Dr. Leo Porter serves as a Professor of Computer Science at UC San Diego, where he co-founded the Computing Education Research Laboratory focused on understanding how students learn computing and creating inclusive learning environments. His journey includes service as a surface warfare officer in the U.S. Navy's Pacific fleet and Operation Iraqi Freedom before earning his M.S. and Ph.D. in computer science from UC San Diego in 2007. His groundbreaking research in computer science education, particularly on Peer Instruction and active learning pedagogies, has earned numerous accolades, including Best Paper Awards at SIGCSE and the International Computing Education Research Conference. Recently, he co-authored "Learn AI-Assisted Python Programming" with Daniel Zingaro, addressing the integration of AI tools in programming education. His research spans computer architecture, educational technology, and student learning assessment, with particular emphasis on using data-driven approaches to predict student outcomes and identify critical course concepts. As a Distinguished Member of the ACM, he has influenced over 500,000 learners through popular Coursera and edX courses while maintaining active research in both computer science education and computer architecture.

Christine Alvarado serves as Associate Teaching Professor in Computer Science and Engineering at UC San Diego and Associate Dean for the Division of Undergraduate Education. Her distinguished career combines technical expertise with a passionate commitment to diversifying computer science education. After earning her Ph.D. from MIT in 2004, she began her academic career at Harvey Mudd College before joining UCSD in 2012. Her innovative work includes founding the CSE Early Research Scholars Program, which has engaged over 339 early undergraduates in computing research, with significant participation from women, non-binary students, and underrepresented racial groups

Mia Minnes is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Computer Science and Engineering Department at the University of California, San Diego. With a strong background in mathematics and computer science, she specializes in the theory of computation, mathematical logic, and algorithmic randomness. Dr. Minnes has developed curricula focused on algorithms, problem-solving, and the intersection of mathematics and computer science, supported by several grants from the National Science Foundation. She earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics from Cornell University in 2008, along with Master's degrees in both Computer Science and Mathematics, and Bachelor's degrees in Mathematics and Engineering as well as Philosophy from Queen's University.Prior to her current role, she held postdoctoral positions at MIT and UC San Diego. Since joining UC San Diego in 2014, she has taught a variety of courses ranging from introductory classes to advanced seminars and has been recognized for her teaching excellence with awards such as the Best Teacher award in 2013-2014. Her commitment to education extends to mentoring students and developing programs that bridge academic knowledge with industry experience, fostering a strong foundation for students in STEM fields.