Dr. Cadavious Jones Co-Leads Alabama State University Blockchain Think Tank

Purpose of the ASU Blockchain Think Tank

The ASU Blockchain Think Tank, co-led by Dr. Cadavious Jones and Professor Ashley C. Thomas, is a groundbreaking initiative funded by the 2021 Innovation Grant Recipient on behalf of Morgan State University's Center for the Study of Blockchain and Financial Technology. This project aims to enhance student awareness and engagement with blockchain and financial technology (FinTech) through an advisory committee, module training, think tank sessions, and the creation of blockchain and cryptocurrency models. Key objectives include:

• Assessing students’ current awareness of blockchain and FinTech.

• Building interdisciplinary relationships to foster innovative technologies.

• Partnering with domestic and global businesses, start-ups, and investors.

• Promoting leadership in blockchain and FinTech innovation.

• Extending student knowledge beyond cryptocurrencies to model creation.

• Utilizing blockchain and FinTech to solve problems and address economic inequities.

• Encouraging discussions about blockchain and FinTech among students.

Innovation and Engagement

The think tank will feature several weeks of guest speakers and culminate in the creation of blockchain and cryptocurrency models by students. This initiative transcends basic awareness and ownership of cryptocurrency, guiding students through the model creation process, thus providing insight into FinTech innovation and the future of financial services.

Educational Modules and Think Tank Sessions

Prior to each think tank session, students will engage with faculty-generated instructional videos, glossaries, and assessments stored on a learning management system like Blackboard. These resources will increase awareness and prepare students for the think tank sessions. Although the think tank will be live-streamed, participation will be limited to students selected through an application process. The advisory committee will consist of members from diverse fields, ensuring a holistic learning experience. By the end of the project, students will have created blockchain and cryptocurrency models for ASU.

Impact on Alabama State University

The think tank project aims to deliver several benefits for Alabama State University:

• Fostering partnerships for internships and entrepreneurial endeavors.

• Supporting business and communication students and faculty in creating awareness materials.

• Promoting the university in the community and to prospective students.

• Enhancing financial, digital, and media literacy, and communication skills.

• Providing recruitment and enrollment support by showcasing economic advancements and innovation.

• Raising awareness and engagement with the Small Business Development Center.

• Exposing students to a network of HBCUs and other students engaged in blockchain and FinTech education.

• Establishing ASU as a regional leader in blockchain and FinTech student awareness and engagement.

Educational Outcomes

Through this project, students will achieve the following outcomes:

• Explain what FinTech is and its transformative impact on finance.

• Recognize and characterize the latest FinTech trends.

• Identify and describe elements driving technological innovation.

• Understand emerging business models in finance, banking, insurance, wealth management, and more.

• Create blockchain and cryptocurrency models with utility and problem-solving capabilities.

• Analyze the socio-economic impact of blockchain and FinTech.

Dr. Cadavious Jones' leadership in the ASU Blockchain Think Tank exemplifies his commitment to advancing student knowledge and fostering innovative technological solutions to modern financial challenges.

For more information, visit ASU Blockchain Think Tank.