The St. Pete Innovation District is the professional home to hundreds of scientists, technologist, and doctors. These individuals are leaders in their fields world-wide but are often unknown locally. They are working to solve childhood illnesses, map the ocean, address climate change, and develop new technology. In 2017, the District created a new kind of event to showcase these individuals and their stories - State of Science.
The "State of Science" name is a play on words. Similar to "State of the Union" or "State of the Economy" this is an annual event that highlights accomplishments of the last year. We invite a cross section of speakers to give fast-paced, brief presentations that are sure to pique your curiosity. The past years have highlighted work in healthcare, coastal mapping, research into illegal animal trade, new technologies, and more.
The best part of the event is that participants learn about a topic they never would have expected. They are reminded how cool St. Pete is and the amazing work that is happening here. Mark your calendar for the next District State of Science and Innovation on January 11th at 5pm. Registration RSVP will be coming out soon.
There are many quotes about innovation and how it is fostered. I have several hanging in my office. We recently looked to these as we were deciding the name for our new breakfast series. Our brainstorming kept coming back to the concept that ideas are the beginning - they create the "spark" that fuels innovation.
Congratulations to Sarah Gilbert, Chief Operating Officer of Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital for being named a 2024 BusinessWoman of the Year honoree. We are also thrilled that Sarah has recently joined the Board of Directors for the Innovation District.
The University of South Florida (USF) has announced its intention to create a college focused on the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and computing, with the goal of positioning the Tampa Bay region and state of Florida as a national leader. USF is the first university in Florida and among the first in the nation to announce plans to create a college dedicated to AI and cybersecurity.