Panel 1: Society Ripe for Change

Panel Objective

The panel aims to analyze the objective and social conditions in Iran that indicate a society on the brink of transformative change or regime overthrow. It explores the deepening economic, political, social, and environmental crises, and how these have fueled widespread discontent, protest movements, and a growing readiness among the Iranian population to challenge the ruling theocratic regime.

Panel Participants

Kazem Kazerounian, Ph.D., Dean, UConn College of Engineering (2012–2024); Executive Director, ASME Design Division (2007–2012); Fellow, ASME and AIMBE; Member, Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering. Dr. Kazerounian is a transformative leader in academic innovation and engineering research, recognized nationally and internationally for his contributions to biomechanics, robotics, and mechanical design. A recipient of numerous national lifetime achievement awards, he has also consulted for more than 50 companies and advised industry and government in design automation, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and strategic planning. As Dean at UConn, he expanded research infrastructure, strengthened industry partnerships, and launched forward-looking programs addressing future technological challenges.

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Hossein Saiedian, Ph.D., is a leading figure in computer science as a Professor at the University of Kansas (KU) and a member of the KU Institute for Information Sciences. His significant scholarly output includes over 170 publications in the core areas of computer science, software engineering, and information security. Professor Saiedian’s research has attracted support from major organizations, including the NSF. Beyond his recognized excellence in research, evidenced by numerous distinguished awards, his commitment to education is profound: he has mentored and graduated more than 100 master’s and doctoral students during his tenure at two institutions.

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Sima Yazdani, BSE, MS (Panel Moderator), is the Executive Director of AI Technology & Solutions, with over 40 years of experience in secure IT and database systems. She has authored two technical books and holds six U.S. patents in domain-specific knowledge modeling and AI applications. She is currently a doctorate candidate in Integrated Health Solutions & AI at Arizona State University. Her work focuses on advancing practical AI solutions across healthcare and enterprise environments.

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Ashraf Zadshir, MD, is a physician, educator, and clinical researcher based in California. She has held faculty positions at St. George’s University and UC Riverside, and currently serves as Core Faculty in a Family Medicine Residency Program. A published author and award-winning leader, she also chairs Clinicians for a Free Iran, advocating for human rights and ethical medical practice.

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