Nicholas A. Holt, PhD, is the Director of Innovation for the College of Education at the University of Georgia, Chair of the Innovation in Teaching Conference, and adjunct faculty in the Department of Counseling and Human Development. He serves the college as both liaison and sherpa, bridging the pedagogical with the technological in a uniquely positive and playful way. His research focuses on designing live action problem-solving games that get communities involved in civic engagement and volunteerism. His scholarship and personal philosophy situate at the intersections between play, games, and learning. He consulted with The Walt Disney Company on educational game development and supported the technology needs for the band R.E.M. He has produced and directed an international film festival with the Independent Film Channel and a music video showcase with MTV. His current project is a game under development entitled “Community Quest.” It involves empowering graduate and undergraduate students to design, develop and implement an epistemic game promoting community service, volunteerism, and civic engagement in their local community. Nic lives by the motto, “we are smarter than me”!
