Where ideas become impact
Created to inspire curiosity, innovation, and interdisciplinary thinking, the College of Arts and Sciences Innovative Leaders Lecture Series brings visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to campus to share how bold ideas move from discovery to real-world solutions.
Through keynote talks and conversations, speakers offer firsthand insight into building organizations, advancing technology, and navigating complex challenges. The series connects students, faculty, alumni, and community members with leaders shaping the future.
Upcoming Speakers
Hear from pioneers across science, technology, business, and public service who are transforming research into meaningful impact.
How do you turn a scientific idea into a successful life science company?
Dr. Andrew Thompson
CEO and co-founder, SMi Systems
Monday, Nov. 2,
4:10 p.m.
Fulmer Hall, Room 201
Past Speakers Archive
Accelerating scientific discovery with quantum computing, high performance computing, and artificial intelligence
Dr. Nathan Baker
Partner, Quantum Applications
Microsoft Corporation
Thursday, September 24,
12:00-1:00 p.m.
Webster Physical Sciences Building, B11
The future of memory chip technology and role of innovation
Dr. Gurtej S. Sandhu
Principal Fellow and Corporate Vice President of Technology Development Micron Technology, Inc.
Monday, March 23, 2:10-3:00pm
Troy Hall, Room G5
PDX Pharmaceuticals’ Journey in Developing Next-Generation Cancer Therapies: Opportunities and Challenges of Building an Academic Startup
Dr. Wassana Yantasee
Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and the Founder & CEO of PDX Pharmaceuticals
Monday, September 15, 4:10 p.m.
Fulmer Hall, Room 201
Development of Robust, Sustainable Chemical Processes for the Rapid Delivery of Drug-Linkers
Dr. Rajappa Vaidyanathan
Head of Chemical Process and Analytical Development,
Pfizer Inc.
Monday, October 6, 4:10 p.m.
Fulmer Hall, Room 201