Dean/Biochemist/Microbiologist-@RITScience @RITtigers. My views and opinions are my own. ΑΦΑ-(Γ-Spr. 98)-RTs do not imply agreement or endorsement. 🇯🇲 🇺🇸
Congrats to @RITscience faculty member, @CristaWadsworth! Well done!
Wadsworth working to curb the spread of antibiotic resistance with NIH award https://t.co/AVMaanErmv via @RITTigers#RIT
Excited to start reading The Art of Clear Thinking and The Code Breaker. One focuses on making better decisions, the other on the groundbreaking science of gene editing. Looking forward to the insights and inspiration from both.
Of all the publications and pieces I’ve written over the years, I am especially proud of this one. Not because it will garner citations, improve my H-index, or elevate traditional academic metrics, but because I chose to write it at a time when doing so was not necessarily popular or comfortable.
When this piece was published, the feedback was incredibly mixed. Some emails told me I was wrong, “woke,” or “drinking the Kool Aid.” Others reached out simply to say thank you, not only because they agreed, but because they appreciated that the conversation was being had openly and honestly.
What struck me most were the messages from individuals who admitted they initially disagreed based solely on the title. Yet after reading the full piece, they shared that the framing and perspective challenged their assumptions and ultimately shifted how they thought about the topic. To me, that is the power of thoughtful dialogue.
As academics and educators, I believe we sometimes have a responsibility to intentionally engage ideas that spark reflection, conversation, and even discomfort, not merely reinforce consensus or avoid critique. Scholarship should not only inform; it should invite engagement.
Today, I had the privilege of attending a phenomenal keynote by Dr. Terrell Morton @DrTRMorton at the SABER East 2026 Conference earlier today, and it was truly reinvigorating. It reminded me that the work of expanding dialogue, challenging systems, and creating space for deeper understanding is still necessary. Huge kudos to all the fantastic folks who do work in spaces that are hard and uncomfortable at times! A luta continua!
Onward and upward.
Bob Marley’s Rat Race is one of his most powerful social commentaries, exposing the struggles, inequalities, and pressures of modern society. Released in 1976 on Rastaman Vibration, the song critiques systems that force people into endless competition while leaving many spiritually and emotionally unfulfilled. Marley used reggae not just as entertainment but as a tool for awareness and resistance.
The title Rat Race symbolizes the endless cycle of chasing money, status, and survival without ever finding true peace or fulfillment. Marley challenges society’s definition of success and asks listeners to think beyond material wealth.
One of my favorite lines is, “In the abundance of water, the fool is thirsty.” That lyric captures the heart of the song’s message. Even in a world filled with resources and opportunity, many people remain disconnected, oppressed, or unsatisfied because of greed, corruption, and misplaced priorities.
What makes the song timeless is how relevant it still feels today. Modern culture glorifies overwork, competition, and social status, leaving many people burned out and disconnected. Marley encourages people to think independently, resist conformity, and instead seek unity, balance, and spiritual freedom.
Musically, the song blends a smooth reggae groove with serious, thought provoking lyrics, making it both reflective and revolutionary. I also love this quote. “The day you stop racing is the day you win the race.” Food for thought and mind wine.
Check out this gem of a tune here: https://t.co/8TXHz7vDVC
I am thrilled to join the Board of Directors of the Archimedes Center!
The Archimedes Center is dedicated to advancing innovation, education, and collaboration at the intersection of science, technology, and society. Their mission to foster transformative ideas and impactful solutions deeply resonates with me, and I am excited to contribute to this important work.
Learn more about the organization and its mission here: https://t.co/3SgtDss8Ps
I look forward to working alongside Dr. Harold Smith and my fellow board members as we help shape meaningful initiatives and opportunities for the future.
Celebrating the 100th Birthday of Miles Dewey Davis III (May 26, 1926 – Sept. 28, 1991). Happy Heavenly Birthday to a true legend. Thank you for your timeless contributions to music and humanity. #MilesDavis100#MilesDavis
This Memorial Day, @RITscience honors and remembers the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve. Thank you for your courage, dedication, and sacrifice.
@tavissmiley@CornelWest where are you guys? It would be great to hear from you both! Isn’t it fascinating that you two are as quiet as church mice but were very vocal and critical of #44, cat caught your tongues?
Please join me in congratulating @RITscience faculty member, Dr. Anthony Vodacek on being named a 2026 Fulbright U.S. Scholar for the Africa Regional Research Program!
Through this prestigious award, Dr. Vodacek will lead research to develop sensor networks to support regional lake monitoring across the African Great Lakes. Building on prior research and existing datasets, the project will identify opportunities to strengthen long-term environmental monitoring capacity, helping inform sustainable lake management and responsible regional development.
His work reflects the College of Science’s commitment to global collaboration, impactful research, and the advancement of scientific solutions to complex environmental challenges.
Congratulations, Dr. Vodacek, on this outstanding achievement! We wish you all the best!