WIT Trailblazers

Minerva Tantoco

In March 2022 NYU’s McSilver Institute appointed Minerva Tantoco as inaugural Chief AI Officer. McSilver’s founders said “Minerva’s technology expertise, enterprising spirit and passion for social good make her a perfect fit for leading the hub.” Tantoco is also the former Chief Technology Officer of New York City.
Read Minerva Tantoco's bio (McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research)
Read Minerva Tantoco: Renowned Tech Innovator (WIT)

Shelly J. Smith

Smith, runs the LaGuardia Studio, a part of NYU IT Research Technology. The Studio is engaged in 3D printing and scanning for research, medical, and artistic projects. Smith says her current focus came about by exposure to new technology, combining it with her formal fine art and design backgrounds.
Read Shelly J. Smith's bio

Kitty Bridges

Kitty came to  NYU to design the University's primary data center. She is now NYU IT's Senior Advisor on Strategic Initiatives. She has served as the Interim Chief Information Officer, lead the Global Office of Information Security, User & Global Support, Digital Accessibility, Communications, Strategic Planning, and Service Delivery & Management.
Read Kitty Bridges' bio

Jelena Kovačević

Jelena Kovačević became the Dean of the NYU Tandon School of Engineering in August 2018. She is the first woman to head the school since its founding in 1854 as the Brooklyn Collegiate and Polytechnic Institute.
Read Jelena Kovačević's bio

Elza Erkip

Dr. Elza Erkip is an Institute Professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at NYU Tandon School of Engineering. Her research interests are in information theory, communication theory, and wireless communications.
Read Elza Erkip's bio

De Angela L. Duff

De Angela L. Duff is a designer, photographer, web developer, DJ, and podcaster. She’s also an Associate Vice Provost at NYU and an Industry Professor in Integrated Digital Media (IDM) at NYU Tandon School of Engineering in Brooklyn.
Read De Angela L. Duff's bio

Beth Rosenberg

Beth Rosenberg is a faculty member at NYU Tandon School of Engineering’s Integrated Digital Media program. She is also an educator and advocate for students with disabilities. Beth is the Founder/Director of Tech Kids Unlimited, a technology not-for-profit program for special-needs youth.
Read Beth Rosenberg's bio