Faculty
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Foad HamidiLab Director, Assistant Professor
Dr. Hamidi is an Assistant Professor in the Information Systems Department at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). His research is focused on the participatory design and evaluation of emerging systems. He is also interested in designing inclusive and sustainable maker processes, tools and programs for diverse communities. Dr. Hamidi has worked on a number of international research and design projects in the United States , Canada, Kenya, Mexico, Bhutan, and Spain. He regularly collaborates with artists, activists, therapists, special education teachers, and other collaborators on diverse projects. He has a PhD in Computer Science from the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University in Toronto, Canada.
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Current Students
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Lydia Stamato
Doctoral Student, Human-Centered Computing
Lydia Stamato is interested in how humans interact with living media interfaces and new possibilities for participation and creativity in technology design, especially explored through community, artistic, and activist perspectives. She is also interested in sociotechnical systems supporting free and open internet.
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Erin HigginsDoctoral Student, Human-Centered Computing
Erin is a PhD student and research assistant at UMBC. She is interested in creating equitable and accessible makerspaces and observing the impact of these spaces in the community. She is also interested in using makerspaces to develop low-cost assistive technology.
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Hasan Mahmud ProttoyDoctoral Student, Human-Centered Computing
Hasan Mahmud Prottoy is a PhD student at Human-Centered Computing program. He is interested in exploring the intersection between culture, identity and technology using critical Human Computer Interaction approaches. His previous research in HCI involves aspects of after-use phase of technology (repair, recycling, e-waste), and religious media content sharing at Bangladesh. Before coming to UMBC, he earned his bachelor at Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology.
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Kirk Crawford (Pronouns: He/Him/His)Doctoral Student, Human-Centered Computing
Kirk is a Ph.D. student in the Human-Centered Computing (HCC) program in the Department of Information Systems (IS) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). He is also a product manager and user experience practitioner for digital services at the federal government. His broad research interests are in accessibility and public service. Kirk’s current research examines the need, availability, and quality of accessibility services and technologies available to underserved and marginalized communities. His dissertation research leverages an intersectional framework to investigate accessible services and technology in LGBTQIA+ community centers and safe spaces. Kirk holds a B.S. degree in IS and an M.S. degree in HCC, both from UMBC.
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Marie SakowcizMasters Student, Human-Centered Computing
Ms. Marie Sakowicz holds a position as the Program Manager for the implementation of the new order entry system at the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). Prior to that she was the Chief of the Air and Space Force Portfolio Branch in the Mission Partner Engagement Office. She plays a leading role in developing the strategic direction for the order entry and service delivery to the DISA Mission Partners. Ms. Sakowicz has managed various enterprise level programs for over 15 years.
Ms. Marie Sakowciz is a graduate of Park University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Systems Management. Ms. Sakowicz aslo holds a Masters Degree in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University and a Project Management Professional certification. She is currently persuing a masters degree in Human Centered Computing at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Ms. Marie Sakowicz holds a position as the Program Manager for the implementation of the new order entry system at the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). Prior to that she was the Chief of the Air and Space Force Portfolio Branch in the Mission Partner Engagement Office. She plays a leading role in developing the strategic direction for the order entry and service delivery to the DISA Mission Partners. Ms. Sakowicz has managed various enterprise level programs for over 15 years. Ms. Marie Sakowciz is a graduate of Park University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Systems Management. Ms. Sakowicz aslo holds a Masters Degree in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University and a Project Management Professional certification. She is currently persuing a masters degree in Human Centered Computing at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. |
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Thomas AjalaUndergraduate Student, Mechanical EngineeringThomas Ajala is an undergraduate student studying mechanical engineering at UMBC. He is interested in additive manufacturing, and using its utility and accessibility for assistive devices, engineering design, and engineering education.
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Amina El-Ashry
Undergraduate Student, Information Systems Amina is an undergraduate student majoring in information systems with interests in assistive technology and the intersection between technology and culture. She is determined to use her blessing of knowledge to find clever and effective solutions to the problems of those in need of these solutions, from disabled individuals to those struggling in third world countries, and found that the DARE lab is the perfect avenue to accomplish this. Amina is currently researching ways to create tactile graphics or interactive books for children with and without disabilities using 3D fabrication. In her free time she enjoys running, traveling with family, and web development.
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Jennifer PosadaMasters Student, Human-Centered ComputingJennifer is a Master’s student in UMBC’s Human-Centered Computing program. She is interested in improving access to assistive technology and supporting research that studies the digital divide in underrepresented communities. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from UMBC and is motivated by her interest in observing human behavior and the learning processes involved when interacting with computers. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys creating art using different mediums, and practicing yoga daily. She also volunteers with AFROOS, an NGO that works to raise awareness about social justice issues, humanitarian issues and erasure faced by the Afrosalvadoran community in El Salvador and members of its diaspora in the US.
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Yetunde OkuesoMasters Student, Human Centered ComputingYetunde is a masters student in the Human-Centered Computing program at UMBC. Her research interests are in assistive tech and mental health, specifically into how assistive tech can be used to help college students manage the effect of their mental health on their academic responsibilities. For fun, she writes, reads and watches romcoms, and cooks Nigerian food.
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Alumni
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Zaria OliverUndergraduate Student, Mechanical EngineeringMy name is Zaria Oliver. I am a current senior, mechanical engineering student driven by my passion for research and innovation. My interests include virtual and augmented reality, robotics, and 3D modeling which I hope to incorporate into my pursuit of a graduate degree as well as my future career. I am currently experienced with work on sustainability and robotic engineering projects, and have also had the opportunity to teach introductory engineering curriculum. I have been recognized as both a Meyerhoff and Grand Challenge scholar for my commitment to the field of STEM.
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Laura LachinUndergraduate Student, Integrated Design & MediaLaura is an undergraduate student at New York University majoring in Integrated Design & Media and minoring in Disability Studies. She is interested in developing assistive technology and helping physical and digital spaces become more accessible. Additionally, she enjoys physical fabrication and using machines such as 3D printers and laser cutters. Laura is a Maryland native and enjoys painting and playing video games in her free time.
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Quinlan Kimble-BrownMaster's Student, Human Centered ComputingQuinlan Kimble-Brown is a masters student studying Human-Centered Computing at UMBC. She received her B.S. in Computer Science at Morgan State University. She is interested in accessibility, video-game design, and education. Her previous experiences include software engineering internships and being a code lead in a classroom setting for youth in Chicago.
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Serena GyiMasters Student, Human-Centered ComputingSerena is a Masters student in the Human-Centered Computing program at UMBC. She is interested in using technology to encourage people to engage with their outdoor surroundings, as well as investigating the potential to use that engagement to assist environmental protection and urban development efforts. She previously worked for a educational video game startup, and prior to that was an electrical engineer for the US Navy's Nuclear Power Program. She holds a BS in electrical engineering from Auburn University, Alabama
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Nora McDonald
Affiliated Research Faculty
I'm a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Information Systems at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), with a PhD in Information Science from Drexel University College of Computing and Informatics where I studied internet privacy and anonymity. My research interests are broadly in social justice and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Computer-Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW). I use primarily qualitative and ethnographic methods to study technology bias, algorithm fairness and ethics in education and industry, and privacy for vulnerable individuals.
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William EasleyDoctoral Student, Human-Centered ComputingWilliam Easley is a Ph.D. student in the Human-Centered Computing Program in the Department of Information Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). His broad research interests are in the area of computer-supported cooperative work. His dissertation research seeks to understand how youth collaborate in technical workplaces and investigate how technology can be better designed to address challenges that they may encounter. Prior to working on this topic, he has conducted research in other areas including accessibility and engineering education. He holds a B.S. degree in Information Systems and a M.S. degree in Human-Centered Computing, both from UMBC.
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Susanna AblerUndergraduate Student, Animation and Individualized StudiesSusanna is an Animation and Individualized Studies major focusing on the concept of artistic prosthetic design. She has an interest in disability studies and working to make assistive devices that are customized to the individual, both for function and aesthetics. When she is not busy with school, Susanna enjoys drawing, watching horror movies, and sitting outside with her family's flock of chickens.
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Zulekha Karachiwalla
Undergraduate Student, Computer Engineering
Zulekha Karachiwalla is an undergraduate student studying computer engineering at UMBC. Her research interests are in the area of medical robotics and assistive technology, and specifically looking at the access to these resources within minority and disadvantaged communities. Currently, her research in the DARE lab focuses on the refugee population in Maryland and the obstacles they face with accessing healthcare and medical assistance. Within her community Zulekha participates and helps run a local mentorship program for high school girls at her local mosque in Baltimore. In her free time she enjoys painting, playing flute and basketball.
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Rushaad Wright
Undergraduate Student, Business Technology AdministrationRushaad Wright is an undergraduate student studying Business Technology Administration at UMBC. Rushaad is an avid problem-solver with a strong interest in technology and using it to make effective and positive change in today’s world. Currently, he interns at a non profit where he conducts data and market analysis. In his free time, Rushaad can be found reading or practicing either Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or Judo.
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Daniel Laguna
Undergraduate Student, Information Systems
Daniel is studying Information Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. His current research on Project Waves in the DARE lab responds to Covid-19 in Baltimore City by investigating a community-based approach to deploying free broadband Internet for low-income populations. He works on helping to improve computer accessibility for seniors by setting up their smart devices and aiding in increasing user confidence. During his free time Daniel enjoys playing the drums, hiking, and sailing.
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Karina Lopez
Undergraduate Student, Information Systems
Karina Lopez is an international student in Information Systems at UMBC. She’s also pursuing Certificates in Cybersecurity Informatics and Network Administration. Her personal mission is to grow professionally and spiritually to be able to help others in need. She enjoys finding solutions to problems or difficult situations. Her interests are focused on supporting research targeted towards children, women, and disadvantaged communities. She is a Cyber scholar in the Center for Women in Technology (CWIT). Within CWIT, she has volunteered in activities dedicated to empowering girls and women. She has participated in mentorship and given talks at all-girls schools. In her free time, she teaches religious education to children on Sunday mornings. Her hobbies include listening to music, reading, playing soccer, and spending time with family.
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Xinran Zhang
Masters Student, Human-Centered Computing
Xinran Zhang is a masters student majoring Human-centered-computing, holding a bachelor's degree in Advertising from Nanjing University of Posts & Telecommunications, interested in interaction design and the improvement of technology accessibility. Currently working in the distributive making project to help visually imparid children having access to 3D based story books. Hobbies includes detective fiction, badminton, and illustration.
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Savani Shrotri
Masters Student, Human-Centered Computing
Savani is a graduate student studying Human-Centered Computing at UMBC. She is a contemporary Cloud UX Design Intern at Reality AI. She holds a BS degree in Computer Science and Engineering degree from Shivaji University, India. Observing how people use everyday objects, interfaces, and thinking about the user experience process is something that fascinates her. She has an insatiable desire to explore the world and understand cultures on her own. With a passion for emerging technology and inclusive design, she strives to create experiences that connect design, human behavior, and cultural insights.
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S. Nisa Asgarali-Hoffman
Nisa Asgarali-Hoffman completed her master of science degree in Human-Centered Computing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She is currently a doctoral student at the University of Maryland, College Park iSchool. Her research interests include youth-centered participatory design and the intersectionality of race, gender, class, and HCI. She holds an A.A. degree in studio art from Howard Community College, a B.A. degree in International Area Studies from Drexel University, a B.A. in Art Education (K-12) from Towson University, and a graduate certification in Interactive Media Design from Towson University.
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Kai Wisner
Undergraduate Student, Mechanical EngineeringKai Wisner studies mechanical engineering and enjoys design work and problem solving. Kai is a member of the men's UMBC swimming and diving team. Beyond studying and the pool Kai designs and builds rc airplanes and races nitro rc cars.
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Jason Charney
Jason Charney holds an Intermedia and Digital Arts MFA degree from UMBC. His artwork with sound, objects, and light explores feedback, technology-aided interaction, and architectural space. He holds degrees in music theory and composition from the University of Kansas and Bowling Green State University.
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Amy L. Freeland
Amy Freeland holds a MS in Human-Centered Computing from UMBC. She currently works for a law firm in Maryland. Her research interests are assistive technology as it pertains to individuals with multiple disabilities, understanding how technology can aid in the sustainability of makerspaces or DIY spaces, and inclusive access to technology for underrepresented individuals and groups. She holds a B.A in Business Technology Administration from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and an A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies from Frederick Community College.
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Emily Long
Emily holds a M.S. in Human Centered Computing at UMBC. She is currently employed as a User Experience Designer at Northrop Grumman. She is interested in researching Assistive Technologies and specifically how they help people on the Autism Spectrum communicate and take part in social activities. She has an A.A. in General Studies from Howard Community College, and a B.S. in English Writing from Towson University. Outside of work and studying, Emily enjoys spending time with her husband and many animals, including 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 horses, 7 chickens, and approximately 20,000 honey bees.
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Sruti Vijaykumar
Sruti holds a MS in Human-Centered Computing at UMBC and works at UserWorks as a User Experience Specialist. She has a special interest in designing for accessibility and has hands-on experience in conducting usability tests with participants who have blindness, low-vision, motor impairments, and cerebral palsy. Sruti has a Bachelor of Computer Engineering degree from Savitribai Phule Pune University, India.
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Mikhail Dorfman
Mikhail Dorfman studies mathematics and statistics but enjoys making devices that can perform some mathematics and statistics. Beyond studying Mikhail develops software and creates digitally altered experiences.
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