PilotTalks
Storytelling Matters
Stories are our universal language, a way to connect across cultures and generations, to uplift and inspire in even the most tumultuous times, and forge understanding and compassion through our common human experience.
PilotTalks Spring 2025
Our PilotTalks series brings the tradition of storytelling home to The Bluff, inviting all to hear thought-provoking stories of hope, renewal, and transformation from thinkers inside the UP community and beyond. We’re excited to announce our 2025 lineup. We hope you will join us!
Spring 2025 Speakers
Associate Professor of Economics
Ruth Dittrich, PhD
As associate professor of economics at UP, Ruth Dittrich often digs into the economic impact of climate change, using her research to help communities problem-solve their way through the uncertainty of the climate crisis. In her talk, she will share how she launched “MoveUP: Reduce and Reuse,” a new campus initiative to stem the tide of waste that comes along with student move-in and move-out days.
Co-Founder and President, Raiden Science Foundation
Tommy Pham ’09, ’11
Entrepreneurship is second nature to Tommy Pham ’09, ’11, a UP E-scholar, co-founder of a biotech startup, and inventor on over 25 Nike digital patents. But his most important venture is the Raiden Science Foundation, which is aimed at accelerating research and therapies for debilitating rare diseases, such as the one afflicting his young son. His story shows how even in the darkest times there is power in never giving up.
Founder and CEO, Salt & Straw Ice Cream
Kim Malek
Since founding Salt & Straw Ice Cream with her cousin, Tyler Malek, in 2011, CEO Kim Malek has built Salt & Straw from a humble ice cream cart into a fast-growing company that stays true to its core ethos of community support. Kim will share a personal story about how engaging and connecting with others, even in small ways, is a gift that can leave a lasting impact.
Pilot Talks Archive
Spring 2024 PilotTalks
Our Spring 2024 PilotTalks highlight how changing our approach and conceptions to difficult situations can affect positive outcomes, even in the face of obstacles like sadness and uncertainty.
Fall 2023 PilotTalks
The theme of renewal is featured in each of the Fall 2023 PilotTalks. Hear stories about faith, community, childhood dreams, and our continued journey through the universe.
