Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education News

At RIT, robots are learning to read the room—especially rooms with humans. Improved communication between robots and people is part of the human-centered philosophy that anchors much of RIT’s work in robotics.

Michael Rizzolo didn’t plan on learning American Sign Language when he came to RIT as a student, but he grew interested and eventually became an interpreter. Today, he is founder and CEO of the interpreting agency Interpretek.

Independent research projects can help cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Whether it’s late nights spent in a RIT lab or a field study in the mountains, research experiences can be a cutting-edge way for students to prepare for the future.

Be curious because what if, said RIT alumnus Bob Morrealle, who shared stories of discovery, hope, and confidence during his presentation at the Futurists Symposium, a collection of alumni and faculty offering an insider’s look into the future of technology, the arts, and design. The symposium, held April 26 in the Wegmans Theater, MAGIC Spell Studios, was the official kickoff to Imagine RIT: Creativity and Innovation Festival.

Four advertising and public relations majors represented RIT in its debut at the annual American Advertising Federation (AAF) National Student Advertising District 2 Competition held April 20 in New York City. Recognized for skillfully answering the judges’ questions and leaving no question unanswered, the team won the “Best Q&A” award and placed fourth overall, beating out legacy participants.

A highlight of this year’s Imagine RIT: Creativity and Innovation Festival takes place one day before thousands of visitors descend on campus. The annual Futurists Symposium, featuring a unique collection of the university’s alumni and faculty innovators, will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 26, in the Wegmans Theater, MAGIC Spell Studios.

RIT's Expressive Communication Center delves into the challenges of ableism in communication education, presenting their findings at a national conference in Arizona. ECC students aim to foster dialogue on accessibility and inclusive communication practices, advocating for more inclusive assessment methods in higher education.

Venita D’Angelo, a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in criminal justice, is working to reduce crime through program evaluation, data analytics, and project management services for area law enforcement, community nonprofits, and other criminal justice professionals.

Published by RIT Press, in partnership with the RIT Department of History and the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, Rochester History Vol 81, No. 2 (spring 2024) is a peer-reviewed biannual journal that explores local issues within a national and global context.

Audience members attending The Machine won’t just watch a show, they’ll be part of it. The play will give guests a mirror mask to wear and explore spaces and events among the actors in any way they choose.

RIT student Catherine Hampp is one of the stars behind the scenes of Ada and the Engine—the first play to debut in the Sklarsky Glass Box Theater in the SHED, April 4-7.