Class Notes

Name: Ivan Jacobs

Class Year(s): 2023

Note: Ivan Jacobs MS ’23 (GCCIS) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence at the University of Luxembourg, delving deeper into the fascinating realm of AI research. Prior to his master’s, Ivan had the privilege of contributing to the field of artificial intelligence as an AI expert at the European Commission. Post-graduation, he embarked on a new chapter as the Vice President and head of Artificial Intelligence Capability Development – Cyber at ST Engineering Singapore. In this role, he is honored to lead the charge in building and enhancing the capabilities of artificial intelligence for cybersecurity, aligning with the company’s growth and strategic objectives. Ivan writes: My responsibilities encompass providing technical guidance to business units and steering AI-related product roadmaps to meet specific business needs and demands. Additionally, I play a pivotal role in mentoring, training, and guiding team members while spearheading research and development initiatives in AI for cybersecurity. Overseeing the implementation of AI platforms and related processes, I advise on technology stacks and roadmap strategies for the development, testing, and deployment of AI models for cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. I am grateful for the solid foundation and support I received during my time at RIT, which undoubtedly paved the way for my continued success in the dynamic field of artificial intelligence. I am eager to stay connected with fellow alumni, share experiences, and contribute to the collective growth of our alma mater.

Submitted on: February 19, 2024

Name: Amelia Hamilton

Class Year(s): 2020

Note: Amelia Hamilton ’20 (CAD), MS ’25 (NTID) got married on October 14, 2023 in Lyons, New York, and it was a joy seeing RIT/NTID alumni from the 1970s to recent years coming together to celebrate their love!

Submitted on: February 16, 2024

Name: Kenneth Kuzia

Class Year(s): 1980

Note: Ken Kuzia ’80 (CCE) has been retired for 20+ years but is still active in amateur astronomy, genealogy, genetic ancestry, photography and digital artistry, authoring, editing, and illustration for his friends’ books. He is working on his third book and maintains a website & gallery of recent artwork. (Just Google "Ken Kuzia" and select "The Art Of Ken Kuzia"). Ken lives with his wife in Victor, NY.

Submitted on: February 10, 2024

Name: Jaclyn Pytlarz

Class Year(s): 2014

Note: Jaclyn Pytlarz ’14 (CIAS) and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) group was recognized with a 2023 Engineering, Science and Technology Emmy Award for the “standardization of high dynamic range television.”

Submitted on: February 2, 2024

Name: Mariah Texidor

Class Year(s): 2015

Note: Mariah Texidor ’15 (CIAS) recently started a new position as Head of Circulation and Adult Services at Wallington Public Library. Mariah also serves as faculty at the International Center of Photography.

Submitted on: January 29, 2024

Name: Megan Lessard

Class Year(s): 2004

Note: Megan Lessard ’04 (CIAS) was recently promoted to Head of Digital Projects & Metadata (DP&M) at Providence College’s Phillips Memorial Library. DP&M digitizes, publishes, and promotes, Providence College-created scholarship where possible; partners with faculty and local researchers on digital scholarship projects (many open educational resources/OERs); maintains the media technology collection; assists with Library website maintenance and development; and provides metadata for Library created digital collections. DP&M also provides media production and literacy instruction to support students and faculty with media assignments and projects, such as documentaries, podcasts, and websites.

Submitted on: January 29, 2024

Name: Jeremy Sniatecki

Class Year(s): 1995

Note: Jeremy Sniatecki ’95 (CIAS) was chosen to design and fully illustrate several licensed retro style metal lunchboxes for Toynk.com, including Rocky IV, Svengoolie and Killer Klowns from outer Space.

Submitted on: January 22, 2024

Name: Kaitlin Law

Class Year(s): 2019 2020

Note: Nicolas Law ’19 (KGCOE) and Kaitlin (Levine) Law ’20 (NTID) got married on September 21 on Long Island surrounded by their RIT family! They met at RIT in 2017, and Nicolas graduated in 2019 from the Electrical Engineering program, and Kaitlin graduated in 2020 from the ASLIE program.

Submitted on: January 19, 2024

Name: Alvis Upitis

Class Year(s): 1968

Note: Alvis Upitis ’68 (GAP) recently had the cover and lead story in The Quarterly Journal of Leica Society International Vol. 56, Issue 3. “One Camera One Lens”. It illustrates The Golden Era of American Racing. (Cover attached) as well as bio picture.

Submitted on: December 19, 2023

Name: Nathan Holland

Class Year(s): 2007

Note: Nathan Holland ’07 (KGCOE) earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Old Dominion University, marking a significant milestone in his career. Amongst those who joined him for his December graduation were fellow RIT alums: his wife, April Holland ’06 (BS in Chemistry), Aisosa Ayela-Uwangue ’07 (BS/MS in Electrical Engineering), and Tia White ’05 (BS in Manufacturing Engineering Technology). These enduring friendships undoubtedly played a crucial role in this accomplishment. Nathan continues to serve as a Lecturer at ODU in the Engineering Fundamentals Division, a position he began in the summer, which focuses on foundational knowledge and success of incoming engineering students.

Submitted on: December 18, 2023