The UNCG community is invited to the Advancing Research and Innovation for National Defense and Security Symposium on May 1, 2025.
The event at the beginning of Military Appreciation Month marks the launch of the UNCG Institute for the Convergence of Optimized Methods for Military Advances and National Defense, or iCOMMAND.
Invited speakers will discuss programs to support veterans, enhance partnerships, and strengthen research opportunities.
go.uncg.edu/2025-defense-symposium
The symposium represents an invaluable opportunity for collaborative research between defense partners and academic institutions. The event aims to foster a robust dialogue around the critical needs of national defense research, focusing on creating resources that enhance the safety and protection of soldiers in the field while also considering their post-service lives.
Col. John Whelahan, Director of Transformation and Innovation and Director of Effects at XVIII Airborne Corps, will deliver the keynote address.
Event speakers and panelists include:
- LTC Stephen DeLellis, Senior Technical Advisor and Executive Director of the Fort Bragg Research Institute, a program of The Geneva Foundation
- Bob Burton, DEFTECH Director, NC Military Business Center
- Louis Judge III, Regional Innovation Network Director – Piedmont, NC Innovation
- Victor S. Gavin, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence; Information Operations; and Space. CEO, Gavin Consulting
- Dr. Erin Reifsteck, Associate Professor and Soldier Holistic Health and Fitness and Performance Program Lead, UNC Greensboro
- Dr. Tetyana Ignatova, Associate Professor and Soldier Protective Materials Program Lead, UNC Greensboro
- Dr. Keith Whitener, Program Manager in the Defense Sciences Office, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Dr. Julia Barzyk, CEO, Wise Investigator
Bringing together faculty, defense experts, and industry leaders, the symposium will explore innovative strategies related to research, education, workforce development, and health.
