Speaker/Lecture/Seminar

Title: Have You Ever Seen the Shadow of a Laser Beam? & Quantum TelescopesAbstract: I will talk about two recent advances. First, have you ever seen the shadow of a laser beam? Is this even possible? Under certain conditions, a laser beam can control the transmittance of another laser beam creating a visible shadow. This new effect, called the laser shadow effect, opens many applications in new ways to manipulate light. In the second part, I will discuss how quantum optics can benefit the development of a new kind of telescope system. I will give an overview of the progress towards quantum telescopes and highlight some key breakthroughs in detectors and a recent milestone in working with multiple frequencies of light at the same time.About the Speaker: Raphael A. Abrahao obtained his Electrical Engineering Degree and Master's from the University of Campinas, Brazil, and his Ph.D. from the School of Mathematics and Physics at the University of Queensland, Australia. He was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Ottawa, Canada, researching quantum optics and photonics prior to joining the Brookhaven National Laboratory, NY, USA, as a postdoctoral research associate working on quantum telescopes and X-ray quantum technologies.

The UCF [Mathematics Colloquium](https://sciences.ucf.edu/math/colloquium/), held every Monday from 3:30 p.m. 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.Dr. [Gabriel Picioroaga](https://www.usd.edu/research-and-faculty/faculty-and-staff/gabriel-picioroaga), from the University of South Dakota, will speak at this week's colloquium on frames and group representations.Abstract: Frames are a versatile tool used in signal processing to encode, transmit and decode information. One of their strengths is redundancy, which provides flexibility with respect to erasures and noise. The rich theory of frame analysis and constructions integrates many areas of mathematics, such as harmonic analysis, measure theory, and operators in Hilbert spaces.In my talk, I will highlight both known and new connections between frames and representation theory. Specifically, I will show that the existence of frame vectors in certain countable group representations classifies the group and is related to group invariants such as amenability, Haagerup's property and property (T).

"People are people through other people." "I am human because I belong to the human community and I view and treat others accordingly."Join Kevin Chaplin, CEO of the Amy Foundation and the SA Ubuntu Foundation, for an inspiring conversation on Ubuntu--the powerful belief that we thrive together, not alone. Kevin's journey proves that forgiveness, community, and second chances can transform lives. Learn how his work is impacting thousands of at-risk youth in South Africa, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities through education and skills development.Why You Should Attend:* Discover how Ubuntu can help you build deeper connections and a stronger community. * Be inspired by the powerful story of the Amy Foundation, founded in memory of Fulbright Scholar Amy Biehl. * Learn from Kevin's experience--from banking executive to global changemaker. * Get real insights on leadership, resilience, and making the impossible possible.Kevin's story is featured in his book, "CAN DO! Making the Impossible, POSSIBLE." This is more than a talk--it's a movement. Come see how Ubuntu can shape your life, your leadership, and your future. Don't miss it!

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.

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)!

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

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.

A webinar providing an overview of the marketing process for small business, as well as a close look at all elements of a marketing plan. Marketing is the driver of revenue growth and an imperative for small business success. Topics include the traditional four "P's" of marketing - Product, Place, Promotion, and Price - as well as three new "P's" with special application to small businesses - Positioning, People, and Planning.Virtual Location URL: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/marketing-basics-webinar-5a1eVO6ifqP/overview Registration Link: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/marketing-basics-webinar-5a1eVO6ifqP/overview

The Department of History and RICHES will host eight panelists across five interactive stations.This event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: https://cah.ucf.edu/events/celebrates/ Registration Info: For more information.

Join us for an exciting evening showcasing the innovative work of UCF's SVAD graduating seniors from the nationally ranked Emerging Media BFA program. Engage with the future of Orlando's design community, connecting with talented students as they showcase groundbreaking projects in the Graphic Design and Animation & Visualization tracks. The evening will conclude with inspiring presentations from distinguished industry guests, sharing their creative insights and career wisdom. Don't miss this unique chance to be a part of the next chapter in Orlando's thriving creative scene!This event is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2025. Registration Link: http://Arts.ucf.edu/celebrates Registration Info: For more information.