Michael Boyce

I am originally from Connecticut and come from a bi-racial family (my mother is Puerto Rican and my father is Irish. I have always been very passionate about my Latin culture, specifically because of the importance placed on family, food, and music. I first came upon La Unidad Latina as I was looking for a group to become involved with that would accept me as a non-spanish speaking latino. My family also instilled in me a strong sense of professionalism and educational achievement which I firmly believe La Unidad Latina practices and advocates for on a daily basis. I pledged in fall 2004 and we became the first latino-based fraternity to establish in the state of Georgia. I am also the only Hermano to date pledge that uses a wheelchair. Educationally my interests have always been to find innovative ways to get people and technology working together. My Bachelors is in Science, Technology, and Culture where I focused on 3D Environments and how environment can change the game-playing experience.

For my Masters which is in Human-Computer Interaction, I focused around developing technology for individuals with disabilities. My Master’s project which consisted of a brain-computer wheelchair driving interface, was featured on “Dean of Invention” a program hosted by Segway inventor Dean Kamen. After two degrees at Georgia Tech I knew I needed to branch out my knowledge. I am currently doing my doctorate in Applied Experimental / Human Factors Psychology which is focused around technology and disability, specifically dealing with combat-returnees and integrating them back into society using technology.

Professionally I am also working for the Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate in their Human Factors division as a Research Scientist. I focus on accessibility as it applies to processes and procedures related to DHS technology. My current areas of interest are emergency preparedness planning, cybersecurity, and human-systems integration. My dissertation will be a joint effort between UCF and the DHS on a topic related to disability.

Personally I love to dance, stroll, or do anything else that allows me to express creativity.