Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES
DAYTONA BEACH CAMPUS
2024-2025 ANNUAL REPORT
Dear friends, alumni, colleagues and students,
The College of Arts and Sciences (COAS) is proud to be a center of interdisciplinary innovation and cutting-edge research, offering over a dozen high-quality programs and the University’s general education curriculum. Our exceptional undergraduate and graduate degrees prepare students for successful careers in industry, government and public service. At COAS, we focus on nurturing well-rounded students equipped with essential skills to communicate effectively, assess information from multiple viewpoints, navigate complexity and lead diverse teams. Our courses — whether part of a degree program or general education — help students gain a comprehensive understanding of the world, anticipate trends and embrace an innovative future. Our alumni, many of whom are distinguished leaders in their fields, often credit their success to our inspiring faculty. To continue providing students with exceptional leadership skills, we aim to increase engaged learning through involvement in hands-on projects and research, internships and study abroad. Achieving these goals requires expanding scholarships and project funding, as well as enhancing teaching and research labs. We can’t do this alone. Please join us in supporting the next generation of leaders by becoming an integral part of our COAS family and our story.
GIVING TO THE COLLEGE As a valued member of the Daytona Beach College of Arts & Sciences (COAS) community, you understand the importance of supporting our students on their path to success. At COAS, we are committed to providing career- building opportunities — whether through scholarships, research experiences, study abroad programs or internships — that empower our students to excel. Please consider making a gift to the College of Arts & Sciences Fund for Excellence. Your support will directly impact our students, helping them
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Dean’s Message
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Department/Program Highlights
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NASA Grant
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Twelve Cadets
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Lightning in a Bottle
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Concorde Documentary
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Student Spotlights
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Alumni Spotlights
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By the Numbers
grow into leaders in their fields. Together, we can shape the future. Thank you for your generosity!
Peter M. Hoffmann, Ph.D. Dean, College of Arts & Sciences
Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University College of Arts & Sciences 1 Aerospace Boulevard | Daytona Beach, Florida 32114
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@embry-riddle-daytona-beach-college-of-arts-sciences
daytonabeach@erau.edu daytonabeach.erau.edu/college-arts-sciences
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2023 - 2024
COAS DEAN’S AWARDS
Award for Outstanding Publication Presented to an individual who has contributed substantially to publications, with a preference for
Award for Graduate Student Mentorship
Presented to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to the excellence and impact of master’s and Ph.D. mentoring. Preference is given to mentors who engage with more than one student, involving them in training, hands-on learning and similar activities.
The Dean’s Awards celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our faculty who have shown exceptional dedication to their students, innovative thinking and a commitment to making a positive impact on the College of Arts & Sciences (COAS).
those who have authored books or contributed book chapters with special consideration given to the reputation and caliber of the publishing press. WINNER: Elizabeth Lazzara, Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology Department Award for Research/ Scholarship Excellence Awarded to an individual who has dedicated themself to the excellence and impact of research/scholarship, factoring in such items as grant applications, grant awards, invited talks and publications. While the funding amount is a consideration, it is not the sole criterion for determining the awardee.
WINNER: Yongxin Liu, Mathematics Department
Award for Faculty Mentorship
Nomination narrative focused on excellence and impact of mentoring that benefitted COAS faculty, privileging nominees who work closely with one or more individual faculty and enact innovative and effective mentoring activities. WINNER: Jessica McKee, Humanities and Communication Department
WINNER: Sirani Perera, Mathematics Department
Award for Undergraduate Student Mentorship Presented to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to the excellence and impact of undergraduate mentoring, particularly benefiting COAS students. Preference is given to mentors who engage with more than one student, involving them in training, hands-on learning and similar activities.
Dean’s Award for Leadership and Innovation Presented to an individual who dedicates themself to leadership achievements and/or innovations that contribute positively to the department/unit, college, campus and university. Emphasis is placed on endeavors that lead to increased visibility for both the department and the broader collegiate community. WINNERS: Cassandra Branham, Humanities and Communication Department Dan Cutrer, Security Studies and International Affairs Department
Award for Teaching Excellence Awarded to an individual showcasing outstanding excellence and innovation in teaching, specifically focusing on methods that actively engage students in the learning process. Awardees do so through the creation of educational materials or textbooks, active participation in Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence workshops and short courses, peer observations, course materials reviews and a comprehensive summary of student end-of-course evaluation data and comments.
For more on our faculty’s amazing accomplishments, follow us on LinkedIn linkedin.com/ showcase/91190858
WINNERS: Yanir Maidenberg , Physical Science Department Tess St. John , Mathematics Department
WINNERS: Hugo Castillo, Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology Department Joanne Detore, Humanities and Communication Department
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Currently completing her qualifying exam to transition from being a Ph.D. student to a Ph.D. candidate, Abraham has faced challenges on her academic journey. During her senior year at Florida Institute of Technology, she applied to several graduate schools and was rejected or wait-listed by all of them. “I was incredibly dejected to not hear the response I was hoping for,” Abraham said. “But I didn’t let it hold me back. I applied for some jobs doing outreach in astronomy since that is one of my biggest passions, and I submitted a second round of applications.” This time, she received graduate school acceptances and extended job offers. Having done research as an undergraduate with Dr. Saida Caballero-Nieves, Abraham decided to follow her to graduate school at Embry‑Riddle in August 2022. Caballero-Nieves is an assistant professor in the Department of Physical Sciences. “Even though at that point I had been accepted into other schools, I knew it was best for me to work with someone whose research I was passionate about and who I knew would have my back and want the best for me,” Abraham said. “When Professor Caballero-Nieves started teaching at Embry‑Riddle, I decided to apply here so I could continue working with her.”
For her Ph.D. project, Abraham will be using exoplanet research tools to look for companion stars revolving around massive stars that are more than eight times the mass of the Sun. Abraham’s specific focus is “an area of research the astronomy community hasn’t been able to study yet,” she said. Apart from her research, Abraham continues to do outreach and teaches. “Many of our undergrads go to her for help with their classes,” Caballero-Nieves said. Abraham said she has always wanted to share her love of astronomy and science. “Subjects like science, math and astronomy can feel out of reach for a lot of people. I want to share these subjects in a way that’s accessible to everyone,” she said. “Without the amazing friends and mentors I’ve gained throughout the years, I wouldn’t have been able to come this far. I want to give back and be that mentor for someone else to help them along their journey.” “Erin is exactly the kind of student we love to have here at Embry-Riddle,” said Oswalt, “one who is focused on their career path, determined to succeed and excited to share what they learn with others.”
Embry‑Riddle Student Researcher Earns NASA FINESST Grant to Study the Stars ORIGINALLY WRITTEN BY MICHAELA JARVIS WITH EMBRY‑RIDDLE’S NEWS TEAM
Engineering Physics graduate student Erin Abraham has recently been awarded a prestigious NASA Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology (FINESST) grant to explore massive binary stars, the study of which can yield valuable insights into the evolution of the cosmos.
Sciences, explaining that the acceptance rate for applicants is only about 10 percent and project proposals need to align with NASA’s scientific goals. “We already knew she had the right stuff!” When Abraham was notified of her award, she said she was “in a state of shock.” She knew the grant was competitive, so she kept her expectations in check. She said she was “elated when my proposal was selected.”
The grant provides Abraham with $50,000 annually for three years to cover her tuition. Additionally, grant funds provide her with a stipend, enabling her to present at scientific conferences and supporting the publication of her peer- reviewed journals. “The FINESST graduate fellowship program is highly competitive, and it’s great to see that the NASA reviewers recognized Erin’s outstanding potential,” said Dr. Terry Oswalt, associate dean for research in the College of Arts and
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WHAT IS LIGHTNING?
Embry‑Riddle Air Force ROTC Cadets Climb Onboard Air Force’s Largest Plane ORIGINALLY WRITTEN BY SETH ROBBINS WITH EMBRY‑RIDDLE’S NEWS TEAM
Lightning in a Bottle: Embry‑Riddle Team Seeks the Origins of Its Spark. ORIGINALLY WRITTEN BY SETH ROBBINS WITH EMBRY‑RIDDLE’S NEWS TEAM
Lightning (noun) light-ning A giant spark of electricity in the atmosphere between clouds, the air or the ground. In the early stages of development, air acts as an insulator between the positive and negative charges in the cloud and between the cloud and the ground.
For dozens of Air Force ROTC cadets at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, a tour of a C-5M Super Galaxy — which can carry two M1 Abrams tanks — inspired awe and provided insights into the inner workings of the Air Force’s largest plane.
Though Benjamin Franklin invented the lightning rod nearly 300 years ago, lightning remains one of nature’s most powerful yet least understood phenomena.
The tours of the C-5M Super Galaxy, parked at Sheltair at Daytona Beach International Airport, came courtesy of Maj. David Cryder, assistant director of operations for the 9th Airlift Squadron and a 2014 graduate of Embry‑Riddle. Cryder also served as a cadet with Detachment 157 at the Daytona Beach Campus, the same unit as the cadets who eagerly scaled the C-5M Super Galaxy, which stands 65 feet tall, equivalent to a building of more than six stories.
Lt. Austin Wood, who was among the 9th Airlift Squadron team showing the plane’s flight operations, explained that the C-5M Super Galaxy requires a crew of at least nine for an overseas mission, including two flight engineers, three pilots, two loadmasters and two crew chiefs. “It’s a very crew-intensive plane,” he said. “So we try to emphasize that moving forward, you’re going to need to be a team player to succeed.” For Cryder, it’s not the plane’s size that he likes to tout but the crew and their mission, which he said have made his time with the C-5M Super Galaxy so rewarding. “We’ll go through some of our locations moving our cargo, and the crew becomes like your family,” he said. By having the cadets tour the plane and speak to its crew members, Cryder also wanted to give them a glimpse of what their futures hold once they become commissioned officers. “They are now in charge of other people, and you are expected to rise to the occasion,” he said. That future is near for Bradley Rhoads, cadet wing commander for Detachment 157, who will graduate in December of this year with a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering.
Novel research by Dr. Jeremy A. Riousset and his team could reveal important clues about how lightning is formed. The research has implications for the safety of power systems, aircraft, rocket launches and even human missions to Mars. “The very first question we are trying to answer is, ‘How does lightning start?’” said Dr. Riousset, an associate professor of Engineering Physics. This also happens to be one of the most fundamental unanswered questions in atmospheric sciences. Lightning is a natural discharge of electricity caused by positive and negative imbalances of electric charges — usually within clouds or between clouds and the ground. “It’s high voltage, it’s a high current, it’s super bright and it’s super hot,” said Engineering Physics master’s student Jared Nelson, a member of Riousset’s research team. However, prior to this hot energetic event occurs “a glow,” a lower- voltage discharge that is different from a lightning bolt visible from the ground. This glow was once known to sailors as St. Elmo’s fire: a luminous blue or violet glow seen on the tops of ships’ masts when storm clouds were overhead. The team’s experiments could have safety implications on Earth and beyond.
HOW’S IT MADE? Thunderstorms have bits of ice and water that bump into each other, creating a buildup of electric charge.
It’s a pretty surreal moment to be bringing this plane to where it all started and to show the next generation of cadets what their life could look like if they stay in the books and keep working hard. Maj. David Cryder | Assistant Director of Operations for the 9th Airlift Squadron
CHARGE SEPARATION Some parts of the cloud become positively charged, and other parts become negatively charged.
Cryder’s aviation journey did not begin with the idea that he “was going to fly the world’s largest cargo aircraft,” he said. He graduated with a B.S. in Applied Meteorology and then trained as a pilot after he was commissioned as a lieutenant. “As I’ve looked back over the last ten years, I am incredibly thankful that I ended up in this airplane, which was part of my motivation of bringing the asset here,” he said. “I want the cadets to know that there’s more to being an Air Force pilot than necessarily being a fighter pilot or a bomber pilot. There are a litany of options available to them.” Cadets climbed to the upper-level flight deck, where they sat at the plane’s controls. They also toured the massive cargo bay and an upper level that contains the crew’s rest area.
THE SPARK When the charges become too strong, they jump across the air as a massive electrical current, which we see as lightning.
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Jillian Preite is a senior studying Communication and Broadcast Meteorology with the goal of becoming a Broadcast Meteorologist after graduation. Growing up in South Florida, she developed a passion for weather at a young age, ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Although interviews were the driving force behind our content, one interviewee stood out: John Tye. Not only did Tye’s incredible story stick with me and my classmates, but the experience of the interview was also unlike any others I have done. As a class, we gathered in the classroom to conduct Tye’s interview. Led by my classmate, Mallory Kinahan, the interview with the pilot gave us first-person experience with the Concorde that we would not be able to find anywhere else. Tye had a way with words. Sharing his one-of-a-kind stories about the Concorde, he simultaneously inspired and motivated everyone in the room. After these interviews were conducted, I felt like a piece of content was missing that would paint the perfect picture of the legacy of the aircraft. I came into the AAC class with a strong video editing background, so I decided to use my skills to produce a short documentary to round out our content. I presented the idea to my professor, Steven Master, and we agreed this would be a perfect addition. I knew going into this project that it was no small feat. I spent countless hours gathering the footage that I would use throughout the video, finding background music and — most importantly — painting the perfect storyline. I used the interviews to guide me through the story which helped to produce an outline for my documentary: introduce the Concorde and how it came to be; why it was such an important milestone in the aviation industry; the crash in Paris, France; and lastly, the fall of the Concorde. As I started putting the pieces of the documentary together, I wanted to make sure the tragedy of the crash did not overwhelm the many accomplishments of the Concorde. Although the anniversary of the crash is the reason the video was produced, I made sure to focus more on the legacy of the aircraft and its long- lasting impacts. In the end, I was able to produce a short, 12-minute documentary on the rise and fall of the iconic aircraft. It is one of my proudest pieces of work, and I look forward to seeing where I can take it.
often tracking storms and hurricanes. This early interest evolved into a dedication to using her skills and passion to help the community. Throughout her college career, Jillian has made a significant impact on campus. She currently serves as the Chief Meteorologist for The Avion, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s news broadcast. She is also actively involved in various organizations, serving as the Ambassador for the Communication Club and a member of the COAS Student Council. Beyond extracurricular involvement, Jillian is also an accomplished journalist. Last semester, her article featuring an Embry-Riddle alumnus was published in Aero Crew News, inspiring the launch of Moonlight — a new column highlighting pilots with unique side businesses outside of aviation.
Honoring the Concorde: Student-Produced Documentary Explores Legacy of the Iconic Supersonic Airliner STORY WRITTEN BY JILLIAN PREITE
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This coming July will mark the 25th anniversary of the crash of the first supersonic airliner and one of the most iconic airplanes in history, the Concorde.
We interviewed three sources that ended up helping tremendously throughout the project. The interviews included an Associate Professor of Aerospace and Occupational Safety at Embry-Riddle, Anthony Brickhouse, former Concorde pilot, John Tye and a passenger who flew on the Concorde multiple times, Jeffrey Tucker.
In anticipation of this anniversary, my classmates and I in our Aviation and Aerospace Communication (AAC) class decided to produce an array of content about the aircraft’s remarkable journey and its impact on the aviation industry. As we collected multiple pieces of information, we decided to reach out to some individuals that had firsthand experience with the Concorde — whether on the aircraft itself or by conducting research.
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High-Tech. High-Impact. Explore the world around you — the Embry-Riddle way.
Interning in the MicaPlex Her determination led to working on the plant-microbial interactions project and eventually landed her the Acreage Farms internship. The company, located in the MicaPlex research park at Embry‑Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus, focuses on sustainable agriculture through vertical farming. “I’m basically a farmer,” Emma explains. “I go through all the manual processes of what it would be like without having automated technology in place to support the vertical farm.” Hydroponic farming, as Emma describes, brings not only future applications for Mars and the Moon but also immediate benefits here on Earth. “Hydroponic vertical farming is a lot more water efficient,” she notes. “You’re reusing the water supply as it travels back to the reservoir. It’s about having consistent water flow even when your environment doesn’t see rain for a month.” This research highlights hydroponics’ potential to address climate challenges and improve resource efficiency, benefiting regions facing water scarcity.
Her passion for sustainable agriculture was sparked by a high school project involving composting, where she developed a deep appreciation for the natural processes that sustain life. “That’s really where it started for me,” she says, “I wanted to work beyond the conventional laboratory.” She also credits her green thumb to her mother, a dedicated gardener who instilled a love of nature and an understanding of how to nurture life. Finding Balance Balancing her commitments is no small feat. Emma juggles her research work in the Space Microbiology Lab with her internship at Acreage Farms and responsibilities as a Resident Advisor. These roles require a demanding schedule and intense time management, yet Emma embraces the challenge. Emma’s willingness to learn and get involved has been key to her success. Reflecting on how she first approached Dr. Hugo Castillo, Principal Investigator of the Space Microbiology Lab, she says, “I told him, I have no experience to offer, but I’m willing to clean equipment, organize anything that you guys need ... as I gain experience.”
Emma Costa Embry-Riddle Student Is a Farmer in the Lab ORIGINALLY WRITTEN BY KIM SHEETER WITH EMBRY‑RIDDLE’S NEWS TEAM
This hands-on, scientific approach is part of Emma’s journey as an Aerospace Physiology major at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University. Originally from Miami, Emma arrived at Embry‑Riddle with plans to study Aerospace Engineering, inspired by alumni from her high school who pursued flight and engineering. “In orientation, they introduced engineering as something very computer-focused,” she recalls. “I wanted to be hands-on, and thankfully I found Aerospace Physiology.” This major offered the practical experience she craved, with labs incorporated into virtually every class. Emma Costa (’26) is redefining how we approach agriculture, both on our planet and beyond. “Imagine creating your own Earth,” she says, describing her internship at start-up Acreage Farms. “You get to change the weather, the water supply and the entire environment to grow crops. It’s like being Mother Nature, adjusting conditions to meet your goals.”
I’m basically a farmer. I go through all the manual processes of what it would be like without having automated technology in place
to support the vertical farm. Emma Costa (’26) | Aerospace Physiology
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Inspired by Family Throughout her journey, Mallory’s greatest inspirations have been her parents. Their unwavering support and belief in hard work have shaped her outlook on life. Despite living in New York, they try to attend her games in Florida, a testament to their dedication and love. “They have always been a shoulder to lean on and have led me in the right direction,” she says. As she prepares to graduate in May, Mallory looks forward to the next chapter of her journey, equipped with the skills, discipline and knowledge she has honed as a student-athlete at Embry-Riddle. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork and passion — values that define the Embry-Riddle community.
Mallory Kinahan Balancing Academics and Athletics at Embry-Riddle WRITTEN BY KATI CALLAHAN
At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, student-athletes embody dedication, resilience and excellence both on and off the field.
A Passion for Communication Mallory’s love for storytelling and media shaped her decision to pursue a degree in Communication. Inspired by sports broadcasters and television anchors who deliver compelling stories, she dreams of connecting meaningfully with audiences. Her experiences as a student-athlete have strengthened her ability to communicate effectively, work under pressure and adapt to challenges — skills that will serve her well in her future career.
Communication major Mallory Kinahan exemplifies these qualities as a standout member of the Eagles softball team. As a pitcher and outfielder, Mallory has also taken on leadership responsibilities as a team captain. Memorable Moments on the Field One moment stands out among her many experiences as a student-athlete: competing in the NCAA Division II Tournament at Regionals with her teammates. The opportunity to represent Embry-Riddle on a national stage was the culmination of a season’s worth of hard work and camaraderie. “It was cool to see all the effort we put in and the bonds we built throughout the season get recognized nationally,” she recalls.
“Mallory is the perfect example of why we have long embraced welcoming student-athletes into the Bachelor of Science in Communication program. To play college sports on any level requires an immense amount of hard work, passion and perseverance. From day one, Mallory has exhibited all of those same qualities in the classroom — and those qualities are contagious. Just as she’s a leader on the softball field, she’s gained the respect and admiration of her classmates through the pride she takes in her work, her impressive skills and her joyful approach to learning. We feel extremely fortunate to have had Mallory as a student, and her future employer will be equally fortunate because she has such a bright future ahead,” said Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for B.S. in Communication, Steven Master. To play college sports on any level requires an immense amount of hard work, passion and perseverance. From day one, Mallory has exhibited all of those same qualities in the classroom — and those qualities are contagious. Steven Master | Associate Professor of Humanities and Communication
Mallory Kinahan (’25) Communication
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provided me with incredible opportunities — both my research role at LLNL and my career in the Air Force stem from it.” Lessons in Leadership and Perseverance Reflecting on his time at Embry-Riddle, Idema credits the passion of his professors for making complex subjects come alive. “Professors like Dr. Hughes in Classical Mechanics or Col. Dayton in ROTC weren’t just teaching — they were sharing their love for their fields,” he recalls. “Those moments turned daunting coursework into something inspiring.” Idema’s biggest challenge was workload balance. With rigorous coursework, ROTC commitments, club activities, fitness training and personal time, Idema learned the importance of building strong habits early. “It’s a tough job, but that makes it all the more rewarding. Staying proficient requires both humility — admitting mistakes and learning from them — and perseverance — continuing to fly and improve despite setbacks.” As for what’s next? Idema has one clear goal: “Become a full- fledged Air Force pilot!”
Zac Idema B.S. IN ENGINEERING PHYSICS
Emily Diegel B.S. IN COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICS From Computational Mathematics to National Security: A Journey of Research and Discovery Emily Diegel (’24) has always had a passion for problem-solving. Now, as a Ph.D. student in Mathematics at Texas A&M University and a Data Scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), she’s using that interest to tackle real-world challenges in national security. A Path Defined by Mentorship and Discovery Diegel’s journey to mathematics wasn’t linear. Initially drawn to Aerospace Engineering, she realized after a year that her true passion lay in Computational Mathematics and Data Science. That’s when she met Dr. Mihhail Berezovski, associate professor of Mathematics, who would become a pivotal mentor in her career. “Dr. Berezovski gave me real-world experience with industry and showed me the field where math intersects with national security,” she says. “Without his guidance, I would not be where I am today.” Through Berezovski’s mentorship, Diegel began conducting research at the Nevada National Security Site, where she learned how to present research, write scientific reports and network in her field. These experiences led her to publish her research, present at international conferences — including in Saudi Arabia — and gain hands-on industry experience, all while still an undergraduate student. From Embry-Riddle to a Career in Data Science After completing her undergraduate degree, Diegel landed an internship at the PNNL — one of the nation’s leading research institutions focused on science and technology advancements. “Embry-Riddle prepared me for both industry and research,” she explains. “Through the Embry-Riddle Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, I learned how to conduct research, communicate my findings and stand out in the job market.” Now, as a full-time Ph.D. student, she balances coursework in Applied Mathematics and Machine Learning while continuing her role at PNNL. “A typical day as a Ph.D. student involves a lot of studying and coursework. Most first-year students don’t dive into research right away, but I’ve been fortunate to keep my industry experience going at the same time.”
From cutting-edge plasma physics research to soaring through the skies as a U.S. Air Force student pilot, Zac Idema (’24) exemplifies the perseverance and passion that defines Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumni. His journey showcases how Embry-Riddle’s dynamic academic environment and deep-rooted aviation culture helped shape his career. Pushing the Boundaries of Science Before embarking on his military aviation career, Idema spent a summer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) conducting theoretical research on electron-emitting surfaces interacting with plasma fields. His work, which may soon be published in Physical Review Letters, ranged from deriving complex equations to coding models of plasma behavior. “Some days were spent deep in theoretical discussions, challenging our own ideas, and refining our approach,” Idema recalls. “Being surrounded by some of the brightest minds in science was an incredible experience.” Taking Flight with the U.S. Air Force After commissioning in the US Air Forces as a First Lieutenant, Idema transitioned into a new role — this time in the cockpit. Now a student pilot in the U.S. Air Force, he’s following a structured training regimen, not unlike the experience of many freshman and sophomore Embry-Riddle aviation students. “I didn’t fly at Embry-Riddle, but I had many friends who did,” he says. “Now, my days consist of studying flight principles and getting hands-on experience — sometimes flying twice a day. The only difference? I get to wear a flight suit while doing it.” Finding Purpose at Embry-Riddle For Idema, choosing Embry-Riddle was about more than just academics — it was about a shared passion for aviation. “There’s no other university that brings people together around aviation like Embry-Riddle,” he says. “Everything I studied in Engineering Physics connected back to flight or spaceflight, giving my education a real sense of purpose.” Beyond the classroom, the Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) program played a pivotal role in shaping his career. “Embry-Riddle’s detachment is one of the largest in the country, yet the camaraderie is unparalleled. AFROTC
The Reward of Research and Impactful Work One of the most exciting moments in Diegel’s career so far was receiving acceptance letters to all three of her top-choice graduate programs. “I spent months on applications, doing everything I could to stand out,” she recalls. “When I got my first acceptance ... I was over the moon. That was the moment I realized that everything I had done at Embry-Riddle was worth it.” Beyond academia, Diegel finds immense fulfillment in her work at PNNL. “At the lab, I get to work on real-world problems that have a huge impact on the United States. I love the work I do in national security because it directly affects the people around me,” she says. What’s Next? As she progresses through her Ph.D. program, Diegel is focused on preparing for her qualifying exams this summer. Looking further ahead, she’s excited to continue research in applied mathematics and continue pushing the boundaries of data science in national security.
With his relentless drive and passion for aviation, there’s no doubt he’ll achieve it.
Zac Idema (’24) Engineering Physics
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Additionally, the friendships he formed with colleagues like Beket Tulegenov and Andréa Hughes were instrumental in his development. The proximity of Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus to Cape Canaveral also offered him the unique experience of witnessing space launches firsthand. Challenges and Growth Balancing between research and teaching during his Ph.D. was one of the biggest challenges Mergen faced. However, this experience taught him valuable time management skills and the ability to efficiently multitask. He emphasizes that his time at Embry-Riddle not only equipped him with technical expertise but also instilled confidence, paving the way for his career in academia and space physics.
Nicolas Gachancipa B.S. IN COMPUTATIONAL MATHMEMATCIS
Mergen Alimaganbetov PH.D. ENGINEERING PHYSICS Exploring the Frontiers of Space Physics: From Embry-Riddle to Princeton
B.S. IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
From Embry-Riddle to Google AI: A Journey of Innovation and Impact
Mergen Alimaganbetov (’21), has dedicated his career to advancing our understanding of space physics. Today, he works as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Princeton University’s Space Physics Lab, contributing to the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP), a NASA mission set to launch at the end of this year. A Career in Space Physics and Instrumentation At Princeton, Mergen is part of a team working on the Solar Wind and Pickup Ions (SWAPI) instrument, from its development in the cleanroom to calibration. His laboratory features advanced calibration facilities, including High Voltage Ion Source and Ultra High Vacuum chambers, ensuring precision in instrument testing. A typical day for Mergen includes research on data from Nasa’s Interstellar Boundary Explorer, the IMAP predecessor, which has been mapping Energetic Neutral Atoms in the outer heliosphere since 2009. His work helps uncover how the heliosphere reacts to solar cycles, revealing its dynamic, “breathing” nature over time. Beyond his research, Mergen also engages with students enrolled in Space Physics courses, providing hands-on experience in space instrument design and testing. His passion for teaching, cultivated at Embry-Riddle, continues to be an integral part of his professional journey. The Embry-Riddle Experience
Nicolas Gachancipa’s (’21) curiosity for technology and space began in Bogotá, Colombia, where he was born and raised. Introduced to Embry-Riddle by a friend, he was drawn to the university’s renowned engineering programs and strong reputation in aviation and technology. Today, he is part of Google’s AI Research team, specializing in AI development for Google hardware, particularly Pixel phones. A Career in AI and Machine Learning At Google, Nicolas focuses on developing and deploying machine learning models in hardware devices. His daily work involves coding, researching and analyzing extensive datasets to improve AI performance. Collaboration is key in his role, as he works with teams from New York, California and Taiwan, including Google Silicon and DeepMind. Beyond his technical contributions, he is actively involved in HOLA — an employee resource group for Hispanics at Google — where he helps organize social, volunteer and career development events. The Embry-Riddle Experience Reflecting on his time at Embry-Riddle, Nicolas credits the university for equipping him with the technical skills and strong work ethic that have propelled his career. The rigorous academic environment helped him develop perseverance and discipline, qualities that have proven invaluable in his field. His research experience played a significant role in shaping his professional path. During his sophomore year, he joined Associate Professor Dr. Kshitija Deshpande’s physics team,
where he enhanced his coding skills by developing machine learning algorithms for atmospheric physics data analysis. He later worked on a computational mathematics capstone project with Associate Professor of Data Science Dr. Mihhail Berezovski and researchers from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to create a computational model for detecting radioactive sources in urban environments. These early research experiences fueled his passion for AI and data science, setting the foundation for his future work at Google. A Career at the Forefront of AI During his career, Nicolas has contributed to several impactful projects. During his time at Airbus, he worked on a CAD program for aircraft design, an experience that took him to England for a year. At Google, he initially focused on improving communication products like Google Meet and Voice, working on features such as security enhancements and spam detection. Today, he is thrilled to be part of a team that is shaping the future of AI and its applications in consumer technology. “The fast advancements in artificial intelligence are reshaping our society and how we interact with the digital world,” Nicolas shares. “It’s an exciting time to be in this field, but it also requires continuous learning and adaptability.” Advice for Future Engineers and Tech Enthusiasts Nicolas encourages current Embry-Riddle students to embrace challenges. “It’s the best way to grow, both personally and professionally. Take advantage of the great resources and faculty and always be open to learning new things.” Looking ahead, Nicolas is eager to continue contributing to AI research at Google while completing his master’s degree. With a commitment to lifelong learning and innovation, Nicolas is set to make an even greater impact in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Mergen Alimaganbetov (’21) Engineering Physics
Mergen’s fascination with space instrumentation began in high school, where he admired the
precision required to design and build spacecraft. Embry-Riddle provided the
perfect environment to nurture his interest, exposing him to data
analysis and research opportunities that laid the foundation for his Ph.D. work on Sun-Earth solar wind dynamics. He credits much of his academic growth to the mentorship of Professor Anatoly V. Streltsov, whose guidance shaped his research skills.
18 | Daytona Beach College of Arts & Sciences
2024 - 2025 Annual Report | 19
Claudia Morello B.S. IN ASTRONOMY & ASTROPHYSICS
Claudia Morello’s (’18) journey to becoming a computational physicist was anything but conventional. Initially setting her sights on a culinary career, she attended cooking school before realizing that the high-stress environment of a professional kitchen was not for her. A lifelong curiosity for math, physics and outer space inspired her to pivot toward astrophysics. That decision ultimately led her to Embry-Riddle, where she found a community of like-minded individuals and an academic environment that set the foundation for her future success. A Career in Computational Physics Today, Claudia works as a computational physicist for a defense contractor, leveraging her expertise in light scattering and optics to develop models of complex systems. Her role involves coding and building simulations in Python, MATLAB and C++, as well as engaging in research discussions and staying current with the latest technological advancements. It is a field that challenges her analytical abilities while allowing her to push the boundaries of what is known. The Road to a Ph.D. Encouraged by her mentors, including Associate Professor Dr. Muhammad Farooq and Assistant Professor Dr. Leroy Long from Embry-Riddle, she pursued further education and research. “Dr. Farooq and Dr. Long both went above and beyond helping me get into grad school, from writing my reference letters to giving me advice about what to expect from the GRE and grad school culture” she said. Her doctoral work focused on modeling how light scatters off ice particles from cryovolcanoes on Saturn’s moon,
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Enceladus, as observed by the Cassini satellite. She uncovered a vast amount of unprocessed data from the mission, leading to the first published analysis of the degree of polarization of Enceladus’ surface. Her groundbreaking work provided valuable insights into the composition of the particles there and solidified her passion for being at the forefront of discovery. A Bright Future Beyond her professional achievements, Claudia is passionate about outreach efforts, particularly those aimed at supporting women in STEM. She actively contributes to Reinvented Magazine, founded by another Embry-Riddle alumna, to inspire and mentor young girls pursuing science and engineering careers. Witnessing the impact of her mentorship fuels her commitment to giving back to the STEM community. Looking ahead, Claudia sees both challenges and opportunities in her field. She notes the growing role of AI in physics and the potential risks of automating problem- solving to the point of replacing human expertise. However, she is excited about the advancements in quantum computing and cryogenics, which are opening new frontiers in experimental physics. Advice for Future Scientists For students aspiring to follow a similar path, Claudia emphasizes the importance of both technical and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in high-performance computing and strong physics intuition are crucial, but so is the ability to communicate effectively to non-scientific audiences. She also shares valuable advice: embrace failure as a learning tool, recognize that even experts were once beginners and understand that networking is not just about professional connections but about building relationships that can lead to unexpected opportunities.
COURSE ENROLLMENTS:
Fastest growing majors in last 5 years: s M.S. Data Science (700% – started in 2019) s B.S. Computational Math (60%) s B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics (57%) s B.S. Communication (55%) s B.S. Aerospace Physiology (51%) s M.S. Engineering Physics and MS Human Factors (both 50%) 1,072 Fall 2024 Student Enrollments in COAS degree programs. (11% increase from fall 2019)
On average, every Embry-Riddle student takes more than two courses in COAS every semester. 17,093
19,991 Students in COAS courses in fall 2024 (17% increase)
Students in COAS courses in fall 2019
Largest increases: (fall 2019 – fall 2024) s Global Conflict Studies (257%) s Air Force Aerospace Studies (112%) s Chemistry (107%) s Human Factors and Systems (48%) s Cybersecurity (35%)
(fall 2019 – fall 2024)
RESEARCH
On average, a COAS faculty member mentors two students in research; publishes 2.5 papers, book chapters or books; and has one active grant and submits another proposal every year. 100 Funded research grants. 204 % Five-year increase (FY24 vs. FY19)
$ 42 M Total value of more than 100 funded research grants.
20 | Daytona Beach College of Arts & Sciences
2024 - 2025 Annual Report | 21
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