Nelly V. Tacheva is an innovator, entrepreneur, and educator with 20+ years of technology and leadership experience. Her metaverse platform Tangra is revolutionizing virtual learning, turning it into engaging, effective, and entertaining experiences. Nelly holds an MBA in Business Analytics and an MS in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Education.
"Learning in the Metaverse: Engaging, Effective, and Fun" at 10:00AM-10:50AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Serves as a catalyst to executing a comprehensive community development plan. Focused specifically on Small Business and Entrepreneurial Business attraction and retention.
"FAST Fest Launch Session" at 9:00AM-9:45AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Networking (Coordinator) at 5:00PM-7:00PM. Bistro Room.
Current Director for Partnership Grand Strand 501(c)3. PGS is an extension of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and focuses on accelerating the pace of prosperity across the Grand Strand area.
"FAST Fest Launch Session" at 9:00AM-9:45AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Multifaceted professional, tech-savvy, Web 3 adventurer, future-focused parent, cohabiting with a philosopher. She co-founded Grand Strand Web3 Guild with Jennifer Hotai in 2022.
"FAST Fest Launch Session" (Moderator) at 9:00AM-9:45AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
"Final Panel Session (Moderator) at 4:00PM-5:15PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Jennifer is a metaverse builder and Web3 educator. Member of VRAR Association, Metaverse Standards Forum, and is featured in the book 'Women of the Future'. She introduced metaverse technology as a speaker at Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College, with the goal of creating a Web3 curriculum for the Grand Strand area. Her passion for community tech development and education led to co-founding Grand Strand Web3 Guild in 2022 with Mckean Nowlin, the organizing force behind FAST Fest.
"FAST Fest Launch Session" (Moderator) at 9:00AM-9:45AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
"Final Panel Session (Moderator) at 4:00PM-5:15PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Two decades of experience in information security/ Author of over 75 articles and papers online and in print/ Inventor of the TRUMAN malware analysis system and the Conficker Eye Chart/ Founder of the SubProto hackerspace in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina/ Founder of Splyse Inc, a blockchain consultancy and first place winner of the first City of Zion dApp development competition (for Neo Smart IoT) and third place winner of the first Neo dApp development competition (for Neo Non-Fungible Token Contract)/
"Intro to Developing Smart Contracts Workshop" at 10:00AM-12:00PM and 2:00PM-4:00PM. Computer Lab 603
Dr. Wes Fondren holds a PhD in Communication and Information Science with a cognate in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Alabama. Prior to his doctorate Dr. Fondren worked in the information technology industry, the last five years as the Director of Technology for Boone Media which owns 45 media media outlets. Dr. Fondren has published articles and chapters on media psychology, technology adoption, gaming, and media effects. He currently teaches Communication & Technology and Communication Theory at Coastal Carolina University where he also serves as Associate Dean of the College of Graduate & Continuing Studies.
"Understanding AI: GenAI, Machine Learning, and Actual Intelligence" at 11:00AM-11:50AM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Being a Veteran who struggled so deeply with mental health and motivated by a deep desire to combat veteran suicide, Sariah founded the Veterans Gaming & Mental Health Mission (VGMH) 501©3 nonprofit organization. Through the power of gaming, she aimed to build a bridge of camaraderie and healing, particularly for veterans grappling with PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), and mental health in general. While not a professional psychologist, Sariah offers a resounding truth: open therapeutic discussions can be transformative. Her story, marked by a moment with a loaded weapon that failed to fulfill its tragic purpose, serves as a poignant reminder of life's unpredictability and the importance of seeking support and understanding.
"Gaming as a Bridge to Healing: Harnessing the Power of Camaraderie to Combat Veteran Suicide" at 12:00PM-12:50PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Chris Dawe embarked on his journey in the realm of computers during the early 1980s as a youthful teenager. Immersed in the world of coding, he orchestrated his own BBS system in an era preceding the ubiquity of the internet. His inaugural venture into the tech domain unfolded at Adobe Systems in the mid-1990s, where his affection for Photoshop blossomed. As an early adopter of pioneering digital cameras, he engaged in spirited competition with his film-using counterparts. The 2000s witnessed the convergence of his passion for both computers and photography, as he co-founded a venture with companions focused on imprinting images onto ceramic tiles. An outstanding feat of this endeavor involved skillfully manipulating over 50,000 community-contributed images to compose an 8-foot by 10-foot photomosaic, proudly displayed within the local Chamber of Commerce. Over the past 8 years, Chris has been an integral part of a Seattle-based tech enterprise, dedicating his days to crafting code. During his leisure hours, he persists in his affinity for photography, now enriched by the integration of AI tools that amplify his artistic expression.
"AI Art Creation Workshop" at 1:00PM-2:00PM and 3:00PM-4:00PM. Classroom 616.
Mike Fitzpatrick is a dynamic professional, renowned for his expertise as a Coach, Mortgage Loan Officer, and above all, a dedicated Father. His unique combination of professional skills, a passion for personal development, and unwavering family values makes him stand out in all his roles. Mike Fitzpatrick: a dedicated father, a trusted mortgage loan officer, an inspiring coach, and a captivating podcast host. His career stands as a testament to the power of ambition, empathy, and dedication. Guided by his belief that with the right support and personal determination, anyone can achieve their goals, Mike continues to inspire and facilitate growth in both personal and professional arenas.
"From Sci-Fi to ROI: Harnessing AI for Your Real Estate Empire" at 12:00PM-1:00PM and 3:00PM-4:00PM. Classroom 604.
Mason Jones is a 3rd year Ph.D. candidate in the College of Information Studies at the University of Maryland. His research focuses on metadata, digital forensics, linked data and semantic web, and improved accessibility for digital collections and digital content.
"Prompting Critical Information Literacy for Generative AI" at 1:00PM-1:50PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Loren Mixon is the Outreach and Academic Engagement Librarian at Coastal Carolina University. They work closely with students and faculty on their research agendas and have a background in feminist pedagogy, information literacy, and improving student engagement and experiences.
"Prompting Critical Information Literacy for Generative AI" at 1:00PM-1:50PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Leading the development of new curriculum focused on creative applications of Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain technology for art and research.
"Explorations of Artificial Intelligence in Art" at 2:00PM-2:50PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Dr. Jonathan Trerise is Professor of Philosophy at Coastal Carolina University. His areas of research are in ethics and political philosophy generally. He focuses on Applied Ethics in particular, emphasizing Military and Intelligence Ethics. He has published articles in professional journals and co-edited a volume on Political Ethics. His future projects include more on the ethics of intelligence work, but also branching into Space Ethics and the ethics of emerging technologies.
"AI and Ethics" at 3:00PM-3:50PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Charles is a seasoned relationship-builder, dedicated to delivering value to stakeholders and the center alike. With a knack for representation, he shines at governmental, civic, and corporate events, showcasing the center's significance on various platforms. Alumni of CCU benefit from his support, as he connects them with valuable internship and speaking opportunities, ensuring their continued success. Charles thrives on fostering collaboration, regularly meeting with both existing and potential stakeholders to drive growth. A true advocate, he spearheads fundraising efforts and masterfully coordinates major networking events, expanding the center's reach and impact. Notably, he co-hosts the engaging "Crowning Connections: Teal Talk Edition," contributing to the center's visibility and fostering meaningful conversations.
"Final Panel Session at 4:00PM-5:15PM. Herman C. Jones Conference Room.
Secure your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable experience! Click below to purchase your FREE ticket and join us for an event filled with education and fun.
We will keep you up-to-date with all of our latest news articles and press releases delivered straight to your email inbox!
We promise not to sell your data or send you spam!
