CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD

This award recognizes the presenter whose research has significant and tangible impact. It focuses on inspiring action, fostering change, or raising awareness about a specific issue or topic, and highlights the importance of research that drives positive change.

Dr. Gulnar Rakhmetulla

Presentation: Designing for Access: Inclusive Text Input on Mobile Devices

Dr. Gulnar Rakhmetulla, a human-computer interaction researcher and Westcliff faculty member, was recognized with the Catalyst for Change Award for her impact-driven research on accessibility and inclusive design. Her work, featured in top venues such as CHI, MobileHCI and PETRA, advances equity in digital communication worldwide.

This presentation highlighted inclusive design strategies for improving text input accessibility on mobile and wearable devices. The presenter discussed nonvisual input methods, one-handed interaction, and gesture-based enhancements: all aimed at supporting users with visual, motor, or situational impairments and promoting equitable access to digital communication tools.

Watch the recording of this session below.

TRAILBLAZER AWARD

The Trailblazer Award recognizes originality, forward thinking, and novel methodologies while honoring those who pioneer new paths and challenge conventional norms. This award highlights the presenter's ability to think outside the box, push boundaries and dares to explore uncharted territory and make a lasting impact.

Dr. Shelley L. Spessard

Presentation: Cognitive Prompting with AI: A New Pedagogical Frontier

Dr. Shelley L. Spessard, Ed.D., adjunct professor at Westcliff University and founder of EduAdvocate, received the Trailblazer Award for her groundbreaking work in ethical AI and instructional design. Author of The AI Playbook: 33 Winning Plays for Teachers, Spessard continues to shape the future of learning through creative and forward-thinking research.

This presentation explored how generative AI prompting, grounded in Bloom’s Taxonomy and Depth of Knowledge, can serve as a pedagogical strategy to enhance cognitive engagement. By reframing AI as a co-designer in instruction, educators can create equitable, future-ready learning environments that deepen thinking and elevate instructional design. Watch the recording below.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AWARD

The Research Excellence Award celebrates the ability to generate meaningful insights through research. It also honors individuals who exemplify rigor and precision in their research endeavors, and highlights the presenter's commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding in their field. This awards rewards the meticulous approach to research and its impact on the broader academic community.

Tejal Rangdal

Presentation: NectAid: Reducing ER Wait Time Confusion with Real-Time Data

Tejal Rangdal, a healthcare technology innovator with experience at Adventist Health and Edwards Lifesciences, earned the Research Excellence Award for her outstanding research design and meaningful insights. With a background spanning biomedical science, entrepreneurship and business analytics, Rangdal is driving equitable, data-driven solutions in healthcare.

This presentation on NectAid analyzed real-time ER wait data to address non-emergency patient overcrowding. Using a no-code platform, the presenter discussed the development of a prototype aggregating local hospital queues. Initial testing showed improved patient decision-making and reduced wait-time uncertainty.

Do miss the recording of this presentation below!

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