Representing Florida Atlantic at eMerge Americas

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining Florida Atlantic alumnus and South Florida Tech Pioneer Manny Medina ’74, at eMerge Americas — Miami’s premier conference for innovation and technology, which he co-founded. Our discussion, From Campus to Capital: Fueling Florida’s Rise as a Global Tech Powerhouse, highlighted the vital role Florida Atlantic and other state universities play in developing the next generation of technology leaders. Jaret Davis, senior vice president of Greenberg Traurig, an AmLaw 20 international law firm based in Miami, joined us as the moderator.

The eMerge Americas conference welcomed more than 20,000 attendees from more than 50 countries, providing a global platform to showcase Florida Atlantic’s strengths as an economic engine and catalyst for innovation. From groundbreaking research in cryptology and robotics to dynamic industry partnerships and entrepreneurial initiatives, the exciting ways in which our University is redefining tomorrow took center stage.

Florida Atlantic also featured its cutting-edge technology and research at a Platinum Sponsor booth represented by the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, College of Business, College of Engineering and Computer Science, and Research Park at Florida Atlantic. These Owls engaged with visionaries and thought leaders, exchanging ideas and opportunities that will bolster our rising prominence and enhance South Florida’s tech ecosystem.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share the stage with Manny and Jaret, who have invested so much into transforming South Florida into the international tech hub it is today. I am proud to lead an institution that is driving this progress forward by turning regional strengths into global accomplishments — especially in areas such as ocean science and engineering, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and human health. Thank you to everyone who made this year’s eMerge Americas conference a success. I look forward to further elevating Florida Atlantic’s role in shaping the future.