International Games Day: Hall of Presenters & Guest Speakers

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Muhsinah Morris, Director of Morehouse in the Metaverse, Morehouse College

What Are You Hiding? Why Open Scholarship Is the Key to Innovation.

Abstract: The future of scholarship will not be built behind paywalls or locked in data silos. As researchers, we must ask ourselves: What are we hiding—and who is left behind when knowledge isn’t shared? In an era defined by XR, AI, and vast digital infrastructures, discovery is moving faster than traditional systems of publication and peer review can keep pace. While peer review remains vital for rigor, it cannot be the only gateway to impact.
As Director of Metaverse Programs at Morehouse College, I have witnessed firsthand how openly publishing data and sharing results accelerates progress. From immersive XR teaching platforms to AI Teaching Assistants and neurodiverse innovation labs, every dataset holds potential beyond its original scope. When made open, these touchpoints fuel interdisciplinary breakthroughs, empower underrepresented voices, and model transparency for future generations.
This talk will challenge barriers to open access and highlight how results-driven, openly shared scholarship creates the conditions for innovation across the AUCC and beyond. The question is not whether we can afford to share openly—it’s whether we can afford not to.

Presenter: Prof. Kimberly Purifoy, Adjunct Professor of English, Morehouse College

Press Start: The Power of the English Major in the Gaming Industry Afrofuturism, Representation, and World-Building

Abstract: Blending personal experience with critical inquiry, this presentation highlights the intersection of English studies and the gaming industry, emphasizing how literary analysis, storytelling, and cultural awareness equip English majors to shape meaningful narratives in games. Drawing on Afrofuturism, it examines how reimagining representation can transform gaming into a space for inclusive and visionary world-building.

Presenter: Oriyomi Kazeem, Indie Developer

Shaping Your Experiences Into Creativity

Abstract: Your experiences in life play a key part in defining how you transmute your creative energy. My experiences in life have shaped the design choices of “Beat Up My Dreams.”

Wishlist on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3683920/Beat_Up_My_Dreams/

Summary: Beat Up My Dreams is a Top Down Beat 'em up focused on player growth visually and narratively. Play as a former stocky martial artist, Rio, who has to fight his negative desires and distractions to realize his self-growth.

Presenters: AUC Esports Student Organizations

Building the AUC Esports Community

Abstract: In this session, students will share their experiences and strategies in establishing esports organizations at their respective colleges. They will discuss the challenges they faced, such as securing administrative support, recruiting members, and finding funding or resources for equipment and events. Additionally, they will explore how they structured their organizations, cultivated a community, and created competitive opportunities for members. By exchanging insights and best practices, the students aim to inspire and guide others who are interested in starting or improving esports programs at their institutions.

Presenters: Levoski Brown, Esports Coach at Morris Brown College, and Students

HBCU Esports Professionals: Educating, Training, and Developing the new age of Esports & Gaming Pro Talent

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Muhsinah Morris, Director, Morehouse Metaverse Programs/Professor

Shaping Tomorrow: How Emerging Technologies and Gaming are Redefining the Future of Humanity

Abstract: In an era where technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, the line between virtual and physical realities continues to blur. This session, “Shaping Tomorrow: How Emerging Technologies and Gaming are Redefining the Future of Humanity,” invites faculty, staff, and students from across the Atlanta University Center to explore the profound impact of current and emerging technologies on the future of human existence. From artificial intelligence to immersive virtual worlds, gaming and tech innovation are no longer just tools of entertainment or productivity—they are the foundations of a new digital frontier shaping how we live, learn, and connect.

Together, we will dive into the revolutionary role of these advancements in redefining education, social interaction, and career landscapes. This session will empower participants to imagine their role in this transformation, examining the intersections of technology, culture, and humanity. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned gamer, you’ll leave with a renewed perspective on how today’s technological developments will define tomorrow’s world—and how we all hold the power to shape it.

Join us for an inspiring and forward-thinking discussion on the potential of technology to rewrite the future of our communities, institutions, and ultimately, the human experience.

Presenter: Patrice Williams, Humanities Librarian, AUC Woodruff Library

Video Games: Digital Humanities

Abstract: Video games offer rich opportunities within digital humanities by merging storytelling, interactivity, and visual art, making them powerful tools for cultural analysis. This presentation explores video games as digital artifacts that reveal societal values, historical perspectives, and identity dynamics. Using interdisciplinary methods like game analysis and digital preservation, scholars can study how games shape and reflect cultural narratives.

Presenter: Bryan Briones, STEM Librarian, AUC Woodruff Library

Visualizing Data: Transforming Information into Insight

Abstract: Data visualization bridges the gap between complex information and audience understanding, translating data into clear, impactful visuals. This presentation explores principles and best practices in data visualization, focusing on how design choices shape perception and improve comprehension.

Presenter: Maroon Tiger Gaming, Kaleb Howard
Presenter: Spelman Esports, Oleisia Johnson

Building the AUC Esports Community

Abstract: In this session, students will share their experiences and strategies in establishing esports organizations at their respective colleges. They will discuss the challenges they faced, such as securing administrative support, recruiting members, and finding funding or resources for equipment and events. Additionally, they will explore how they structured their organizations, cultivated a community, and created competitive opportunities for members. By exchanging insights and best practices, the students aim to inspire and guide others who are interested in starting or improving esports programs at their institutions.

Presenter: Roy Hobbs, Blacksnackz

Leveling Up as a Black Streamer: Tips & Tricks

Abstract: This presentation explores the personal journey of being a part-time streamer, focusing on strategies for boosting viewership, essential tips and tricks, and key considerations for navigating the streaming space. We’ll also discuss effective ways to build meaningful connections with other streamers and creators to foster a supportive community.