The Chancellor’s STEM Speaker Series brings a variety of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) speakers to West Virginia’s capitol city of Charleston several times annually. The goal is to promote the importance of research and while also providing access to renowned scientists who the general public may not otherwise have the opportunity to meet.

For more information on past speakers, please visit our archive.

Upcoming Events

Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman
Cognitive Scientist and Humanistic Psychologist, Founder, Center for Human Potential & Host: The Psychology Podcast

Monday, April 15 at 6 p.m.
West Virginia Culture Center in Charleston

Renowned humanistic psychologist, Scott Barry Kaufman, explores the depths of human potential by challenging traditional metrics of success. Using his research, knowledge of the science, and enthusiasm, Kaufman helps all kinds of minds live a more creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized life. His early educational experiences made him realize the deep reservoir of untapped potential of students, including bright and creative children who have been diagnosed with a learning disability. Today, Kaufman shares the science of thriving at work and growing from setback as well as how to foster self-actualization and creativity in the workplace and in education.

Kaufman was selected as one of “The Top 20 Psychologists 40 & Under” by The Best Schools in 2020. He has also been recognized as one of “50 groundbreaking scientists who are changing the way we see the world” by Business Insider. Kaufman is a regular contributor to The Atlantic and Scientific American, sharing insights into intelligence, creativity, personality, and well-being. Kaufman hosts, “The Psychology Podcast,” which has received over 20 million downloads and was included in Business Insider’s list of “9 podcasts that will change how you think about human behavior.”

Challenging stereotypes, Kaufman determined his own path that led him from special-ed to scientist. He received a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Yale University, and an MPhil in experimental psychology from the University of Cambridge under a Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Kaufman is a flow and self actualization coach, in which he personally helps people get more engaged in their work and reach their full potential. He has shared his ideas all over the world, including for major groups at LEGO, Vogue, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the Creativity World Forum.