{"689267":{"#nid":"689267","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Institute for People and Technology Announces Five Faculty Promotions","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people\u2011centered innovation across disciplines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKala Jordan\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EResearch Scientist II\u003C\/em\u003E. With a background spanning biology, health informatics, and STEM education, Jordan brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work. She plays a key role in AI\u2011CARING, leading studies that support the development of personalized collaborative AI systems designed to improve quality of life for older adults.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENoah Posner\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003ESenior Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. As manager of the Interactive Product Design Lab, Posner focuses on interactive experiences grounded in physical interaction. His research spans CAD\u2011based prototyping, rapid fabrication, and STEAM education, and he teaches courses in physical prototyping and industrial design.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPeter Presti\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EPrincipal Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. Over his 22\u2011year career at Georgia Tech, Presti has collaborated with major industry partners and federal agencies. His research spans sensor systems, biometrics, wearable computing, signal processing, embedded systems, and integrated hardware\u2011software prototyping.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERichard Starr\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003ESenior Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. Starr oversees the IPaT Secure Data Enclave, developing and managing the institute\u2019s secure infrastructure for healthcare data. His work ensures campus\u2011wide compliance with HIPAA, IRB requirements, and partnership agreements.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAndrew Zhao\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EResearch Scientist II\u003C\/em\u003E. Zhao, a Georgia Tech alumnus with bachelor\u2019s and master\u2019s degrees in Computer Science, specializes in social computing. His work examines how social media facilitates information flow and connection, particularly around mental health and elections. He supports the CANDOR Portal and AI\u2011CARING projects, contributing full\u2011stack development, data pipelines, LLM fine\u2011tuning, and infrastructure management.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese promotions are wonderful and well deserved. Hearty congratulations to Andrew, Kala, Richard, Noah, and Peter!\u201d said Michael Best, executive director of IPaT.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese promotions are a testament to the outstanding capabilities and contributions of IPaT\u2019s research faculty community,\u201d added Maribeth Gandy Coleman, director of research for IPaT.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people\u2011centered innovation across disciplines.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people centered innovation across disciplines."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 17:35:58","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 17:36:30","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-31T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-31T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679802":{"id":"679802","type":"image","title":"Five IPaT research faculty","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPictured: Kala Jordan, Noah Posner, Peter Presti, Richard Starr, and Andrew Zhao.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1774978414","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 17:33:34","changed":"1774978496","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 17:34:56","alt":"Pictured: Kala Jordan, Noah Posner, Peter Presti, Richard Starr, and Andrew Zhao.","file":{"fid":"264006","name":"5-people-v1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":284111,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg?itok=4nz7w0ba"}}},"media_ids":["679802"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689128":{"#nid":"689128","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Crystal Hanson: A Pillar of Service, Connection, and Excellence at Georgia Tech","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECrystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus.\u0026nbsp;Her career reflects the profound impact a dedicated staff member can have on an institution, not only through operational excellence but through relationships, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to service.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Career Built on Service and Adaptability\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s journey in higher education began immediately after high school when she joined Purdue University and discovered her passion for supporting students, faculty, and academic communities. She carried that passion across multiple institutions before landing at Tech, building a career grounded in adaptability, resilience, and people-centered service.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer Georgia Tech chapter began in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), where she supported the Water Resources Engineering group. There, she became a trusted resource for students and faculty alike \u2014 a steady presence who celebrated their successes, listened during challenges, and helped build a sense of community.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson credits Lisa Tuttle in CEE with helping her navigate the Georgia Tech landscape. With Tuttle\u2019s help, she also discovered a talent for event planning and administrative leadership, eventually serving as administration manager and supporting the CEE chair with meetings, alumni engagement, and major departmental initiatives. One of her most memorable experiences was coordinating a trip to NATO headquarters in Belgium, an opportunity that deepened her appreciation for global collaboration and institutional history.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cCrystal was an extraordinary contributor throughout her time in CEE, first in the Water Resources Engineering group and later as the trusted manager of the entire administrative support team,\u201d said Donald Webster, Karen and John Huff School Chair in CEE. \u201cIn every role, she brought dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for others. Crystal consistently went above and beyond to support the people of CEE \u2014 not only through professional challenges, but also during moments of personal crisis \u2014 always with compassion, steadiness, and grace. Her presence made our community stronger, more resilient, and more humane.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Trusted Partner in Research Leadership\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson later transitioned to the Executive Vice President for Research (EVPR) office, where she worked under leaders including Stephen Cross, Christopher Jones, Giselle Bennett, Raheem Beyah, and Julia Kubanek. Her time in this environment was formative. She absorbed the complexities of research administration, budgeting, and strategic planning, all while contributing to a culture where staff felt valued and included.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen I joined the EVPR office, and it had only three or four people, it seemed everyone was doing two or three jobs,\u201d said Christopher Jones, who joined the office in 2013 and is now the John F. Brock III School Chair in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. \u201cCrystal was an immediate fit, bringing with her organizational and management skills, a sense of humor, and an appreciation of our mission.\u0026nbsp; She is someone whom I always look forward to seeing, both then and now.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter Beyah left the EVPR office to become the dean and Southern Company Chair in the College of Engineering, Kubanek became the new vice president for Interdisciplinary Research (VPIR). Together, Kubanek and Hanson built and expanded the VPIR team, helping to shape its operations and identity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong her many contributions, Hanson initiated the Interdisciplinary Research Spotlight Awards, recognizing staff and research faculty who go above and beyond in the Interdisciplinary Research Institutes (IRIs). She also shepherded the Research Faculty Teaching Fellows program, ensuring that research faculty across Georgia Tech and the Georgia Tech Research Institute had opportunities to develop teaching skills in partnership with the Center for Teaching and Learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Connector at the Heart of the VPIR Office\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECrystal describes herself as someone who prefers to work behind the scenes: cleaning up after events, coordinating logistics, and taking on nearly any task that needs to be done.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCrystal is the ultimate behind-the-scenes master organizer and people connector,\u201d said Kubanek. \u201cShe develops individual relationships that enable her to organize, in short order, a meeting of numerous campus leaders whose calendars should be impossible to align. She comes bearing snacks and a smile and is the heart of our operation.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s deep institutional knowledge and extensive network positioned her to navigate Georgia Tech\u2019s complex landscape. She serves as a bridge between the VPIR office, the IRIs, GTRI, and campus partners, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and people feel supported, informed, and connected.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cHer deep institutional knowledge and strong networks across campus meant she almost always knew the right person to connect with or the best way to move something forward,\u201d said Punya Mardhanan, a former colleague in VPIR and now assistant director of business operations for the Space Research Institute. \u201cCrystal works incredibly efficiently and often completes things before anyone asks. She never seeks recognition for the many ways she supports her team.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Colleague, Advisor, and Steady Source of Wisdom\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s colleagues consistently describe her as someone who not only gets things done but also makes everyone around her better.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cShe\u2019s like a mother hen to the VPIR team,\u201d said Rob Kadel, executive director of research program administration. \u201cI can always go to Crystal and say, \u2018Who should I talk to about this?\u2019 and she will know exactly who to talk to. She is never afraid to speak her mind. She\u2019s a trusted advisor.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer leadership has also extended beyond formal responsibilities. She played a key role in designing the VPIR workspace during renovations, coordinated team retreats and bonding activities, and infused every gathering with energy and warmth.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cShe cares so much about the Georgia Tech community,\u201d said Colly Mitchell, director of events and engagement for the Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience. \u201cCrystal is incredibly responsive, helpful, and friendly. She brings a big burst of energy to every gathering.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWords that immediately come to mind when I think of Crystal are collaborative, dependable, responsive, and a true breadth of knowledge,\u201d adds Cynthia Moore, director of operations for the Institute for People and Technology, who worked alongside Hanson for nearly a decade. \u201cCrystal will truly be missed, along with her knowledge of all things Georgia Tech and research.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Legacy of Generosity and Excellence\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter nearly 14 years at Georgia Tech, Hanson will retire on April 1. She will be remembered as someone who connected people, solved problems, and always went above and beyond.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Raheem Beyah, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, \u201cCrystal was simply exceptional. She was a creative thought partner who provided outstanding support and strategic advice, and she became a dear friend. I am a better leader after working with Crystal, and Georgia Tech is a better place because of her. I can\u2019t think of many people who deserve a wonderful retirement more than she does.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her two daughters and two granddaughters, whose busy schedules she is eager to be part of. She and her husband have plans for travel, concerts \u2014 including those of her son-in-law\u2019s band, Grouplove \u2014 and perhaps even a cruise around the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech extends its deepest gratitude to Crystal Hanson for her years of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication. Her impact will continue to resonate across the VPIR office, the IRIs, and the broader research community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe wish her joy, adventure, and well-deserved rest in the next chapter of her life.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECrystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Crystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-23 13:49:21","changed_gmt":"2026-03-23 13:50:47","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679708":{"id":"679708","type":"image","title":"Crystal Hanson","body":null,"created":"1774273214","gmt_created":"2026-03-23 13:40:14","changed":"1774273266","gmt_changed":"2026-03-23 13:41:06","alt":"Crystal Hanson with Lisa Tuttle","file":{"fid":"263899","name":"Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2054104,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg?itok=v_8NMVPV"}}},"media_ids":["679708"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688825":{"#nid":"688825","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Charles Nimo Receives Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact, a philanthropic program supporting underrepresented graduate students whose research advances community focused, socially relevant scholarship.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFunded by Roland Ewubare, a distinguished Nigerian lawyer and corporate executive, the fellowship recognizes emerging scholars whose master\u2019s or doctoral work meaningfully connects with societal engagement and impact.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program expands opportunities for graduate researchers committed to addressing real world challenges through innovative, community centered inquiry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo is a third year Ph.D. student in computer science and a graduate research assistant in the Technologies and International Development Lab led by Michael L. Best, executive director of the Institute for People and Technology and professor in both the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs and the School of Interactive Computing. He is co-advised by Irfan Essa, professor in the School of Interactive Computing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo\u2019s research explores human centered natural language processing for healthcare, as well as multilingual AI systems in low resource contexts. Nimo develops tools to evaluate and improve the safety, robustness, and global inclusion of language technologies. His broader goal is to build AI systems that are fair, reliable, and effective across diverse languages and cultures, helping ensure that technological advances benefit communities often overlooked in mainstream AI development.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u2019m very grateful to receive this fellowship for societal impact,\u201d Nimo said. \u201cThank you for this support and believing in the work, and I\u2019m excited to keep building research that translates into real world benefit.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo earned his B.S. in electrical and computer engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, and his M.S. in computer science from the University of Texas at Austin.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-10 15:34:49","changed_gmt":"2026-03-10 19:50:43","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679558":{"id":"679558","type":"image","title":"Charles Nimo ","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECharles Nimo is a third year Ph.D. student in computer science.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773156769","gmt_created":"2026-03-10 15:32:49","changed":"1773156840","gmt_changed":"2026-03-10 15:34:00","alt":"Charles Nimo","file":{"fid":"263733","name":"Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":456125,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg?itok=qogb7bPV"}}},"media_ids":["679558"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688746":{"#nid":"688746","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Students Stretch the Future of Assistive Robotics","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENow in its fourth year, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/2025-stretch-robot-pitch-competition-2\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStretch Robot Pitch Competition\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges. Hosted by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETechSAge Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cidi.gatech.edu\/research\/rerctechsage\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Epart of which\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E is located in CIDI), the competition brings together students from across the Institute to create innovative applications for Stretch \u2013 \u0026nbsp;a lightweight, open source mobile manipulator robot with reaching, sensing, and grasping capabilities. Stretch was developed by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hello-robot.com\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHello Robot\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E which was co\u2011founded by former Georgia Tech professor Charlie Kemp.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith its compact form factor, capable arm, and relatively affordable price, Stretch has already become a favorite among researchers looking to push the boundaries of assistive robotics. The pitch competition invites Georgia Tech students to imagine not just what the robot can do, but what it should do to meaningfully improve daily life for people aging with disabilities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year, teams across several disciplines\u2014from engineering, to business, to computing, and the sciences\u2014submitted video pitches outlining how their technology concept tackles real-world problems users face. The winning team earned $1,000 and, more importantly, the chance to spend a semester working with Stretch in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/awarehome.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAware Home\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E turning their pitch into a working prototype. Sponsors included TechSAge, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ai-caring.org\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI-CARING\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInstitute for People and Technology (IPaT)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, and Hello Robot.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst place was awarded to \u201cChef Stretch,\u201d a concept aimed at helping older adults with disabilities determine whether food has spoiled so they can prepare and consume food safely. The five-student team included Caitlin Woodward and Elizabeth Thompson (College of Engineering), Aditi Ashok (Scheller College of Business), and Michelle Gu and Vedita Sawhney (College of Sciences).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile Chef Stretch took the top prize, the judges awarded an honorable mention to Ali Vafaeian (College of Computing) for \u201cBimanual Clothes Manipulation and Assisted Dressing\u201d with a $500 cash prize. His proposal tackles another essential activity of daily living, dressing, which can be challenging task for many individuals with mobility impairments.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cidi.gatech.edu\/feature\/stretching-future-assistive-robotics\u0022\u003ERead more about this competition and watch the winning students pitches \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENow in its fourth year, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/2025-stretch-robot-pitch-competition-2\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStretch Robot Pitch Competition\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Now in its fourth year, the Stretch Robot Pitch Competition continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-05 18:18:47","changed_gmt":"2026-03-05 18:19:11","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679531":{"id":"679531","type":"image","title":"Chef Stretch","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMichelle Gu, Aditi Ashok, Caitlin Woodward, Elizabeth Thompson, and Vedita Sawhney pose with Stretch and their award certificates. They won $1000 and the opportunity to develop their concept in the Aware Home.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1772734436","gmt_created":"2026-03-05 18:13:56","changed":"1772734469","gmt_changed":"2026-03-05 18:14:29","alt":"Michelle Gu, Aditi Ashok, Caitlin Woodward, Elizabeth Thompson, and Vedita Sawhney pose with Stretch and their award certificates. They won $1000 and the opportunity to develop their concept in the Aware Home. ","file":{"fid":"263704","name":"chef-stretch.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1558640,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png?itok=5yT5NAMp"}}},"media_ids":["679531"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688606":{"#nid":"688606","#data":{"type":"news","title":"IPaT Research Scientists Supporting Pediatric Research","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/a\u003E (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ptc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EChildren\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E (PTC). The center brings clinical experts from Children\u2019s together with Georgia Tech scientists and engineers to develop technological solutions to problems in the health and care of children. The PTC provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration to create breakthrough discoveries that enhance the lives of children and young adults in Georgia and beyond.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIPaT is supporting research within two of PTC\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pedsresearch.org\/centers\/pediatric-technology-center\/pillar-leadership\u0022\u003Ethree core research pillars\u003C\/a\u003E: data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; and patient\u2011centered care delivery. PTC\u2019s third research pillar is focused on technologies and devices. With the expertise of IPaT\u2019s research scientists, these joint efforts combine scientific expertise, clinical insight, and shared funding that are helping to transform research innovations into operational tools that directly support pediatric patient care at Children\u2019s.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIPaT is bringing two core competencies to both of these research pillars,\u201d said Maribeth Gandy Coleman, IPaT\u2019s director of research. \u201cFirst, we\u2019re advocating for and supporting the use of people-centered techniques to inform the research and co-designing the resulting system with all the stakeholders. Second, we\u2019re also making sure we can translate this research into a real return on investment for Children\u2019s. We are ensuring that what we design can be deployed in the hospital, and that it can be integrated with their existing systems and merge as seamlessly as possible with their existing workflows.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupporting Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence (Pillar 1)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPillar 1 focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence to enable more personalized and predictive pediatric care. The work aims to improve data collection infrastructure, support equitable AI practices, and build a Children\u2019s-Georgia Tech pediatric AI collaboration that integrates advanced AI tools into clinical workflows.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClinical Deterioration Prediction\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOne of the flagship projects within Pillar 1 involves developing machine learning models that can detect clinical deterioration in hospitalized children. The goal is to identify when a patient needs urgent escalation to the intensive care unit \u2014 faster and more accurately than traditional monitoring.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo achieve this, IPaT research scientists are:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExtracting and securely transferring electronic health record (EHR) data from Children\u2019s clinical systems.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETraining predictive models using that real\u2011world data.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuilding the software infrastructure required to deploy these models inside Children\u2019s.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIntegrating model outputs directly into the EHR using Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources\u0026nbsp;communication protocols. (FHIR is an international standard for the electronic exchange of healthcare information.)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis infrastructure is intentionally designed not just for this single project but as a repeatable, scalable framework for future AI\u2011enabled clinical tools developed through the Children\u2019s-Georgia Tech partnership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI-Enhanced Decision-Making for Hospital Operations\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA second emerging project under Pillar 1 aims to address one of healthcare\u2019s most persistent operational challenges: ICU capacity management. Seasonal fluctuations, such as surges in flu or Covid\u201119 cases, can create sudden ICU demand surges and staff illnesses, which can make scheduling and staffing decisions challenging.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPaT is building models that incorporate historical hospital activity, seasonal variation, and real\u2011time census and staffing levels to predict scheduling needs and help Children\u2019s optimize resource allocation. This research is just beginning, but holds the potential for improving both care delivery and staff well\u2011being. More importantly, IPaT is applying user-centered design and research techniques along with the engineering work to engage with Children\u2019s people and processes to ensure that these prediction and resource allocation models actually work, and that they will actually be used and useful in the Children\u2019s clinical environment.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupporting Patient\u2011Centered Care Delivery (Pillar 2)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPillar 2 seeks to improve pediatric outcomes by focusing on the \u201cwhole child\u201d \u2014 physical, psychological, social, and emotional well\u2011being \u2014 while accounting for the needs of families, caregivers, and community environments. Particular emphasis is placed on behavioral health, rural healthcare access, and chronic illness in underserved populations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPaT contributes to this work on two fronts:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUser Experience and Workflow Research\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIPaT\u2019s user experience (UX) researchers conduct interviews, workflow studies, and design evaluations with Children\u2019s clinicians and staff. This human\u2011centered research helps shape the interfaces, processes, and technologies needed to deliver patient\u2011centered care in practical, usable ways. These contributions ensure that tools created through the partnership align with the realities of clinical practice.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EData Integration for Behavioral and Social Insights\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor Pillar 2 research,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\/sde\u0022\u003EIPaT\u2019s secure data enclave\u003C\/a\u003E enables Children\u2019s EHR data to be transferred, stored, and analyzed in a HIPAA\u2011compliant environment. Researchers are using this infrastructure to combine clinical data with voluntarily contributed social media information from consenting participants. The aim is to explore indicators of psychological well\u2011being, behavioral health trends, and early warnings related to self\u2011harm.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Secure, Scalable Data Infrastructure to Support Both Pillars\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe IPaT secure data enclave provides a protected, secure environment for storing and analyzing sensitive patient information. It serves as the backbone connecting Georgia Tech researchers with Children\u2019s clinical systems. Both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 research initiatives rely on this Georgia Tech IPaT-managed secure infrastructure to safely enable:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEHR data transfer and storage.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMachine learning model development.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETesting and validation workflows.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEventual operational deployment back into Children\u2019s systems.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis secure, scalable architecture is central to the shared goal of translating research into actionable clinical tools.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAccelerating Pediatric Discovery\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s partnership with Children\u2019s represents a powerful model for cross\u2011institutional innovation. By aligning IPaT\u2019s strengths in human\u2011centered design, machine learning, and secure data systems with Children\u2019s clinical expertise, IPaT is helping to build solutions that move quickly from concept to bedside.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs these projects grow, especially with the ongoing expansion of the clinical deterioration system and the launch of the AI-enhanced operations initiative, IPaT research scientists anticipate even greater opportunities to support Children\u2019s mission and improve pediatric health outcomes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThank you to Richard Starr for providing insight about these research projects.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech (PTC).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech (PTC). "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-02-27 19:40:01","changed_gmt":"2026-03-05 15:05:05","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-27T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-27T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679477":{"id":"679477","type":"image","title":"Photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 team taken September 2025.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 research team taken September 2025. Six research faculty members from IPaT are in the picture: Peter Presti, Maribeth Gandy Coleman, Clint Zeagler, Jeremy Johnson, Richard Starr, Kala Jordan and Christine Taylor, a graduate research assistant in IPaT.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1772215469","gmt_created":"2026-02-27 18:04:29","changed":"1772222909","gmt_changed":"2026-02-27 20:08:29","alt":"Photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 team taken September 2025.","file":{"fid":"263644","name":"IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1659699,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg?itok=S6xXxovw"}}},"media_ids":["679477"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}}}