Image credit: From left to right: Nick Jushchyshyn and Nandhini Giri
As SIGGRAPH 2026 approaches, education continues to play a vital role in connecting emerging talent, academic research, and industry innovation. In this episode of SIGGRAPH Spotlight, SIGGRAPH 2026 Education Chair Nick Jushchyshyn and SIGGRAPH 2027 Education Chair Dr. Nandhini Giri discuss how SIGGRAPH creates opportunities for educators, students, and institutions through hands-on learning, technical content, and meaningful networking. From practical ways to get involved to insights participants can bring back to the classroom, the conversation highlights how SIGGRAPH continues to strengthen the connection between education and the future of computer graphics and interactive techniques.
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About Our Guests
Nick Jushchyshyn teaches virtual production and performance capture at Drexel University, with a focus on the interface between real and virtual worlds. His work leverages virtual production, VR/AR, motion capture, and other immersive media solutions for applications in education, cultural heritage, medicine, and narrative experiences. He also shares some of his insights and learnings openly on YouTube.
His feature film visual effects experience spans matchmoving (using tools such as Syntheyes, PFTrack, MatchMover Pro), compositing (Nuke, After Effects, Shake), pipeline technical directing/programming and scripting (C, C++, Python), 3D (Maya, Cinema 4D), photogrammetry, and motion capture (Vicon, Optitrak, MotionBuilder). Currently, much of his work centers on the Unreal Engine ecosystem, reflecting his deep engagement with real-time graphics and immersive technology.
Nandhini Giri is an educator, researcher, and practitioner, currently working as a professor of human computer interaction and director of the experience realities lab at Purdue University. Giri studies human-centric approaches and design expertise development in computer graphics educational and interactive entertainment professional practices. Giri and her students design experiential learning systems and game-based pedagogical tools for improved user learning experiences. Her notable animated film credits include Laya (2019), Boss Baby (2017), Home (2015), Penguins of Madagascar (2014), Mr. Peabody and Sherman (2014), Rise of the Guardians (2012), Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (2012).
