Dr. Ratana Prinyawiwatkul Warren is an esteemed instructor in the Department of Computer Science at Southern University and A & M College. Under the NTIA, she collaborates with Dr. Brian Warren to lead the management of CAVE, maintaining its hardware and software, and developing applications using Unity and C#. With over a decade of teaching experience, she brings extensive knowledge and expertise to her role. Before joining Southern University, Dr. Warren was a programmer at Windrock Inc., Knoxville, TN. She is a professional member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and holds numerous certificates, including Cybersecurity Academy Orientation, Cybersecurity Foundation, Enterprise Design Thinking Practitioner, IBM Data Science Practitioner, and Data Science Tools. Dr. Warren has completed Unity training courses, equipping her with foundational skills in Unity and the ability to create interactive, real-time 3D projects. Her portfolio includes several Unity projects, ready for professional application. Her academic contributions include publications such as "Multimodal Course Design and Implementation Using LEML and LMS For Instructional Alignment" in the International Journal of Computer Science & Information Technology (IJCSIT), and "Investigating Wireless and Internet of Things Technologies Security Threats and Attacks" in the International Journal of Wireless & Mobile Networks (IJWMN), Vol. 14, No. 3, June 2022.

Dr. Opeyemi Ojajuni is a dynamic research scientist with over 10 years of experience in Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), computer networks, cybersecurity, and STEM education. He has collaborated on multimillion-dollar projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), developing innovative methodologies that have revealed links between VR exposure and cognitive development. Proficient in advanced statistical analysis, machine learning, and AI tools such as Python, R, and SQL, Dr. Ojajuni excels at translating research into actionable solutions, including VR/AR simulations for engineering. His research focuses on the intersection of VR, cybersecurity, and AI, with an emphasis on STEM education. He has presented at international conferences, published extensively in leading journals, and remains at the forefront of innovations in immersive learning and AI applications in education.

Nikhil Rao Pendyala is a dedicated Virtual Reality Developer at Southern University and A&M College, actively contributing to the SURADD initiative. This collaborative effort with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) aims to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. Nikhil Rao Pendyala specializes in Unity development, crafting immersive virtual reality experiences. Additionally, he leverages Leica scanner technology to capture precise 3D models, enhancing the realism and impact of virtual environments. By combining technical expertise with a passion for social impact, Nikhil Rao Pendyala is committed to empowering individuals and communities through the power of technology.

Driven by a passion for educational equity, I’m Sri Divya Reddy Mettu, a doctoral student at Southern University with a strong foundation in programming and AI. I am dedicated to advancing STEM education and addressing educational disparities through innovative technology. As part of Southern's VR team, I’ve worked on the SURADD project, contributing to NTIA and OPH grant research. For the NTIA project, I focused on enhancing K-12 STEM education and immersive learning experiences through summer camps, while the OPH project used VR for Anatomy in Health Physics. My research explores how VR can develop critical thinking and industrial skills in STEM fields, which I presented at the iLSET conference. I’m currently involved in the ICLERT project for FEMA, developing simulations to train emergency response personnel. In addition to my research, I’m deeply committed to mentorship and outreach. I tutor computer science to inspire the next generation of tech innovators and aim to create inclusive, accessible learning environments that provide equal opportunities for all students, especially women and those from underserved communities. Through my work, I strive to bridge the gap between technology and education, ensuring that everyone has the chance to thrive in today’s digital world.

Amaka Ojieh is an emerging researcher in health science and education, specializing in the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) into public health training and crisis management. Currently pursuing a PhD in Science and Mathematics Education, Amaka has contributed to the OPH project which applied VR to health physics, and is a research team member on the ICLERT project, focused on mitigating crises in emergency response. With a strong foundation in Biology and a passion for public health, Amaka is dedicated to leveraging immersive learning technologies to enhance training and preparedness in critical health scenarios. Her research explores the intersection of VR, public health, and education, aiming to develop innovative and impactful solutions for real-world challenges.

Damilare Adigun is a PhD student with a robust academic foundation and practical experience, He specializes in leveraging VR and AI technologies to enhance cybersecurity training, crisis management and STEM learning environments. Currently, Damilare contributes to National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded projects, including Enhancing Additive Manufacturing Education with Cybersecurity and Virtual Reality, and the Immersive Community Leadership Emergency Readiness Training (ICLERT) initiative aimed at building future crisis management leaders. Leveraging a Chemical Engineering background and previous research on biodegradation of hydrocarbon for oil spills, his work explores innovative applications of VR training for crisis management and emergency response during chemical and oil spills.

Likem Dunyo is a software engineer with four years of experience developing web and mobile applications. Proficient in Javascript/Typescript frontend and backend frameworks, Flutter, Python, and AWS Cloud technologies, Likem has consistently delivered powerful industry-grade applications across various fields. Currently a first-year graduate student in the Department of Computer Science, he is keen to use data and AI to change the world. When Likem is not building applications, he's dominating the midfield on soccer fields around Baton Rouge.

Jaden Martin, a Mechanical Engineering major at Southern University, is dedicated to broadening his expertise. He actively contributes to the CAVE Transition Team, the E-Sports/ Gaming Project sector, and the ICLERT Project. Jaden is committed to pursuing graduate studies to further enhance his knowledge and research skills.

Sai Kiran is a dedicated computer science student with a passion for leveraging technology-driven solutions to address complex challenges. He specializes in virtual reality (VR) and game development, with a particular focus on enhancing education and disaster preparedness. Currently, Sai Kiran is exploring the integration of VR technology into middle school science curricula, aiming to create interactive and hands-on learning experiences that align with national education standards. He works closely with teachers, guiding them in adopting these innovative tools to transform how students engage with STEM subjects. Beyond education, Sai Kiran has collaborated with the Department of Public Health on projects that simulate disaster response scenarios, including hurricanes and chemical spills, benefiting Southern University and its surrounding communities. In these interdisciplinary efforts, he plays a key role in coordinating project activities and supporting the development of virtual training modules, which are reinforced by FEMA training protocols. Sai Kiran research interests extend into materials science, where he has contributed as part of a laboratory team investigating novel materials and their applications. His efforts in this field include designing experiments and analyzing data, notably in developing innovative electrocatalysts derived from sustainable sources like coffee waste. Additionally, Sai Kiran actively participates in initiatives aimed at addressing the digital divide, such as SURADD at Southern University. His work focuses on expanding broadband accessibility and delivering immersive VR-based learning experiences to underrepresented communities. By fostering digital skills and supporting workforce development, Sai Kiran is committed to empowering communities through technology and education.

After gaining experience in software development while doing undergrad research in genetic drift computer modeling, Samuel graduated from Louisiana State University with a B.S. in Biological Sciences. However, he wanted to delve more into the software development side of the research he had done, and enrolled in the M.S. in Computer Science program at Southern University, where he joined the SURRAD team in Fall 2023. Samuel's work on the team involves Unity software development for VR systems (VR headsets and Cave Automatic Virtual Environments), specifically for applications in education. Also as part of the ICLERT project, Samuel works on creating immersive, VR enabled Unity programs for hurricane disaster response training.

Jahnavi is a graduate Computer Science student at Southern University, focusing on leveraging technology for educational advancement. With expertise in Unity Essentials and programming, she is working to implement Cognitive Behavioral Training modules in Unity. She works on a team dedicated to developing VR models for learning, aiming to bridge the digital divide. Previously, Jahnavi contributed to the OPH (Office of Public Health) VR project, creating VR Health Physics Models for immersive anatomy education. She also presented a paper at the International Conference on Life Sciences, Engineering, and Technology (iLSET), titled “Implementing Virtual Reality for Immersive Learning about Heavy Machinery Operation.” Currently, she is involved in a disaster simulation project on hurricanes and chemical spills, along with emergency response simulations. Additionally, Jahnavi assists in ensuring that this web page is optimized for readability and efficiency.

Sirisha is a skilled software engineer with 3 years of experience, specializing in Java, ReactJS, JavaScript, Spring Boot, JUnit, Postman, and GitHub. Currently, she is part of the NTIA/iClert project at Southern University, where she plays a key role in developing innovative solutions. Sirisha is dedicated to delivering high-quality software and applying her technical expertise to tackle complex challenges efficiently.

Lauren N. Dukes is a senior Mechanical Engineering student at Southern University & A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with a strong interdisciplinary focus in material science, finite element analysis, quality control, manufacturing, and project management. She holds IBM’s Design Thinking certification, which has enhanced her performance in both technical and leadership roles. Her experience includes serving as team lead for the AMIE Design Team, competing in the ACES Case Competition, interning at Medtronic and Honeywell, and serving in various leadership roles in organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Her dedication and excellence have earned her numerous honors, including the Southern University 25 Under 25 Award, Thurgood Marshall College Fund Google HBCU Scholarship, and National Society of Black Engineers Chevron Award. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ms. Dukes is deeply committed to her community. She has served as a mentor and tutor for the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition and Zeta Youth Auxiliaries, coordinated scholarships through Bayou Tri-Parish, mentored Southern University Laboratory School’s Robotics Team, and volunteered with the university’s recruitment department. Lauren’s commitment to service, coupled with her relentless work ethic and drive for growth, continue to shape her impact as a student, engineer, and community leader.