The Princeton University Office of Community and Regional Affairs is pleased to share the July edition of Regional Roar, a monthly newsletter for regional thought leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Regional Roar offers updates about forward-looking perspectives, innovation, and collaborative partnerships that support the growth and vitality of our region.

This month we are pleased to highlight exciting announcements from the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, news about the NJ AI Hub, and a story about a Hamilton-based artist featured at Princeton University Art Museum.

We are always pleased to hear from you, and invite you to forward this information to others who would be interested in these updates. Is there an event, research, or activity at Princeton University that you would like to learn more about? Please reach out to us at pucra@princeton.edu with questions or comments.

Leading in Energy Innovation

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory announces innovative programs and research discoveries

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is mastering the art of using plasma — the fourth state of matter — to solve some of the world’s toughest science and technology challenges. The Lab conducts essential research across a full range of plasma applications, whether it’s developing fusion as a clean, safe and virtually limitless power source or creating the next generation of materials for microelectronics and quantum sensors and devices.

PPPL recently announced new endeavors with private and public partners. Read more below:

Unprecedented new device at PPPL will help unravel mysteries of the universe

NJEDA, SOSV & Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory create Strategic Innovation Center

PPPL and Microsoft sign MOU to advance AI for fusion

Photo Credit: Michael Livingston/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

Collaborating in Technology

Liat Krawczyk named inaugural executive director of the NJ AI Hub

Liat Krawczyk, a former senior adviser on the CHIPS for America strategy team at the U.S. Department of Commerce, has been named the inaugural executive director of the NJ AI Hub, which brings together academia, government and industry to foster innovation in artificial intelligence in New Jersey. Her appointment will take effect June 16.

“Liat Krawczyk brings to the NJ AI Hub a powerful combination of strategic vision, an ability to launch new initiatives, and demonstrated expertise in building multi-sector partnerships,” said Princeton University Vice President and Secretary Hilary A. Parker, to whom Krawczyk will report. “I am confident that, under her leadership, the Hub will simultaneously help to advance some of the University’s highest strategic priorities and fulfill a shared vision that will have a transformative impact on our region.”

Image Credit: Liat Krawczyk

Elevating the Arts

Hamilton-based artist Léni Paquet-Morante highlighted in solo exhibition at Princeton University Art Museum

Extract / Abstract, an exhibition featuring recent works by Leni Paquet-Morante (born 1962, Temiscamingue, Quebec, Canada; active Hamilton, NJ) will open at Princeton University Art Museum's Art@Bainbridge gallery on July 18. Paquet-Morante's work reimagines landscape painting. Working across various media, including acrylic painting, ink drawing, and monoprints, the artist prioritizes abstraction through her use of bold colors, impressionistic mark-making, and unusual crops.

Extract / Abstract inspires numerous related public events on campus including an outdoor film series, Art on Screen with Princeton Garden Theater, and a conversation with Paquet-Morante and guest curator Michael Quituisaca (graduate student, Department of Art & Archaeology).

Image Credit: Léni Paquet-Morante (born 1962; born Temiscamingue, Quebec, Canada; active Hamilton, NJ), Vernal Pool, Shade, 2022. Acrylic on canvas; 91.4 × 91.4 cm, 94 × 94 cm (frame). Courtesy of the artist (AB-2025-23)