Jamie L. Thompson

Dr. Jamie L. Thompson is an experienced educator and instructional designer dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning through innovative strategies and emerging technologies. As the Assistant Director of Teaching Excellence at Texas A&M University's Center for Teaching Excellence, she collaborates with faculty to develop effective curricula, integrate instructional technologies, and improve student engagement. Her research focuses on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), digital accessibility, and generative AI, fostering a supportive, engaging, and collaborative learning environment. With expertise in curriculum development and pedagogical best practices, she works to create adaptable and accessible learning environments that support diverse learners. Dr. Thompson is committed to leveraging technology to enhance instructional effectiveness, empowering educators to implement forward-thinking, research-based approaches. Through her leadership, she advances faculty development initiatives that foster innovation and improve learning outcomes in higher education.

Rachel McNeal

Rachel is a third year Ph.D. student in the Department of Entomology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. She received her bachelor’s degree in Forensic and Investigative Sciences at Texas A&M University while pursuing a double major in entomology. In her undergraduate education, Rachel performed field work in Trinidad and Tobago on habitat preference of forensically relevant flies, presenting this research at the North American Forensic Entomology Association meeting. Rachel’s current work focuses on how microbes impact decomposer flies under different thermal stress levels. She also works with her lab to give workshops to law enforcement agencies on how to properly collect entomological evidence during investigation.

Thomas F. Hallmark

Thomas F. Hallmark brings over three decades of nuclear industry experience to his doctoral studies in Curriculum and Instruction at Texas A&M University, where he focuses on Engineering and STEM Education. His research explores AI integration in these fields, particularly in understanding how adaptive learning platforms can enhance student efficacy. Combining his legal background, MBA, and industry expertise, he develops innovative STEM curricula that integrate Artificial Intelligence into the classroom. As a Persian Gulf War veteran, Thomas is dedicated to supporting fellow veterans' transitions to civilian careers through educational initiatives. He is passionate about volunteering with the Academy for Future Faculty and embraces the opportunity to mentor the next generation of leaders by sharing his knowledge in STEM education and AI integration. Thomas is pursuing his Ph.D. degree in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture. His current projects include studying adaptive learning platforms, AI curriculum integration, and cross-cultural engineering education between the United States and the DACH Region of Europe. He aims to define the standards in curriculum and instruction to advance artificial intelligence in global educational practices.