Next stop for this Buccaneer: Washington, D.C.

East Tennessee State University’s Dr. Janel Paulk, a faculty member in the Department of Computing, has been selected for the prestigious Presidential Innovation Fellowship program (PIF). Paulk was chosen to serve as part of the 2026–27 10-member cohort, earning a one-year appointment focused on pushing forward a special project within the federal government.

After a competitive and extensive application process that saw 1,200 candidates submit applications, Paulk was selected as one of fewer than 1% of applicants accepted into the program.

Presidential Innovation Fellows serve as senior advisers and embedded practitioners, working directly within federal agencies on technology-focused initiatives designed to deliver a more effective digital government for and with the American public.

“It’s all about getting that buy-in, overcoming resistance and making sure that the technology is actually adding value and providing what the end users need,” said Paulk.  

The nonpartisan, merit-based program, launched in 2012, will leverage Paulk’s research expertise in technology implementation, AI governance and ethics, health care information systems and organizational behavior to support public-serving innovation.

“This is something that I can contribute to and be of service to my country while also utilizing my talents, background, education and experience to benefit this project,” said Paulk. “It brings me a lot of joy to be selected, but I also recognize that it comes with huge accountability, not only to ETSU, but also to the government, to ensure that whatever special project I’m assigned to, that it’s successful.”

The impact of Paulk’s work will extend beyond Washington, D.C. ETSU stands to benefit through expanded research opportunities, scholarly contributions and professional connections. The PIF alumni network includes a wide range of career technologists, which will create new pathways for collaboration and engagement with the university.

For Paulk, the greatest impact may be felt in the classroom. Insights gained during her year in the nation’s capital will enhance her teaching and mentorship of future students.

“I’ll be able to provide insight into both private and public projects and what they look like from a technologist’s perspective,” Paulk said. “Bringing that experience into the classroom will help students see that they have meaningful opportunities in the federal government.”

Explore the many ways ETSU researchers are challenging the status quo at etsu.edu/trailblazers.