Dr. Bo Yang, Professor of Computer Science at Bowie State University, whose work bridges advanced artificial intelligence research, student mentorship, and real-world impact. Appointed by Maryland Governor Wes Moore to the Workgroup on Artificial Intelligence Implementation, Dr. Yang brings expertise in big data, language models, and trustworthy AI to both public policy and RITA UARC research.

From mathematics to engineering, Dr. Mandoye Ndoye has built a career centered on impactful research and student mentorship. As a professor at Tuskegee University, he contributes to RITA’s mission through work in digital signal processing and autonomous systems.

For PhD student Doron Reid, RITA has been both a challenge and a turning point. Funded through the program, he returned to Howard University and quickly became involved in hands-on research. Reed hopes to use his journey to inspire young students to explore their creativity through STEM and research.

At Hampton University, Dr. Demetris Geddis, Assistant Dean and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, blends his engineering expertise with a deep passion for mentorship and research. He has played a key role in shaping Hampton’s contributions to RITA and sees autonomy research as an area poised for significant national impact. Geddis believes that giving students meaningful research experiences is essential to preparing the next generation of STEM leaders.

As a long-time AIAA member, Dr. David Casbeer leads AFRL’s UAV Cooperative and Intelligent Control Team, driving advancements in autonomous technologies that strengthen future Air Force missions.

Matthew Little is a senior computer science major at Delaware State University. He reflects on his early experiences at RITA, where collaboration and mentorship have already shaped his growth as a researcher. These experiences have also fueled his ambition to pursue graduate studies and future innovation.