Thomas Edison State University (TESU) invites students, staff, alumni, and the broader community to join them on Wednesday, December 4, at 1 p.m. for University Day in commemoration of the school’s attainment of university status in 2015. This annual event celebrates TESU’s commitment to fostering dialogue, expanding perspectives, and cultivating critical thinkers at the intersection of society and higher education.
As TESU reflects on its journey since achieving university status, it continues to prioritize innovation as a guiding principle. This year, TESU welcomes Rhianna Rogers, Ph.D., as the featured speaker. Rogers is an independent researcher and former director of the RAND Center to Advance Racial Equality Policy. With extensive experience in creating inclusive spaces, she offers insight into how educators can build inclusive learning environments that spark creativity and foster holistic student development.
In her keynote presentation titled “The Transformative Possibilities of Technology in Higher Education: Case Studies from an Interdisciplinary Career Journey,” Rogers delves into her career journey, highlighting how technology can be driving force for both innovations and inequities.
By emphasizing her prior work in the digital equity (e.g., AI/Machine Learning, public policy, education, and broader technological equity) Rogers discusses how interdisciplinarity in the tech-space has shaped her career trajectory and how it can be effectively harnessed in Higher Education. Through case studies from her work, audience members explore opportunities the pros and cons of digital equity projects as well as explore ways to leverage technology in federal service.
Rogers also explores strategies for engaging modern learners while prioritizing their health and wellness in higher education settings. According to event organizers, the talk is set to be an insightful session for educators, students, and anyone passionate about shaping the future of education through innovation and compassion.
“University Day is a moment for us to reflect on the incredible journey Thomas Edison State University has undertaken since achieving university status in 2015. It’s also a time to look forward with the same momentum, as we continue to prioritize innovation and inclusivity in higher education. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Rhianna Rogers this year, whose expertise in diversity, equity, and technology will provide invaluable insights as we foster a high-tech learning environment that is both transformative and deeply inclusive,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, TESU president.
The event is co-sponsored by the joint University-New Jersey State Library AI Taskforce and the University-New Jersey State Library Diversity Equity and Inclusion Council. It takes place in Prudence Hall, at Thomas Edison State University, 111 West State Street, Trenton. The event is free Register to attend in person or via livestream using EventBrite.
For more information, visit www.tesu.edu.
Rhianna Rogers is the keynote speaker at Thomas Edison State University’s University Day celebration on Wednesday, December 4.,
