10 YEARS OF ASEF: Celebrating a Decade of Slovenian Excellence in Education, Innovation, and Community

On November 16, 2024, ASEF marked a monumental milestone: 10 years of connecting Slovenian scholars worldwide, fostering academic excellence, and promoting innovation. Hosted at the Grand Bay Hotel in San Francisco, the event gathered over 110 attendees for a day of intellectual enrichment, cultural celebration, and culinary delight.

Scientific Symposium: Slovenian Excellence in Space and Science

The day began with a Scientific Symposium co-organized with the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Washington and the Slovenian American Business Association (SABA). The symposium showcased the groundbreaking contributions of Slovenian researchers in areas like AI applications for space missions, nanosatellite technology, and linguistic AI innovations.

Opening remarks by Ambassador Iztok Mirošič and Minister Dr. Igor Papič set the tone for the event. Minister Papič emphasized ASEF’s transformative impact:

“During these 10 years, you have built a strong bridge between Slovenia and the world, connecting students, mentors, and professors. Everything you achieve benefits society as a whole.”

The lineup of speakers included:

• Prof. Dr. Uroš Seljak (UC Berkeley): on AI’s transformative role in space sciences.
• Dr. Kaja Antlej (Deakin University): on XR-supported environments for astronaut well-being.
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gašper Beguš (UC Berkeley): on deciphering language using AI.
• Dr. Iztok Kramberger (SkyLabs): on nanosatellite resilience in high-radiation orbits.
• Prof. Dr. Andrej Prša (Villanova University): on eclipsing binary stars.

The symposium reinforced ASEF’s mission to amplify Slovenian talent on a global stage, while fostering collaboration and innovation.

Gala Celebration: A Decade of Impact

The evening Gala celebrated Slovenian heritage and excellence, blending tradition with inspiration. ASEF President Thomas Brandi reflected on the organization’s remarkable journey:

“We started with this Gala here, and it is heartwarming to return. To the ones here who did not have a chance to know and meet who has know Mr France Rode and Mr Zvonko Fazarinc, you are in a loss. Great thinkers, but even more amazing humans. The kindest people you may meet. Like them, many other Slovenians are incredibly talented, with countless inventions and achievements to be proud of. Let us be proud of that and also, of such a strong community ASEF has build over the years.”

In his remarks Ambassador of RS in Washington Iztok Mirošič highlighted the Gala’s significance:

“After a day of groundbreaking science, this evening is about celebrating Slovenian culture. It’s Martinovo in Slovenia, where water is turned into wine, and I am sure you will enjoy a delicious Slovenian feast alongside vibrant networking and cultural experiences. Happy Gala and best regards from Washington!”

ASEF co-founder Prof. Dr. Jure Leskovec expressed heartfelt gratitude to attendees and supporters:

“Thank you to everyone who came, who are active in our community, and who support ASEF. We still need you. We still have the drive to aim high, and together, we can achieve even more.”

A highlight of the evening was the personal stories shared by current and former ASEF Fellows. They spoke about how ASEF’s Visit Slovenia and Research Abroad programs shaped their academic journeys, personal growth, and connections to Slovenia. ASEF has supported over 200 Fellows, collaborated with 150 mentors, and cultivated numerous institutional partnerships, becoming a beacon for reversing brain drain and promoting global collaboration.

Looking Ahead

As ASEF embarks on its next decade, its vision remains steadfast: fostering academic excellence, building character, and promoting humanity. With initiatives like the Tutorial Program, ASEF empowers young minds to dream big and achieve even bigger.

The 10th-anniversary celebration wasn’t just a reflection on past achievements but also a call to action. As we look to the future, we invite you to join us in continuing this impactful journey. Your support fuels programs like the Visit Slovenia and Research Abroad Fellowships, empowers emerging scholars, and fosters a global community of Slovenian excellence.

Donate today and be part of the next chapter of ASEF’s story. Together, we can achieve even more.

Thank you for helping ASEF inspire, connect, and create a better future.