Instrument

🚨 NEW LOCATION: Instrument (3529 N Williams Ave. Portland, OR) 🚨

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring experts in the field of education as they delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the learning environment.

Our panelists will share their insights and experiences on integrating AI into educational settings, discussing both the challenges and opportunities that come with it.

Panel Isabel Bo-Linn is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at Portland State University (PSU). As a designer, Isabel specializes in product, print, and digital design for non-profit organizations and corporations. She teaches digital and print media at PSU, including AI and Design, a special topics course that explores topics related to the implementation, impact, ethics, and collaborative opportunities of AI and the creative arts. Her other academic research is varied and includes investigations into visual essays, design education, and speculative, interactive systems.

Chris Brida is the Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Pathways for Portland Public Schools, where he leads innovative initiatives to bridge education and industry through strategic partnerships and transformative programming. Focusing on leveraging technology to enhance workforce development and educational outcomes, Chris has implemented a district-wide CTE strategic plan and launched efforts such as a first-of-its-kind CTE student council. As a doctoral student at the University of Kentucky, his research explores ecosystem models for education partnerships, emphasizing scalable and technology-driven solutions. The confluence of his professional role and doctoral work has led to a focus on the role of the broader AI ecosystem in the Metro region and its impact on CTE programs.

Marty Sampson is a National Board Certified teacher with more than 30 years of experience teaching English in public high schools. For the last 17 years she has specialized in Advanced Placement AP English courses, specifically AP Language and Composition, AP Seminar, and AP Research, in the Evergreen School District in Vancouver, Washington; these AP courses focus on the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills necessary for college and career readiness, as well as civic engagement. Marty explores with her students how AI can be leveraged as a tool for research, comprehension, and organization in order to reinforce and support students' learning and career goals. Additionally, Marty's use of AI in her classroom builds much needed critical thinking skills around AI, as it permeates the digital landscapes that students regularly interact with now and will continue to see in the future.

Jon Down, PhD in Strategy, is a Professor of Entrepreneurship & AI at the University of Portland and founder of Gen AI Corp, where he helps companies responsibly leverage AI. Drawing on his research analyzing the growth trajectory of AI, he sees significant risks in the coming of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and advocates for more widespread discussion and engagement in shaping the development of AI. He is currently working on a book chapter on the future of Higher Education with AI.

Our panel will be graciously moderated by Seth Fleischauer. Seth is the President of Banyan Global Learning, which he founded in 2008 after teaching elementary school with NYC Teaching Fellows. With Banyan, Seth delivers meaningful global learning experiences to students worldwide, preparing them for success in an interconnected world. Recognizing the critical role of digital literacy in global education, Seth trains teachers on leveraging AI to enhance both teacher and student wellness. Seth has hosted over a dozen podcast episodes on AI in education through his shows Make It Mindful: Insights for Global Learning and Why Distance Learning? His 15 minutes of digital fame began in 2007 when he became a meme—Google “Sad Mets Fan” to discover his story.

Special thanks to our event sponsor: George Fox University!

Remember that amazing founder you saw on stage a few years ago? Where are they now? We want you to know.

That's why Built Oregon, Pitch Black, PIE, and Vanport Studio are partnering to celebrate Black founders from our programs by learning more about the journeys of our alums since we last saw them on stage — even if that journey no longer involves startups.

Join us for an evening of fireside chats hosted by Stephen Green, founder of Pitch Black and Vanport Studio, as we all get up to date on the latest and greatest from founders in our community.

Graciously hosted by Instrument, a longtime supporter, sponsor, and host for Pitch Black and current home of Vanport Studio.

PLEASE NOTE: Space is limited. Only registered attendees will be admitted.

"411": Ten entrepreneurs will get five minutes to pitch the audience and then three minutes of questions about their idea. After the last pitcher has answered questions from the audience, attendees will then vote for the three (3) winners who will split the prize money equally. When: First pitch will be at 6:00pm with doors opening at 5:30pm and everyone out by 8:00pm Where: Our gracious hosts are the great folks at Instrument. Their amazing HQ is located at the One North development in the heart of inner N/NE Portland on North Williams Ave.

Who: This event is the brainchild of Stephen Green @PDXStepheng, economist, entrepreneur & strong advocate of CHEATING to support small businesses. By day he is the Community Manager for Townsquared where he is engaging area small businesses to support each other and share knowledge. Stephen, along with others in the community have been looking to spread broader narratives about black founders locally. This event wouldn't be possible without the support of some amazing partners; Instrument, Spirit Mountain Community Fund, Silicon Florist, Digital Trends, Built Oregon, ClientJoy, Albina Community Bank, Miller Nash Graham & Dunn LLP, Business For A Better Portland

Why: To connect the region's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem with the increasing number of African-American founders.

Cost: Tickets are $22 with ALL PROCEEDS from ticket sales going directly to the three winners. Bring some extra cash to make sure you leave with some event swag.

Portland’s technology community has much to celebrate; however, when it comes to having an inclusive and diverse industry we must improve. Diversifying our workforce to include all from our community is the right thing to do, and the data shows it benefits us in terms of innovation, team functioning, and bottom line results. We know that greater diversity leads to greater innovation. Tech + Inclusion Community Conversation is an opportunity for companies who have joined the PDC Diversity Pledge and the community to come together. This event is open to those working in the tech sector, to students and prospective tech sector workers, and those interested in the tech industry. The Tech + Inclusion event will help create partnerships that can ultimately lead to hiring and career advancement of women and people of color in Portland’s Tech industry.