their research activities. The talks take place at noon in Room 103, with two professors each giving a 25-minute presentation.Attendance is mandatory for all first-semester Ph.D. students.SEPTEMBER 312:00: Ayman Abouraddy12:30: Christian HeideSEPTEMBER 10No presentationsSEPTEMBER 1712:00: Sean Pang12:30: Yannick SalaminSEPTEMBER 2412:00: Konstantin Vodopyanov12:30: Shin-Tson WuOCTOBER 112:00: Joshua Kaufman12:30: Kristopher DavisOCTOBER 812:00: Kyle Renshaw12:30: Peter DelfyettOCTOBER 1512:00: Eric Johnson12:30: Ivan DivlianskyOCTOBER 2212:00: Murat Yuskel12:30: Li FangOCTOBER 2912:00: Kyu Young Han12:30: Leland NordinNOVEMBER 512:00: TBD12:30: Midya PartoNOVEMBER 1212:00: Sasan Fathpour12:30: Debashis ChandaNOVEMBER 1912:00: Stephen Eikenberry12:30: TBD

* Vous voulez ameliorer votre français oral? (Would you like to improve your French speaking skills?) * Vous aimeriez connaitre des etudiant.e.s qui ont la meme passion que vous pour la langue française?(Would you like to meet students who share your passion for the French language?)Bienvenu.e.s au cafe francophone! Venez echanger avec vos collegues etudiant.e.s dans une ambiance decontractee. (Welcome to the French cafe! Come and chat with your colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.)Pour qui? Les etudiant.e.s de niveau 2000 (intermediaire) et +, ou etudiant.e.s francophones. (For students at the 2000 level (intermediate) or higher, or French speakers)

Documentary screening and Q&A with director Peter Miller.Presented by the Neil Euliano Chair in Italian StudiesMarcella Hazan didn't just teach Italian cooking--she changed the way America eats. Fearless, passionate, and exacting, she introduced authentic recipes to millions. Julia Child called Marcella "my mentor in all things Italian." Featuring Jacques Pepin, Danny Meyer, April Bloomfield, and Lidia Bastianich, this intimate portrait reveals the beloved woman who forever shaped home kitchens.This is a free event. Refreshments will be provided.

As part of [UCF Space Week](https://www.ucf.edu/spaceweek/), this flagship global event convenes industry, government, and academia to explore innovations in space tech, financing, private space stations, orbital compute, satellite intelligence, and more. Sessions will examine global security, space governance, AI in orbit, lunar infrastructure, investment trends, and other space economy-related topics. Hosted in partnership with The Economist. *This is an invite only event

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/g/x4W8BcsAj4/how-to-start-your-business-5a1eVO9qYEv Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/g/x4W8BcsAj4/how-to-start-your-business-5a1eVO9qYEv