Experience the Future of AI at Vanderbilt
The College of Connected Computing hosts three AI Showcases each year: end-of-summer, fall, and spring semesters. Every event blends academic rigor with hands-on demos, giving our community a dependable rhythm for sharing progress, networking, and launching new ideas. Whether you attend one showcase or all three, you’ll always find fresh projects and fresh faces.
Watch our AI Showcase Fall 2024 Reel!
Why Should You Attend?
We believe in showcasing the intersection of academic innovation and real-world AI applications. The AI Showcase provides a unique platform where ideas, technology, and people converge to demonstrate the future of artificial intelligence. Whether you're presenting your work or exploring new innovations, this event offers valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and recognition.
Upcoming Event Details
Date & Time: Friday, December 5th, 2025 2:00 PM.
Location: 1400 18th Ave S Building Main Classroom Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN
Key Dates: Project Nomination Deadline: December 1st, 2025 (8 slots left!)
Format:
- Exhibition-style showcase spread across 3-4 sessions
- Each presenter/team has a dedicated 30-minute slot
- Large monitors provided for demonstrations
- Interactive (digital) poster-session-type setting
Prize Pool: 1st Place: $1,000 2nd Place: $500 3rd Place: $200
NOTE: The Summer Showcase does not include the prizes listed above.
Contact Information Email: datascience@vanderbilt.edu
Previous Winners
SPRING 2025 - 1st PLACE
Deaf Lingo is an interactive sign-language learning platform that uses computer vision to analyze a user’s signing in real time, offering instant feedback on hand shape, motion, and speed. By merging accessibility and AI, it bridges the communication gap for deaf and hearing communities alike.
Team Member(s): Lane Burgett
Prize: $1,000
SPRING 2025 - 1st RUNNER-UP
EEG-to-fMRI delivers a scalable AI framework that predicts whole-brain activity from EEG signals, dramatically improving the accessibility and resolution of neuroimaging. The approach unlocks high-fidelity brain mapping without the cost and logistics of traditional fMRI scans.
Team Member(s): Yamin Li
Prize: $500
SPRING 2025 - 2nd RUNNER-UP
MediCheck is an AI-powered personal medication advisor that learns user habits to tailor dosage reminders, flag missed doses, and detect potential drug interactions—bringing smart, proactive support straight to the pillbox.
Team Member(s): Jimmy B.; Haoran Qin
Prize: $200
FALL 2024 - 1st PLACE
First Author Stephen Chong Zhao developed a framework that integrates human behavioral embeddings and neural data to align with cognitive processes, advancing our understanding of neural processes through innovative AI applications in brain imaging analysis.
Team Member(s): Stephen Chong Zhao
Prize: $1,000
FALL 2024 - Runner Up
Team Member(s):
- Project Lead: Umang Chaudhry
- Principal Investigator: Dr. JB Ruhl
- Project Manager: Isabella Urquia
- Contributors: Ethan Thorpe, Mariah Caballero, Xuanxuan Chen, Aparna Lakshmi, Harmony Wang
Prize: $500
FALL 2024 - Second Runner Up
Team Member(s):
- Project Lead: Thomas Li
- Principal Investigators: Bennett Landman, Daniel Fabbri
Prize: $200
SPRING 2024 - 1st PLACE
This team pioneered biochemical research through AI innovation. The team utilized equivariant graph neural networks and score-based diffusion models to model water molecule distributions around protein surfaces, presenting significant implications for biochemical research.
Team Member(s): Xiaohan Kuang, Yunchao Liu, Zhaoqian Su
Prize: $1,000
SPRING 2024 - 3rd PLACE
The Cleft Palate Project developed an AI-driven tool that analyzes speech patterns to provide valuable feedback for speech therapy techniques, supporting individuals with speech difficulties.
FALL 2023 - 1st PLACE
Created by Liv Lockwood, this exceptional project bridges communication gaps with artificial intelligence, making sign language more accessible through innovative AI technology.
Team Member(s): Liv Lockwood
Prize: $1,000
FALL 2023 - 2ND PLACE
AI for All explores a language model understanding social justice, showcasing the potential of AI in societal applications.
Team Member(s): Shalini Thinakaran
NarrativeNet AI presents an innovative approach to unraveling social networks through narratives.
Event Format
Interactive Exhibition-Style Showcase
The AI Showcase adopts a dynamic, exhibition-style format designed to maximize interaction and engagement. Here's what to expect:
Setup & Space
- 8-10 presentation stations spread across our spacious venue
- Each station equipped with a large monitor and cocktail-style table
- Open floor plan allowing free movement between presentations
Presentation Style
- Interactive demonstrations at each station
- Casual, conversational atmosphere
- Hands-on experience with AI solutions
- Small group discussions and Q&A opportunities
Time Structure
- Each presenter maintains their station throughout their 30-minute session
- Multiple short presentations to rotating groups of attendees
- Flexible format allowing visitors to:
- Try out AI applications firsthand
- Engage in direct conversations with creators
- Move freely between projects at their own pace
Think of it as a tech open house where you can explore various AI innovations at your own pace, interact directly with the creators, and experience the projects firsthand. This format encourages meaningful connections and in-depth understanding of each project.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of AI
Whether you're a student ready to showcase your innovative AI project or an attendee eager to explore the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, the AI Showcase offers something for everyone. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of Vanderbilt's thriving AI community. Come celebrate innovation, forge connections, and witness firsthand how our students are transforming ideas into impactful solutions.
Ready to participate? Register now for the AI Showcase.
For questions or additional information, reach out to us at datascience@vanderbilt.edu.