Dr. Michael B. Flinn is Professor, Chair, and Disrupter-in-Residence (unofficial title, very official energy) in the Department of Computer Science and Information Technologies at Frostburg State University, where he also coordinates the Master of Applied Computer Science program. With nearly 25 years in computing education, Dr. Flinn challenges the status quo by asking one big question: How do we truly engage students in a world flooded with AI agents, infinite scroll, and attention-hacking algorithms?

His answer? Disrupt the system — with purpose. Whether it’s creating the Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad, standing up a low-cost eSports arena, launching mandatory programming competitions, or empowering undergrads to host high school students for student-led CTF cybersecurity events, Dr. Flinn finds ways to make learning meaningful, social, and energizing.

In this interactive keynote, Dr. Flinn brings a growth mindset lens to the conversation—nudging faculty, students, and institutions to rethink what’s possible when curiosity meets action. Expect challenged assumptions, fresh ideas, and a few ready-to-deploy hacks to make your teaching hit different. Be ready to discuss, interact, and pose questions—not just to Dr. Flinn, but to each other. This session is about building shared momentum, not just consuming content.