Dr. Sohui Lee, this year’s Data Storytelling workshop leader! At CSUCI, Dr. Lee is the Associate Professor and Faculty Director of the Writing & Multiliteracy Center. When asked about her motivation for participating in this event, Dr. Lee passionately expressed her dedication to guiding students in understanding the intricacies of data visualizations. To her, it’s not just about extracting insights from data; it’s about appreciating the art of presenting information as a unique form of communication.

Beyond her academic roles, Dr. Lee has been a valued member of the CSUCI faculty since 2015. Her creative roots trace back to high school and undergraduate days when she cultivated a love for drawing and painting, forming the foundation of her keen interest in visual design. Driven by this passion, she finds joy in exploring art museums whenever she visits a city.

Dr. Kristin Jordan, this year’s Tableau workshop leader! At CSU Channel Islands, she holds dual roles as a Sociology lecturer and a Data Scientist for Institutional Research. With a passion for working with data, Dr. Jordan excels in crafting effective data visualizations!  To her, Plot-A-Thon is more than just a campus event; it’s a vibrant space where students can delve into captivating datasets, acquire valuable and sought-after data visualization skills, and expand their toolkit of expertise. Beyond her professional life, she loves to travel to visit family and friends in other states and countries. In her spare time, she loves to read, craft, and have board game nights with friends. 

Dr. Scott Feister, this year’s Python workshop leader! Dr. Feister specializes in scientific computing, using computers to solve scientific challenges of the 21st century. This specialty is at the intersection of computer science, mathematics, and the natural sciences. In his research, Scott creates data systems and electronic devices for scientific laboratories, performs supercomputer simulations of physical processes, and analyzes large experimental datasets. His conception of teaching is to motivate students to learn, give them access to knowledge, and work with them to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

Dr. Isaac Quinanilla Salinas, this year’s R workshop leader! Dr. Salinas, PhD in Applied Statistics from UC Riverside, joined CSU Channel Islands’ Mathematics Department in Fall 2022. Before his doctoral research, he earned an MPH from SDSU and a BS in Biology from CSU Monterey Bay. His research focuses on developing statistical models to understand the association between survival and longitudinal outcomes, with a dissertation on “Multilevel Time-Varying Joint Models for Longitudinal and Survival Outcomes.” He collaborates with researchers in Public Health, Psychology, Biology, GIS, and Education.

Mr. Daniel Lenz, this year’s Faculty Fellow Lead! Mr. Lenz is a valued member of the CSU Channel Islands community who serves as the Assistant Director and Lecturer for the Writing & Multiliteracy Center! Mr. Lenz’s commitment to contributing to the Plot-A-Thon competition is driven by his conviction that this endeavor presents students with an equally demanding challenge: the combination of data analysis and the art of storytelling through data. He views the vital importance of cultivating individuals who possess the expertise to work with data and communicate it effectively in our world. On a more personal note, during his leisure time, he enjoys hobbies such as hiking, botany exploration, gardening, and indulging in the world of literature. 

Dr. Yeawon Yoo, one of this year’s Faculty Fellows! At CSU Channel Islands, Dr. Yoo is the Assistant Professor of Operations! Dr. Yoo possesses a profound passion for Python, a widely acclaimed and contemporary programming language. She eagerly extends her expertise to assist others in navigating its complexities. Her journey with Python had its share of initial challenges during her early programming days, yet those challenges fueled her desire to share a sense of accomplishment with the Plot-A-Thon participants, enabling them to unlock new opportunities in the job market. Her journey has taken her from the West Coast to the East Coast, starting in Tempe, Arizona, then to Ithaca, New York, and Ellicott City, Maryland, and Boston, MA.  

Let her know if you notice any commonalities among these places! 

Ms. Nancy Chen, one of this year’s Faculty Fellows! At CSU Channel Islands, she holds the esteemed role of an Associate Professor of Communication. Professor Chen is eager to empower students by developing their data visualization skills that will enhance their career prospects. Beyond her professional career, she has a remarkable personal journey, having spent a decade or more living in each of the following countries: Taiwan, Australia, and the United States! This rich and diverse cultural experience has greatly contributed to her unique perspective and global awareness.  

Dr. Kevin Hayakawa, one of this year’s Faculty Fellows!  Dr. Hayakawa earned his bachelor’s degrees in physics and Astrophysics from UC Berkeley, followed by a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics from UCLA. At CSUCI, he lectures in the Physics department. In his own research, Professor Hayakawa utilizes Python to visually represent the orbits of planets, asteroids, and comets around stars. His motivation to participate in this event stems from a conviction that data analysis and visualization skills are integral for today’s college graduates, often underrepresented in many academic programs on campus. He recognizes the competitive job market and believes that extracurricular opportunities like Plot-A-Thon play a pivotal role in enhancing employability. Outside of the office, he is passionate about advocating for issues facing the Asian American and LGBTQIA+ communities and loves to chase solar eclipses around the world! 

Ms. Catherine Paolillo, one of this year’s event judges! Ms. Paolillo is CSU Channel Island’s very own Outreach and Engagement Librarian! As a recent addition to the CSUCI library team, Catherine Paolillo recognized the Plot-A-Thon event as an excellent opportunity to foster connections with both students and faculty across the campus. Beyond her official role, she harbors a deep-seated personal and professional interest in the realms of digital humanities and data visualization, underpinned by her rich background in visual arts. She viewed this as a great way to implement her own expertise and passions within the event! Outside her professional occupations, Catherine Paolillo grows to a diverse array of hot peppers, crafting her own signature hot sauces. In addition to her culinary adventures, she has a love for baking and creating dishes in the comfort of her own kitchen. Welcome to CI, Catherine Paolillo!

Dr. Daniel Sandavol, one of this year’s event judges! His impressive background in Sociology at CSU Channel Islands is matched by his role as a data analyst, highlighting his deep understanding of the value of data literacy. His passion for Plot-A-Thon is rooted in its potential to enlighten students about the power of data. Dr. Sandoval’s dedication extends beyond academia as he currently serves as the president of the Santa Paula Unified School Board! In his personal life, he and his family share a love for Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney fandoms! 

Ms. Austin Waters, one of this year’s event judges! Austin Waters holds the role of Student Services Librarian at the University at Buffalo Law School. With a penchant for data visualization within her own scholarly pursuits, Austin loves to see students’ growing fascination with the applications of data, making the Plot-A-Thon event a particularly appealing platform for this purpose. Beyond her professional life, she is a dedicated non-professional figure skater who thrives in the realm of skating. Her passion extends beyond the ice rink, as she’s also an avid horror movie viewer. So much so that she’s even created a spreadsheet to keep track of them. 

Ms. Nicole Amato, this year’s event judge! Nicole Amato holds the position of Assistant Professor of Literacy Education at CSUCI! Ms. Amato brings a dynamic spirit to her work, always eager to transcend the boundaries of her discipline and expertise. With a background as a former high school English teacher and now a qualitative researcher in the social sciences, her passion lies in visual literacies and data visualization. In her leisure time, she immerses herself in the captivating world of comics and graphic novels. Whenever she explores a new city, her first destinations are always bookstores and libraries. Nicole recently moved to California in August, bidding farewell to Iowa City, Iowa. As she embarks on her Californian journey, she’s open to any recommendations on delectable cuisine and captivating sights. Welcome Professor Amato!

Dr. Sohui Lee, this year’s Data Storytelling workshop leader, Chair of the Plot-A-Thon Planning Committee, and Digital Literacy Coordinator! At CSUCI, Dr. Lee is the Associate Professor and Faculty Director of the Writing & Multiliteracy Center. When asked about her motivation for participating in this event, Dr. Lee passionately expressed her dedication to guiding students in understanding the intricacies of data visualizations. To her, it’s not just about extracting insights from data; it’s about appreciating the art of presenting information as a unique form of communication.

Beyond her academic roles, Dr. Lee has been a valued member of the CSUCI faculty since 2015. Her creative roots trace back to high school and undergraduate days when she cultivated a love for drawing and painting, forming the foundation of her keen interest in visual design. Driven by this passion, she finds joy in exploring art museums whenever she visits a city.

Dr. Ekin Pehlivan, this year’s CI Solution Coordinator for the Plot-A-Thon. Dr. Pehlivan has held the position of Assistant Professor of Marketing at the Martin V. Smith School of Business and Economics at CSUCI since 2014. Her academic journey, culminating in a Ph.D. in Business with a Marketing specialization from Bentley University, highlighted the interdisciplinary aspects of her field, inspiring a commitment to lifelong learning and teaching. Covering diverse topics within Marketing and Management, Dr. Pehlivan structures her courses around the central theme of ‘Problem-solving through analytical and critical thinking and logical argumentation’. This approach underscores her dedication to fostering a deep understanding of these disciplines and equipping students with essential skills for real-world challenges.