News and Media

Ringling College’s new Artificial Intelligence Undergraduate Certificate program is the first of its kind at an art and design college. Provided By Ringling College

For over 85 years, Ringling College of Art and Design has cultivated the creative spirit in students from around the globe. The private, not-for-profit fully accredited college offers the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 11 disciplines and the Bachelor of Arts in two. The College’s rigorous curriculum employs the studio model of teaching and immediately engages students through a comprehensive, first-year program that is both specific to the major of study and focused on the liberal arts. The Ringling College teaching model ultimately shapes students into highly employable and globally aware artists and designers.

Link to official article here: heraldtribune.com
Written by: Ringling College communications
Published on May 7, 2024

 

Ringling College of Art and Design launches AI undergraduate certificate program

 

Ringling College of Art and Design is launching a new Artificial Intelligence Undergraduate Certificate program, the first of its kind at an art and design college.

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex impact of AI on creative industries of all kinds. While AI can provide powerful creative tools, the technology has been developed using methods that raise serious moral and legal concerns. Ringling College has designed a program that prepares students for careers merging AI with art, design, and creativity in a responsible and ethical manner.

“AI is scary, exciting, revolutionary, and sometimes feels like an existential threat to creators of all kinds. At Ringling College, we are committed to innovation and providing our students with the tools they need to thrive in constantly evolving creative professions,” said Rick Dakan, AI coordinator at Ringling College. “The AI Undergraduate Certificate program is a proactive response to the rapid technological changes reshaping the creative landscape.”

The certificate program is available as an option to all Ringling College students pursuing studies in 13 different majors. The three-course program covers fundamental AI and machine learning principles, their application in creative contexts, and the ethical, societal, and cultural implications of AI in art and design. Through hands-on experience with AI tools and a focus on responsible integration of AI in creative practices, students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to tackle real-world challenges and succeed in AI-driven creative industries.

“Creativity is the heart of the future,” Ringling College President Larry R. Thompson said. “All that creativity encompasses – imagination, design thinking, emotional intelligence, and a holistic perspective – will fuel our future economy, and society. Therefore, it’s our responsibility as an institution of higher and creative learning to teach our students how to responsibly leverage this new tool to their advantage; much in the same way as we did several years ago when the computer was introduced to art and design and became the new paintbrush.”

Upon completion of the program, students will have a portfolio showcasing their ability to innovatively apply AI in their creative work. This program will add another credential to their resume, positioning these students as competitive candidates in the job market. For more information, visit ringling.edu/minors.

Submitted by Ringling College communications

Nucleus is a Risk Based Vulnerability Management (RBVM) solution that automates vulnerability management processes and workflows, enabling organizations to mitigate vulnerabilities 10 time faster, using a fraction of the resources that it takes to perform these tasks today.

Link to official article here: nucleussec.com/blog. 
Written by: Steve Carter
February 12, 2024

 

How Nucleus Security’s $43M Series B Funding Powers Enterprise Risk-Based Vulnerability Management Innovation

 

We at Nucleus Security are thrilled to share our journey and vision following our recent $43 million Series B funding round.

This investment, led by Arthur Ventures and Lead Edge Capital, is a testament to our commitment to leading the charge in vulnerability management innovation and our dedication to protecting digital infrastructures worldwide.

Read the full press release here. 

 

A Deep Dive into Our Government Collaboration

Our roots are deeply embedded in solving the complex issues faced by government agencies.

As such, our partnership with In-Q-Tel (IQT), the not-for-profit strategic investor for the U.S. national security community and its allies, who also joined the Series B round as a new investor and partner, is a cornerstone of our strategic direction.

This collaboration not only brings us closer to the cutting-edge needs of the national security community but also enables us to tailor our solutions to the unique challenges faced by government agencies and nuanced requirements of government organizations.

Our alliance with In-Q-Tel (IQT) is built on a mutual understanding of the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive data against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Explore Unified Vulnerability Management Built for the Federal Government

 

Innovation at the Core of Our Technology Strategy 

From day one, our mission has been clear: to tackle the toughest cybersecurity challenges out there. It’s been a thrilling adventure, filled with ups and downs, but always driven by our passion for making the digital world a safer place. This Series B funding is fueling an aggressive technology roadmap aimed at redefining risk-based vulnerability management.

Here’s a glimpse into the future we’re building: 

 

Elevating Risk-Based Vulnerability Management

Our enterprise vulnerability management platform is evolving to incorporate more dynamic threat intelligence feeds, offering real-time insights into the threat landscape. This capability allows us to provide more contextual risk assessments, enabling security teams to prioritize their responses based on the most current and relevant information.

Watch Now: How to Operationalize Vulnerability Threat Intelligence. 

 

Streamlining Cross-Functional Collaboration 

Recognizing the critical role of collaboration in effective cybersecurity and vulnerability management programs, we’re enhancing our platform and our integrations to facilitate seamless interaction between IT, security, and development teams. Our goal is to streamline the vulnerability management process, making it more efficient and effective by integrating automated workflows and collaboration tools.

Watch Now: How to Automate and Streamline Vulnerability Management Processes. 

 

The Vision for a Unified Vulnerability Management Platform 

Looking ahead, we’re focused on consolidating disparate cybersecurity tools and data source in a unified vulnerability management platform. This “single pane of glass” approach is designed to give decision-makers a holistic view of their organization’s security posture, enabling more informed strategic decisions.

Join Us: Visualizing Vulnerability Management: What Does a Single Pane of Glass Really Look Like?

 

Gearing Up for Growth 

All this innovation is fantastic, but we also know that growth is key. We’re thrilled to share that we’ve seen our enterprise customer base more that double recently. This funding round is our ticket to scaling up our team and capabilities to keep that momentum going. We’re not just planning to stay ahead of the curve; we’re aiming to redefine it.

 

What’s Next? 

So, what does all this mean for you? If you’re grappling with the complexity of cyber threats and vulnerabilities, we want to be your go-to ally. With out latest funding, top-tier investors, and a commitment to innovation in the risk-based vulnerability management space, we’re all set to help you navigate these challenges with confidence. We can’t wait to show you what’s in store.

 

– Steve Carter, Co-Founder and CEO of Nucleus Security

Consultant Connect, a national consulting firm focusing on strengthening partnerships between economic developers and site selectors, has named EDC of Sarasota County President & CEO Erin Silk, CEcD, one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers of 2024. (Photo/Lori Sax)

Erin, originally from Columbia, MD, has forged a successful career in economic development with a diverse background in international logistics and business management. Her professional journey commenced at a Baltimore manufacturing headquarters, where she managed international shipping logistics and oversaw large national accounts.

Following a family tradition, Erin became the fourth generation to relocate to Sarasota County, where, since 2015, she has passionately championed economic development initiatives.

She first joined the EDC in 2019 as Director, Business Development Services. She has since then worked her way through the ranks, from Vice President, Business Development Services, Chief Operating Officer, and then President & CEO. Each of her roles has better prepared her for the next.

Under Erin’s leadership, the EDC has effectively managed a robust pipeline of 75 diverse company expansions and relocations, attracting substantial new capital investments in Sarasota County. With $13.4 million in new capital investment made by businesses supported by the EDC during 2023 and additional projects in various stages, nearing establishment over through 2027. These projects are projected to exceed $50 million in investment in the coming years. Through her innovative approach, the organization has spearheaded groundbreaking programs that are reshaping the economic landscape of Sarasota County, such as CreateSRQ – a national campaign focused on branding Sarasota County as the chosen destination for creative industries.

Erin’s passion for economic development shines through her exceptional wealth of knowledge and the example with which she leads her team.

According to Consultant Connect’s website, the Top 50 Economic Developer Award by Consultant Connect is a prestigious recognition that celebrates the outstanding achievements of economic developers across North America. This accolade honors professionals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and effectiveness in driving economic growth and prosperity in their communities. Economic developers play a vital role in fostering business expansion, job creation, and overall economic vitality. The Top 50 Economic Developer Award acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to their regions by implementing strategic initiatives, forging partnerships, and leveraging resources to stimulate economic development.

Through their vision, leadership, and collaborative efforts, awardees have successfully attracted investments, supported local businesses, and enhanced the competitiveness of their communities in the global marketplace. Consultant Connect’s recognition highlights the importance of economic development efforts in fueling sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for residents. Winners of the Top 50 Economic Developer Award serve as exemplars of excellence in the field, inspiring others to emulate their success and drive positive change in their respective regions.

The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is a team of engaged public and private leaders committed to being the catalyst for a sustainable, globally competitive, vibrant economy. Their mission is to grow, diversify, and sustain the economy of Sarasota County.