IACT: Creativity for Tomorrow

How do we re-engineer public transportation to be more inclusive? IACT certificate students Alexandra Damiani, Lewis Forman and Quinton Thomas are colliding their purposes to redesign public transportation for people with autism.

Introducing: Team Inclusion

Alexandra Damiani is a senior communications media production major and uses her IACT certificate experience to highlight the empathy in her videography work. Her purpose to establish more human-centered connections through social media has applications in all of her pursuits, from Flyer Radio to UD Monologues.

Lewis Forman is a senior mechanical engineering major with a concentration in aerospace engineering. He strives to use his IACT certificate to design new technologies with people who have low-functioning autism in mind. His purpose to innovate the everyday lifestyles of individuals with autism is reflected in his work to develop immersive caretaking experiences.

Quinton Thomas is a mechanical engineering major and explores his passions in photography and sustainability through his IACT experience. His purpose to develop sustainable environmental solutions combines his love of nature with his concern for human rights.

Together, the team is combining transportation solutions, environmental awareness, and human connection to create more access and comfort for people with autism and their families while travelling through airports.

At the Institute of Applied Creativity for Transformation (IACT) at ArtStreet, we seek to empower a forward-thinking 21st century student with the ability to confidently develop the imaginative and creative skills necessary to excel and impact today’s innovative and global workforce regardless of degree focus. IACT is home to the nation’s first undergraduate certificate in Applied Creativity for Transformation. Open to undergraduate students of any major, the certificate is a first step in achieving the University of Dayton’s vision of innovation, applied creativity, entrepreneurship and community engagement for the common good.

The IACT curriculum introduces students to the creative competencies that today’s job market demands — critical perspective, complex problem solving and collaboration with others — while applying those same skills to the students’ diverse disciplines of study. Our mindset of applied creativity stems from transdisciplinary learning (the unity of intellectual frameworks beyond the disciplinary perspectives) and a humanity-centered approach, harnessing imagination and vision to effectively implement unexpected, innovative ideas that can change the world. For more information about IACT at ArtStreet, call 937-229-5101 or visit go.udayton.edu/iact.

Written by Amy Pompilio ‘19

Video produced by Alexandra Damiani '18