A big NCIS welcome to our newest members! Read about them and their fascinating research endeavors here...
Yuma Araki (JAPAN) is a Ph.D. candidate in American Studies at Osaka University, with research intersecting language, culture, and the nuances of social sciences methodologies. Araki’s academic endeavors focus on providing undergraduates with a profound comprehension of American history, underpinned by roles as Lecturer and Teaching Assistant. Recent projects include enriching the academic community at Osaka University by developing curriculum content and fostering a multicultural learning environment. Araki participates in the Global Japanese Studies Program and the Cross-Boundary Innovation Program reflecting a commitment to applying American studies to address global and local challenges, such as Japan's vacant housing crisis. This journey underscores a dedication to American Studies, aiming to bridge cultural gaps through education and research.
Dr Aarnoud Rommens (CANADA) earned a PhD from the Center for the Study of Theory and Criticism at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. Rommens also was a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Liège in the Department of Philosophy and Literature. Rommens’ research interests include a wide breath of topics revolving around art theory, Latin American avant-garde art, visual art, and decolonial/post-colonial studies. Publications include The Art of Joaquin Torres-García: Constructive Universalism and the Inversion of Abstraction from Routledge Press and Antropofagia: Emblematics and the Brazilian Avant-Garde (1920-30s) from Brill press.
Matt Schultz (USA) earned a Master of Science in Information, Archives, and Records Management from the University of Michigan, as well as a Master of Social Science with a concentration in Cyber Criminology from Michigan State University. Schultz’s research has been presented to a wide audience including the Society of American Archivists, the Conference on Preservation of Digital Objects, and the Digital Library Federation Forum.
Dr. Matthew L. P. Ricke (USA) gained their PhD in Higher Education & Student Affairs Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado. Ricke’s research can be found in publication outlets such as the Journal of Student Affairs and the NASPA Knowledge Community Publication. In addition to publications, Ricke has also presented widely on Title IX at academic conferences such as the Education Law Association International Conference, the NASPA Florida Drive-In Conference, and the University of South Florida Title IX Conference.
Dr. Ronald Saltinski (USA) earned a PhD in Science Education/Technology from the University of Michigan. Professionally, Saltinski held various positions in California Public Schools and was a Professor in the College of Education for National University for over 20 years. In addition to teaching Saltinski was part of NASA research teams and received accoladed as part of grant work for various US federal agencies: such as NASA, the Nuclear Defense Agency, and the National Science Foundation.

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