Author Biographies

Yang Ni is the founder of Symbiotic Future and the Columbia Positive Emotions Initiative, an entrepreneur and independent researcher at the intersection of AI, mental health, and education. He received his BCom in Management from the University of Melbourne and his MPA from Columbia University. Drawing on a background in policy, management, product design, and innovations, he develops technology-driven solutions that democratize access to well-being resources and empower individuals. His research focuses on the policy, organizational, and technological perspectives on applying AI in creating mental health solutions for the next era.
Fanli Jia is a tenured Associate Professor of Psychology at Seton Hall University, specializing in cultural and developmental psychology. He also serves as the Chair of the Diversity Committee within APA Division 2 (Society for the Teaching of Psychology), where he promotes initiatives to enhance diversity and inclusion in psychology education. He received his BA from the University of Winnipeg in 2008, and completed his MA and Ph.D. at Wilfrid Laurier University in 2010 and 2016, respectively. He was awarded the Outstanding Professor or Researcher by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in 2021. His research focuses on promoting environmental responsibility and climate action by examining how values and behaviors are transmitted across generations. He investigates the role of parental norms and children's social influences in shaping eco-friendly actions, emphasizing the importance of family, education, and cultural contexts in fostering environmental stewardship.
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