In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we highlight three lightning talks from UMSI's 2024 Alumni Homecoming Celebration. The talks examine cutting-edge research in the information science field. Rebecca Frank discusses the role of citizen-based nuclear disarmament verification through satellite imagery, emphasizing trust in data. Jiayu Zhou presents his work on using AI and machine learning for Alzheimer's detection and disease progression modeling. Finally, Yan Chen explores how social media promotion can improve job outcomes for underrepresented groups in STEM.
Speakers: Rebecca Frank | umsi, Yan Chen | umsi, Jiayu Zhou | umsi
Headlines: UMSI Alumni Homecoming Celebration, UMSI welcomes new 2024-25 faculty, 2024 UMSI employment reports show versatility of information science degree

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", University of Michigan professors Barbara McQuade, Ariel Hasell, and Ceren Budak join moderator Christian Sandvig to discuss the challenges of disinformation and misinformation in the digital age. They explore the role of social media platforms, the impact of technology on elections, and potential regulations to address these issues. The conversation also touches on how institutions, platforms, and individuals can work to mitigate the spread of false information and promote a healthier information environment. You can watch the full panel here.
To learn more about voting or registering to vote visit vote.gov.

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we hear from Jon Allan, Senior Academic and Research Program Officer at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. Allan challenges the perception of water as an infinite resource, explaining that while the total amount of water remains constant, its usability varies based on its state and location. He discusses the complexities of water management, including decentralized decision-making and the importance of evidence-based policies. Allan also highlights technological opportunities like data analysis and innovation to address water issues and emphasizes the role of storytelling and social cohesion in promoting effective conservation efforts. For the full talk click here
Headlines:
Study: Can mobile apps influence healthy behaviors among people with hypertension? | umsi
Teenage dream: MSI student uncovers adolescence in the archives | umsi
Working from home, kids version

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, we explore why online communities on platforms like Reddit and Facebook often thrive together rather than compete. NathanTeBlunthuis, a computational social scientist, shares his research using concepts from organizational ecology to reveal that overlapping communities frequently support each other instead of clashing. He also shares the implications of these findings for understanding digital media and designing better online spaces. To watch the full video of this 2023 talk click here.
Headlines: Peterson-Salahuddin: Can Kamala Harris turn memes into votes? It depends, UMSI assistant professor Robin Brewer earns Henry Russel award, Check out the American Archive

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, we focus on the power of citizen science, as we hear from UMSI assistant professor Andrea Thomer. Thomer shares her unique journey from a fossil excavator to a data curation expert, highlighting the critical role of data curation in preserving scientific data. She discusses a current project where volunteers contribute to transcribing historical fish population data using the Zooniverse platform. The talk emphasizes the importance of combining technology with the invaluable contributions of citizen scientists. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: Meet UMSI alumna and “Jeopardy!” super-champion Adriana Harmeyer, Batool: Deepfake sexual content disproportionately harms women, A Helpful Song That Makes It Easier to Memorize 200 Digits of Pi

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we explore the topic of water conservation and access, aligning with the University of Michigan School of Information's 2024 Theme Year. Drew Gronewold, an Associate Professor at the University of Michigan School of Environment and Sustainability, brings his expertise, highlighting key water conservation challenges and the obstacles in addressing them. He also examines the potential of information and technological advancements to create solutions. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: UMSI announces 2024 DEI Awards recipients, UMSI students advance wildlife research with motion-sensor camera data, Team Pursues Virtual, Physical Historic Preservation of Disappearing Black Schools.

Ever dreamt of becoming an entrepreneur? In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", Jason Blessing, CEO of Plex Systems and current UMSI advisory board member, offers invaluable insights and practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. In his 2015 talk at the University of Michigan School of Information, titled "Eight Lessons from the Trenches," Blessing shares his experiences and lessons learned. For the full video of this talk, click here.
Headlines: New social media tool measures hateful, offensive and toxic speech on social platforms, First Paper Friday: David Gamba, The Pudding: "this is a teenager".

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, Dora Demszky, an assistant professor at Stanford University, discusses the unprecedented potential of large language models (LLMs) in scaling various aspects of education. Demszky synthesizes findings from three papers that evaluate the ability of LLMs to provide feedback to educators on their discourse. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: Robert: The rewards and risks of using AI-powered technologies on our pets, UMSI students give RoosRoast new website designs that fit the vibe, The End of an Era: Women Who Code Closing

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything,", we put the spotlight on Jeff Furman, chair of the board of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Join us as Jeff takes us back to the early days of Ben & Jerry's in the 1980s, sharing how the company’s humble beginnings evolved into a powerful social mission. This mission has propelled Ben & Jerry's to the forefront of socially responsible business practices. Celebrating Ben & Jerry’s 35th anniversary, Jeff provides insights into the company’s journey and its ongoing commitment to making a positive impact. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HApxrdrqVA 
Headlines: UMSI community mourns the passing of distinguished alumna Nancy Gwinn, Faces of UMSI: Rachael Zuppke, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/02/01/ais-energy-appetite-meeting-the-demand-for-innovation/?sh=48aa396b46d1