Theme: Ripple Effect

A ripple effect occurs as a progressive after shock. An initial disturbance to a system propagates to an increasingly larger portion of the system, like ripples expanding across the water when an object is dropped into it.
The ripple effect is often used colloquially to mean a multiplicative effect, unlike the domino effect which only serves one direction. In sociology, the ripple effect can be observed in how social interactions can affect the dynamics of the system, often times reorganizing the system itself into a "new normal". Information and change in behavior can be both quickly and slowly spread from individual to individual and community to community broadening its impact and causing both adaptation and rejection to the new normal.
Our event will cover a variety of topics that currently affects our local and global community from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Come surf the swell with us!

Old School Square
51 N Swinton Ave
Delray Beach, Florida, 33444
United States

Ata Sarajedini

Astrophysicist

After receiving his Ph.D. in Astronomy at Yale, he spent five years as a postdoctoral researcher and a Hubble Fellow at Kitt Peak National Observatory and San Francisco State University to later become the principal investigator of a project at Hubble. He received an NSF CAREER award, a University of Florida Research Professor award, and has served as Associate Dean at the University of Florida, and Dean of the College of Science at Florida Atlantic University

Daniel Bolojan

Director CreativeAILab

Daniel Bolojan is an Assistant Professor of AI and Computational Design at Florida Atlantic University, and a Ph.D. candidate at Die Angewandte, Vienna. His research focuses on developing deep learning strategies for architectural design, addressing shared- agency, designer creativity, and augmentation of design potency. He developed the Deep Himmelblau Neural Network as Computational Design Specialist at Coop Himmelblau.

Edward Stinson

Spady Cultural Heritage Museum Curator

A south Florida native, Edward Stinson III has worked as an artist, educator, director of publishing, and historical re-enactor for over a decade in Palm Beach County. He strongly advocates for education and community engagement by teaching through his magical and empowering story telling: African, Arabic, Mediterranean history, Delray Beach’s early settlement history, post-civil war history, while also helping promote arts & self-expression as a medium to connect the past, present and future.

Gabriela Mendez

Professor & Advisory Committee Member of Palm Beach School District

Dr. Mendez is an educator who has taught, supervised, advised, and guided students, educators, and educational leaders. As a professor and engaged member of the community, she promotes educational equity by working at NSU's Diversity and Inclusion Council, at the Hispanic Education Coalition of Palm Beach, and at the Academic Advisory Committee of the School District of Palm Beach County. Dr. Mendez believes that equitable and accesible education is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

Javar Godfrey

Community Leader and Promoter of Justice

Armed with degrees in social work and theology, he championed his cause from his days as a high school student top athlete, observing disparities in his community. He is the CEO of TAG Movement Consulting, a platform that fosters emotional well-being in educational settings. He also leads YANA, “You Are Not Alone,” a suicide prevention movement, aiming to provide support and resources to those in need.

John Renne

Professor Urban and Regional Planning

Dr. John L. Renne, AICP is the Director of the Center for Urban and Environmental Solutions (CUES) and an Associate Professor in the School of Urban and Regional Planning at Florida Atlantic University. He is also an Honorary Research Associate at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on creating sustainable, resilient & livable cities, with a focus on land development transportation infrastructure.

Meggie Soliman

Blockchain Advocate

Meggie Soliman is passionate about innovative technologies, elevating consciousness, and empowering our youth and women to stand in their power. She has worked in healthcare technology and has become a thought leader on blockchain technology and the digital transformation happening around the world. As a mother, technologist, and lifetime student she believes with all transformations a level of inner evolution and understanding must occur for creativity to flourish.

Sabrina Victoria

Social Entrepreneur

From a struggling single mom, to escaping a an abusive relationship, Sabrina’s tenacity and optimistic spirit has inspired others break through and discover their own untapped talents, strengths and immense potential. Now, a self-made entrepreneur and community advocate, Sabrina is dedicated to giving people the tools they need to RISE and human better.

Vanessa Ruck

Motorcycle Racer & Rally Driver

Vanessa is a rally driver, motorcycle racer and adventurer. After a seven year recovery from a life-changing accident Vanessa discovered motorcycles and has since competed in some of the toughest endurance races in the world. She battled brutal desert terrains in up to 125°F temperatures and became the first female to ever finish the Tunisia Desert Challenge. Not letting her chronic pain become an excuse, her resilience has seen her become an inspiration to all.

Zach Escalante

Data Scientist

Zach is a Data Scientist, analytically inclined, he explores how data informs from product experience to human behavior. Experienced in financial markets, consulting & big tech. He holds two Master’s degrees in Operations & Research from Cornell University and two Bachelor's degrees in both Mathematics and Finance from FAU. He has witnessed how data is fast tracking change across multiple industries.