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American Institutes for Research and the U.S. National Science Foundation launch a new Center Supporting STEM Education Research and practice. Arlington, Va. - The American Institutes for Research (AIR) has launched the Center for STEM Education Research and Translation, a national resource designed to support the development and use of research funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) among PreK-12 STEM education communities. Led by AIR, the Center also partners with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and the University of South Carolina (USC). Together, the organizations will support NSF-funded STEM education researchers and the broader communities engaged in PreK-12 STEM education by: * Identifying and sharing promising research findings to encourage progress toward effective practice and the advancement of science; * Supporting communication and collaboration among current, former, and prospective NSF PreK-12 STEM education researchers; and * Increasing awareness of NSF-funded PreK-12 STEM education research and its contributions to the field. "The Center will bring together researchers and practitioners to ensure that PreK-12 STEM education research progresses to inform effective practice" said Gurjeet (Sonica) Dhillon, AIR senior researcher and principal investigator of the Center. "Our goal is to support a meaningful exchange of information, evidence, and ideas that advances STEM education teaching and learning nationwide." Activities will support national priorities related to the responsible movement of scientific knowledge between and among research and educational practice communities. The Center will provide technical support, host learning opportunities, and disseminate resources that highlight NSF-funded research. About AIR Established in 1946, the American Institutes for Research(R)(AIR(R) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance both domestically and internationally in the areas of health, education, and the workforce. With headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR has offices across the U.S. and abroad. For more information, visit www.air.org. About the National Science Foundation The U.S. National Science Foundation propels the nation forward by advancing fundamental research in all fields of science and engineering. NSF supports research and people by providing facilities, instruments, and funding to support their ingenuity and sustain the U.S. as a global leader in research and innovation. With a fiscal year budget of $8.75 billion, NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 colleges, universities, and institutions. Each year, NSF receives more than 40,000 competitive proposals and makes about 11,000 new awards. Those awards include support for cooperative research with industry, Arctic and Antarctic research and operations, and U.S. participation in international scientific efforts. About SREB The Southern Regional Education Board works with states, districts and schools to improve education at every level, from early childhood through doctoral education and the workforce. An interstate compact and a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization based in Atlanta, SREB was created in 1948 by Southern governors and legislators to advance education and improve the social and economic life of the region. University of South Carolina The University of South Carolina is a globally recognized, high-impact research university committed to a superior student experience and dedicated to innovation in learning, research and community engagement. Founded in 1801, the university is a top-tier Carnegie Foundation research institution offering more than 350 academic degree programs, including distinguished programs in engineering, law, medicine, nursing, public health and the arts. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of 20 locations throughout the state, including the research campus in Columbia. With the nation's top first-year experience among public universities, best public honors college and 60 nationally ranked academic programs - including top-ranked programs in international business - the university is helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and around the world. Media Contact Managing Director, Corporate Communications +1.202.403.6347

Richard Jacik joins the American Institutes for Research as chief technology officer. Richard Jacik Richard Jacik, an expert in systems architecture and digital transformation, has joined the American Institutes for Research (AIR) as chief technology officer to lead the continuous improvement of AIR's technology infrastructure and data systems. "To effectively and efficiently serve our clients and communities, AIR must be able to fully leverage the power of technology and maximize the potential of our internal and external systems," said Jessica Heppen, AIR president and CEO. "Richard comes to AIR with a wealth of experience in helping public- and private-sector clients transform their digital infrastructure to ensure it best meets the needs of those that they serve." Before joining AIR, Jacik was chief digital officer for Brillient, where he helped lead digital transformation efforts for federal government agencies and commercial clients. He has worked in information technology (IT) and the digital space for more than 25 years and has deep expertise in designing, building, and managing complex IT programs. He has worked with multiple federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. In his new role, Jacik oversees AIR's internal information technology and corporate business systems, as well as technology solutions for the organization's external clients, including federal and state agencies, philanthropies and non-profit organizations, and business and industry. He is a member of AIR's Executive Leadership Team. "Applying artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to improve access to information, services, and resources supports the only objective worth pursuing - helping people live better lives," said Jacik, who joined AIR on Oct. 20. "I am inspired by AIR's mission and look forward to collaborating with their incredible team to find solutions for our staff, our clients, and everyone that our work touches." Jacik received a Bachelor of Science in mathematics and computer science from Kent State University and a master's in computer science and graduate certificate in software engineering from George Mason University (GMU). Earlier this year, Jacik was inaugurated into the GMU College of Engineering and Computing Academy of Excellence, which honors those who have made considerable contributions to the field of engineering or computing throughout their careers. He is also Industry Chair of GMU's AI-in-Gov Council and chair of the university's Computer Science External Advisory Board. About AIR Established in 1946, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance both domestically and internationally in the areas of education, health, and the workforce. With headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR has offices across the U.S. and abroad. For more information, visit www.air.org.

Arlington, Va., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Experts from the American Institutes for Research (AIR) will share evidence and insights on health care research—ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) in health care administration to the use of care management services by people with Alzheimer’s disease—at the AcademyHealth 2025 Annual Research Meeting, being held June 7-10 in Minneapolis. AcademyHealth is one of the nation’s largest professional and learning organizations for health researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders. The annual research meeting gathers thousands of experts to discuss the latest evidence, methods, and insights related to health care costs, quality, and access, among other issues. AIR is one of the sponsors of this year’s annual research meeting. AIR experts will share evidence on a wide range of topics, including disparities in Medicare and Medicaid usage and outcomes; telehealth use during and after the COVID-19 pandemic; AI use in healthcare administration; and more. Additionally, Kelly Devers, vice president and deputy director of AIR’s Health Division, will participate in a “meet the expert” breakfast for AcademyHealth student members on Monday, June 9