All posts by Adriana Carlson

Iconic Landmark and SeattleFWC26 Kicks Off Celebrating Seattle’s Role as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City

SEATTLE, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Seattle prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, the Space Needle and Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™ (SeattleFWC26) today unveiled a dramatic transformation of Seattle’s most iconic landmark. A giant soccer ball now welcomes visitors above the city skyline in celebration of the world’s biggest sporting event and Seattle’s role as a Host City.

The idea of reimagining the top of the Space Needle into a soccer ball emerged during a brainstorming session with SeattleFWC26, guided by a simple question: if the world is watching Seattle, how could the city welcome fans with something they have never seen before? What began as a bold early sketch quickly grew into a concept that continued to challenge and inspire the team throughout its development. The modified roof stands as a visual symbol of both the universal love of the game and the excitement building across the region as Seattle prepares to host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches and welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the globe.

“With just days until the world arrives in Seattle, this activation captures the energy building across our region,” said Peter Tomozawa, CEO of SeattleFWC26. “The Space Needle is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. Seeing it reimagined as a soccer ball sends a powerful message that Seattle is ready to welcome the world.”

The metamorphosis was made possible through a partnership between the Space Needle and SeattleFWC26 and executed by Seattle-based Long Painting Company. Crews worked 605 feet above Seattle Center to carefully apply the custom soccer ball design to the Space Needle’s iconic sloped roof.

“Throughout its history, the Space Needle has played a role in some of the most defining moments for Seattle and the Pacific Northwest,” said Ron Sevart, CEO of the Space Needle. “This project celebrates not only soccer, but the global connections, community spirit and excitement that the tournament will bring to the city.”

The project required specialized equipment, precision planning and close coordination with the Space Needle team to complete the work safely while watching the weather forecasts closely. Known for its work on some of the Pacific Northwest’s most complex and high-profile structures, Long Painting brought deep expertise and craftsmanship to this installation.

“This is more than a paint project,” said Jonathon Holca, General Manager at Long Painting. “Our team understood from day one that we were helping create a moment that would be seen around the world. We’re incredibly proud to play a role in turning the symbol of Seattle into a symbol of the world’s game.”

Visible across the city and beyond, the transformed Space Needle is expected to become one of the defining images of Seattle’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ celebration.

The project was documented through drone videography, time-lapse photography and behind-the-scenes footage capturing the scale, precision and complexity of the transformation.

Seattle is one of 16 Host Cities across North America selected to host FIFA World Cup 2026™, the largest FIFA World Cup in history. The tournament is expected to attract millions of visitors and billions of viewers worldwide, providing an unprecedented opportunity to showcase Seattle, Washington State and the Pacific Northwest on a global stage.

The Space Needle’s shift into a soccer ball will remain a centerpiece of Seattle’s FIFA World Cup celebrations and a visual reminder of the city’s role in one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events.

A Video News Release (VNR), including broadcast-quality drone footage, time-lapse video, photography and behind-the-scenes content, is available at the link below.

Canto

About Space Needle

Built as the centerpiece of the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, the Space Needle has since become the defining icon of the Seattle skyline and a symbol of innovation and optimism. Following its $100 million renovation, the landmark now features more than 176 tons of glass, including The Loupe—the world’s first and only revolving glass floor. Open year-round, the Space Needle welcomes more than one million visitors annually. For more information, visit spaceneedle.com.

About Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™

Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™ (SeattleFWC26) is the official Local Organizing Committee responsible for planning and delivering Seattle’s Host City activities for FIFA World Cup 2026™. Working alongside public, private, and community partners, SeattleFWC26 is committed to creating an inclusive and memorable tournament experience while delivering lasting benefits to the region.

About Long Painting

Founded in 1967, Long Painting is one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest industrial and commercial coating contractors. The company has delivered complex coating projects across North America, including landmark structures such as the Golden Gate Bridge and the Space Needle. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship, safety, and innovation, Long Painting provides specialized coating solutions for infrastructure including bridges, ferries, water treatment facilities, hospitals, schools, and high-rise buildings.

For more information, contact: 
Amy Cunningham, Space Needle Public Relations Director
Molly DeLano, Space Needle PR Strategist
media@spaceneedle.com

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Game-Changing Anode Protection Platform Enabling All Ultra-High Energy Lithium Metal Batteries for Space and Commercial Applications

DALLAS, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Solidion Technology Inc. (“Solidion” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: STI), an advanced battery technology solutions provider, today announced a patented breakthrough in lithium metal battery technology that removes the key stumbling blocks against full-scale commercialization of lithium-sulfur, lithium-air, and anodeless lithium metal batteries.

This technology further solidifies Solidion’s leadership position in powering the rapidly expanding space and lunar economy. Solidion’s lithium battery-enabling platform will deliver reliable, high-performance power storage for satellites, low-Earth orbit (LEO)-based AI data centers, crewed spacecraft, and future lunar infrastructure.

This lithium metal anode protection platform, protected by 30+ patents, addresses the following three technical barriers that have thus far prevented large-scale implementation of ultra-high energy lithium metal batteries: (1) continued reactions between the electrolyte and lithium metal; (2) lithium dendrites that could penetrate through the separator or solid-state electrolyte layer, creating internal shorting and thermal runaway; and (3) large gaps between the lithium metal layer and the solid-state electrolyte that diminish battery performance.

The strategic importance of Solidion’s battery technology may be briefly summarized below:

• For the space industry: the lithium metal batteries, as illustrated in the diagram below, are well-suited for powering all space infrastructure and space vehicles.
• Down-to-earth applications: Beyond space, Solidion’s platform powers electric vehicles, drones, robots, and AI data center UPS systems.
• Domestic supply chain security: With over 385 patents, U.S.-based green graphite production ramp, and silicon-anode leadership, Solidion supports American space leadership by reducing reliance on foreign battery materials — a critical consideration for national security-oriented space programs.

About Solidion Technology, Inc.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with pilot production facilities in Dayton, Ohio, Solidion Technology (NASDAQ: STI) is an advanced battery technology solutions provider focused on manufacturing next-generation battery materials and components, and developing high-performance batteries for energy storage, including UPS systems serving the AI data center market, electric vehicles, and aerospace applications. The Company holds a portfolio of over 385 patents, covering innovations such as high-capacity, silane-gas-free and graphene-enabled silicon anodes, biomass-based graphite, and advanced lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal technologies.

For more information, please visit www.solidiontech.com or contact Investor Relations.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Solidion Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: STI) (the “Company,” “Solidion,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts,” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect,” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

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MUMBAI, India, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Rising mobility, robust industrial activity, growing energy consumption and expanding economic momentum across the country were reflected in Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited’s (BPCL) operational performance during May 2026, with the Company recording growth across key business segments.

The month witnessed strong demand across transportation, industrial and household energy categories, underscoring the resilience of India’s growth story and the critical role played by energy infrastructure in supporting economic activity.

BPCL recorded Motor Spirit (Petrol) sales stood at 10,50,000+ MT, registering a year-on-year growth of 4.29%, reflecting continued growth in personal mobility, increased road travel and sustained consumer activity across urban and semi-urban markets.

High-Speed Diesel sales reached 21,00,000+ MT, marking a growth of 6.72% over the corresponding period last year. Diesel demand remained buoyant on the back of logistics movement, infrastructure development, industrial activity and agricultural operations across several regions of the country.

LPG refill activity also remained strong during the month, reflecting sustained consumer demand across domestic, commercial, and Bharatgas Mini segments. BPCL delivered over 3.51 crore LPG refills during May 2026, comprising 33,928,057 domestic cylinder refills, 832,257 commercial cylinder refills, and 358,400 Bharatgas Mini cylinder refills, reaffirming the Company’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to clean cooking fuel for households and businesses nationwide.

Commenting on the performance, a BPCL spokesperson stated that the growth witnessed across key product categories during May 2026 reflects the strong underlying demand fundamentals of the Indian economy. As mobility, infrastructure development, industrial activity and household consumption continue to expand, BPCL remains committed to ensuring reliable energy availability through its robust supply chain, extensive distribution network and customer-centric operations. BPCL continues to invest in strengthening energy infrastructure while meeting the evolving energy needs of the nation.

Throughout the month, BPCL continued to maintain uninterrupted supplies across its network of fuel stations, LPG distributorships, aviation fuelling stations and industrial customers, ensuring seamless access to energy products across the country.

The Company’s performance during May 2026 reinforces its role as a key contributor to India’s energy ecosystem, supporting economic growth while delivering reliable and efficient energy solutions to millions of consumers every day.

About Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL):

Fortune Global 500 Company, Bharat Petroleum is the second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company and one of the integrated energy companies in India, engaged in refining of crude oil and marketing of petroleum products, with presence in the upstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry. The company attained the coveted Maharatna status, joining the club of companies having greater operational & financial autonomy.

Bharat Petroleum’s Refineries at Mumbai, Kochi and Bina have a combined refining capacity of around 35.3 MMTPA. Its marketing infrastructure includes a network of installations, depots, fuel stations, aviation service stations and LPG distributors. Its distribution network comprises over 25,300+ Fuel Stations, over 1000+ CNG stations, over 6,250+ LPG distributorships, 440+ Lubes distributorships, 81 POL storage locations, 56 LPG Bottling Plants, 81 Aviation Service Stations, 5 Lube blending plants and 6 cross-country pipelines.

Bharat Petroleum is integrating its strategy, investments, environmental and social ambitions to move towards a sustainable planet. The company has Electric vehicle charging stations at 6800+ Fuel Stations. With a focus on sustainable solutions, the company is developing an ecosystem and a road-map to become a Net Zero Energy Company by 2040, in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Bharat Petroleum has been partnering communities by supporting several initiatives connected primarily in the areas of education, water conservation, skill development, health, community development, capacity building and employee volunteering. With ‘Energising Lives’ as its core purpose, Bharat Petroleum’s vision is to be an admired global energy company leveraging talent, innovation & technology.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/india-on-the-move-bpcls-may-2026-performance-reflects-growing-demand-across-key-energy-segments-302792450.html

TAIPEI, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GIGABYTE, the world’s leading computer brand, continues to redefine the PC DIY market at COMPUTEX 2026 with its latest aesthetic-focused PC builds. The sleek STEALTH and the elegant WOOD series are introduced to meet the growing demand for visually refined and personalized PC setups. GIGABYTE also collaborates with more than 20 leading chassis partners to showcase PC builds that combine uncompromising performance with aesthetic design.

Originating from Project STEALTH, first introduced in 2022, the STEALTH concept pioneered the industry’s reverse-connector motherboard design for more streamlined PC assembly and personalized decoration with more front-side space. At COMPUTEX 2026, GIGABYTE demonstrates the latest evolution of STEALTH builds with its reverse-connector B850M AORUS STEALTH ICE motherboard and AORUS GeForce RTX™ 5090 STEALTH ICE graphics card for minimalist layouts. In addition to supporting its own chassis lineup, GIGABYTE also expands the STEALTH ecosystem with more than 10 renowned chassis manufacturers, including Corsair, LIAN LI, InWin, Montech, Thermaltake, Cooler Master, HYTE, and more. The partnership makes the Project STEALTH the most compatible and flexible solution for cableless PC builds across the market.

Alongside the sleek STEALTH builds, GIGABYTE also introduces the elegant WOOD series lineup, blending Zen-inspired aesthetics with natural materials to bring warmth and organic beauty into a modern PC setup. The wood texture transforms cold hardware into elegant lifestyle creations, creating a harmonious combination of natural textures and high-performance computing. To further elevate the wooden aesthetic concept, GIGABYTE collaborates with Noctua and TRYX during COMPUTEX 2026, presenting wood-themed PC builds with refined craftsmanship and uncompromising performance of the X870E AERO X3D WOOD series motherboard.

To experience the sleek STEALTH and elegant WOOD PC builds, please visit GIGABYTE Consumer Booth #M0520 at Nangang Exhibition Hall 1, 4F during COMPUTEX 2026, or explore more product information on the official website.

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MUMBAI, India, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Liberty General Insurance (LGI) has recently launched Liberty Cyber Resolution™ in India, a comprehensive cyber insurance solution designed to help organisations address the growing complexity of cyber threats with greater confidence, clarity and long-term support.

As businesses across India continue to accelerate digital adoption, cyber risks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, interconnected and disruptive. From ransomware attacks and data breaches to operational disruption, supply chain interruptions and reputational impact, organisations today require protection solutions that go beyond conventional risk transfer.

Built on Liberty Mutual’s global financial strength and decades of specialty risk expertise, Liberty Cyber Resolution™ is a flexible, claims-led cyber insurance solution backed by 24/7 incident response support, dedicated cyber risk engineering capabilities, and specialised underwriting and claims expertise.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Parag Ved, CEO & Whole-Time Director, Liberty General Insurance said, “With the launch of Liberty Cyber Resolution™, we have further strengthened our commercial lines portfolio by bringing Liberty’s global cyber expertise, specialised capabilities and deep risk insights to businesses in India. As organisations continue to embrace digital transformation and increasingly interconnected operating environments, cyber resilience has become a critical business priority.”

“Liberty Cyber Resolution™ combines specialised underwriting, risk engineering expertise and responsive claims support to help organisations navigate an evolving cyber threat landscape with greater confidence. This launch reflects our commitment to delivering future-ready insurance solutions that address emerging risks and support businesses in building long-term resilience in an increasingly digital economy,” Mr. Ved added.

Commenting on the launch, Ms. Gisha George, President-Product & Underwriting-Commercial Lines & Reinsurance, Liberty General Insurance said, “Cyber threats today are not only increasing in frequency but also evolving significantly in complexity and scale. Businesses need solutions that can support them before, during and after an incident. Liberty Cyber Resolution™ combines comprehensive coverage, responsive claims support, risk engineering expertise and global cyber insights to help organisations strengthen resilience and respond more effectively to cyber incidents.”

Coverage highlights include:

• Global flagship Liberty product with local expertise
• Coverage extensions including reputational harm, first-party cyber property damage, threat management, proof of loss preparation costs and criminal rewards.
• Personal harm protection for the Leader’s Household.
• No retention for incident coach services when Liberty’s approved incident counsel is engaged.
• System failure trigger for business interruption, supply chain interruption and incident management.
• Affirmative coverage for unintentional unauthorised collection or use of Protected Information.
• Artificial intelligence machine learning products and services included within the computer systems definition.
• Optional cyber crime coverage including funds transfer fraud, deceptive transfer fraud, computer fraud, cryptojacking and telecommunication fraud.

Claims, response and service capabilities:

• 24/7/365 cyber incident response support
• Liberty’s Cyber Incident Response Team typically responds within the hour
• Access to pre-approved incident response and DFIR partners across Asia Pacific
• Dedicated claims handling with local legal and technical expertise
• Streamlined onboarding, including optional mock claim experiences

Risk engineering and underwriting strengths:

Liberty’s Cyber Risk Engineering practice combines experienced cyber security specialists, analytics-driven insights and the Liberty Lenses assessment framework to deliver tailored and actionable risk mitigation support aligned to an organisation’s size, industry and complexity.

Its capabilities include peer benchmarking, claims-based predictive modelling, severity simulation, frequent updates of causal hazard indicators and Generative AI-driven operational summaries.

The underwriting framework is supported by specialised cyber expertise, proprietary training programmes, real-time analytics and flexible risk appetite across retail and wholesale markets.

About Liberty General Insurance

Liberty General Insurance Ltd. is a joint venture between Summit Asia Investments Holdings Pte. Ltd., a group company of Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, a diversified global insurer headquartered in the U.S. with over 900 offices worldwide, holding a 74% stake, and Enam Securities, which holds a 26% stake.

Liberty General Insurance Ltd. (LGI) commenced operations in 2013 with the aim of providing comprehensive retail, commercial and industrial insurance solutions. The company has an employee strength of over 1,300 and a presence across 95+ locations in 28 states and Union Territories. Its partner network includes over 6,500 hospitals and more than 6,100 auto service centres. The company offers health and personal accident insurance, car and two-wheeler insurance, employee compensation insurance, commercial insurance, as well as specialised offerings such as surety, engineering, marine, liability and property insurance, among others, in India.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/liberty-general-insurance-launches-liberty-cyber-resolution-302792433.html

Record Quarterly Equipment Billings Reflect Continued AI-Driven Investment

MILPITAS, Calif., June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SEMI, the industry association serving the global semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain, today announced in its Worldwide Semiconductor Equipment Market Statistics (WWSEMS) report that global semiconductor equipment billings increased 14% year-over-year to US$36.55 billion in the first quarter of 2026. First quarter 2026 billings registered a 1% quarter-over-quarter growth.

Record quarterly billings were driven by continued AI-related investment, including capacity expansion and technology upgrades supporting leading-edge logic, DRAM, and advanced packaging.

“The strong start to 2026 reflects continued industry investment in the capacity and infrastructure needed to support AI-driven semiconductor growth,” said Ajit Manocha, SEMI President and CEO. “Record first-quarter billings highlight ongoing momentum in leading-edge manufacturing and advanced packaging.”

Compiled from data submitted by members of SEMI and the Semiconductor Equipment Association of Japan (SEAJ), the WWSEMS report is a summary of the monthly billings figures for the global semiconductor equipment industry. 

The following are quarterly billings data in billions of U.S. dollars, with quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year changes by region:

About SEMI Equipment Market Data Subscription (EMDS)

The Equipment Market Data Subscription (EMDS) from SEMI provides comprehensive market data for the global semiconductor equipment market. A subscription includes three reports:

• Monthly SEMI North American Billings Report, an early perspective of equipment market trends
• Monthly Worldwide Semiconductor Equipment Market Statistics (WWSEMS), a detailed report of semiconductor equipment billings for seven regions and more than 22 market segments
• Bi-annual Total Semiconductor Equipment Forecast – OEM Perspective, an outlook for the semiconductor equipment market

Download a sample EMDS report.

For more information about the report or to subscribe, please contact the SEMI Market Intelligence Team at mktstats@semi.org. More details are also available on the SEMI Market Data webpage.

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About SEMI

SEMI^® is the global industry association connecting over 4,000 companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON^® expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members’ business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.

Association Contacts
Sherrie Gutierrez/SEMI
Phone: 1-831-889-3800
Email: sgutierrez@semi.org

Stephanie Quinn/Bodewell Group (Media Inquiries)
Phone: 1-480-316-8370
Email: squinn@bodewellgroup.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/semi-reports-global-semiconductor-equipment-billings-increased-14-year-over-year-in-q1-2026-302790871.html

STAMFORD, Conn. and SINGAPORE and DUBLIN and NEW YORK, June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AIP Capital, an alternative investment manager focused on opportunities in asset-based finance today announced that it has expanded its team appointing Matt Stevens as Managing Director to lead AIP’s commercial efforts in the Americas.

“We are excited to formally announce Matt joining to bolster AIP’s commercial efforts and AIP’s ability to serve regional and global industry clients across the firm’s client base” said Jared Ailstock, Managing Partner at AIP Capital. “Matt brings deep experience and a track record in aircraft financing, sales, leasing and partnering with airline customers over more than 15 years.”

Matt Stevens commented, “I’m honored to join AIP Capital and look forward to serving our valued airline customers across the Americas, strengthening our partnerships, and delivering bespoke fleet and financing solutions that support their long-term success.”

Prior to joining AIP Capital, Matt served as Vice President, Marketing for Air Lease Corporation where he was responsible for leading origination with airlines across the Americas and Spain. Matt received a Bachelor of Arts from The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a Master of Business Administration from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and is a FAA licensed pilot.

About AIP Capital

AIP Capital (AIP) is a global alternative investment manager focused on opportunities in asset-based finance including aviation and equipment finance. AIP, together with its affiliates, manages approximately $7.5 billion of assets on behalf of a diversified global investor base. The AIP team is comprised of over 70 experienced professionals across AIP’s offices in Stamford, New York City, Dublin, Singapore, Seoul & Tokyo.

For more information about AIP Capital or to speak with company executives, please contact investor.relations@aipcapital.com.

Media Contacts
AIP Capital
Geoffrey Bayers
investor.relations@aipcapital.com

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New AI capabilities empower local enterprises to safely scale operations, manage complexity, and drive sustainable growth.

MUMBAI, India, June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AVEVA, a global leader in industrial software, today announced a broad set of upcoming innovations for its industrial intelligence platform, CONNECT. Addressing the mounting challenge of data silos in the modern enterprise, the company is announcing a revolutionary industrial knowledge graph and a twin builder that applies agentic AI, slated for release in Q1 2027. By establishing a robust semantic model, this framework will act as the underlying architectural schematic that AI requires to deliver truly useful, accurate, and trusted outputs. Rather than feeding AI raw, disjointed information, this framework provides critical operational context by mapping the complex relationships between physical assets, empowering industrial teams to troubleshoot faster and make high-impact decisions with confidence.

The updates will make it faster and simpler for industrial organisations to put the full breadth of their industrial data to work, driving better decisions, stronger compliance, and AI-enhanced intelligent operations.

For industrial organisations, the pressure to adopt AI is intensifying, and so are the underlying challenges: complex regulatory environments, a growing sustainability imperative, ageing infrastructure and fragmented data. Today, up to 73% of all data collected within enterprises goes unused. Furthermore, 76% of business leaders report finding it difficult to understand their data. CONNECT bridges this gap by leveraging the cloud to empower ecosystems securely and seamlessly across the value chain, driving exponential business growth.

“For industrial enterprises globally, the challenge is not ambition but infrastructure,” shared Zubin Davar, VP – CONNECT Platform GTM. “The promise of AI remains largely unrealised for most industrial teams because operations data, engineering data, asset context, workflows, and compliance frameworks all need to be managed in one place without losing fidelity, lineage, or meaning. CONNECT is designed to close this gap across every layer of deeply heterogeneous industrial technology stacks. By lowering the cost and complexity of unifying industrial data, we help customers turn fragmented data into trusted intelligence, accelerating their AI-driven transformation.”

Accelerating industrial intelligence with customers and academia in India

Highlighting the strategic importance of the platform and its rapid adoption in the region, AVEVA announced the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading industry customers, including Deccan Fine Chemicals (I) Pvt. Limited, and Reliance Power Limited, at the India CONNECT launch event held in Mumbai. These strategic agreements are aimed at accelerating the implementation of CONNECT by leveraging cloud capabilities to enable a secure, seamless, and collaborative digital ecosystem across the value chain, driving sustainable and exponential business growth.

In addition, AVEVA signed an MoU with VJTI’s Technology Business Incubator (TBI), VJTI is an autonomous institution of repute, owned by the Maharashtra State Government, reinforcing its commitment to academia-led skill development and innovation and supporting the creation of a future-ready talent pool to meet evolving industry needs.

“The announcements at AVEVA World, coupled with these MoUs signed at the India CONNECT launch, reflect our commitment to matching the depth and pace of progress Indian enterprises are making,” said Tarun Singh, Country Head, AVEVA India. “India’s industrial sector is scaling rapidly, and by embedding AI and intelligence deeply into industrial workflows through CONNECT, we are helping local organizations move faster, manage complexity, and operate with confidence.”

CONNECT: expanding the data and AI ecosystem

To build on this momentum, AVEVA’s industrial intelligence platform CONNECT is significantly expanding its integrations with leading enterprise data platforms, introducing key capabilities critical to driving industrial pipeline generation and enterprise-wide transformation. Central to this expansion is a new strategic integration and partnership with Snowflake. Utilizing a zero-copy architecture, industrial enterprises can now query high-fidelity OT data directly within Snowflake without the need to duplicate or move data, ensuring a single source of truth while dramatically lowering latency and integration costs.

AVEVA is also streamlining data management with the launch of CONNECT Flows (formerly Crosser). This introduces new stream analytics and integration capabilities that enable the seamless assembly and deployment of data processing pipelines for real-time edge-to-cloud cleansing, filtering, and transformation. Simultaneously, the platform’s cloud and AI ecosystem is scaling rapidly. AVEVA is launching multicloud CONNECT in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to offer customers unprecedented hosting flexibility. Furthermore, the company is forging a new strategic and technology partnership with IFS and launching Digital Twins for AI Factories in collaboration with NVIDIA and Schneider Electric.

Looking ahead, a major CONNECT release is planned for Q1 2027, bringing a range of new capabilities, including an industrial knowledge graph that makes it faster to construct, enrich, and operationalise digital twins. Slated for an Early Access Program opening this year, this knowledge graph is populated using a twin builder that applies agentic AI to propose intelligent mappings, aligning existing, fragmented data sources to a standard data model. This radically accelerates time-to-value while preserving information lineage and ensuring rigorous data governance so every decision can be trusted.

By bringing these advanced data management and AI capabilities to the Indian market, AVEVA is empowering local enterprises to overcome data fragmentation and safely scale their digital transformation initiatives. As India continues its rapid industrial expansion, CONNECT provides the secure, unified foundation organizations need to turn complex operational data into a strategic asset.

About AVEVA

AVEVA is a global leader in industrial software, sparking ingenuity to drive responsible use of the world’s resources. Over 90% of leading industrial enterprises rely on AVEVA to help them deliver life’s essentials: safe, reliable energy, food, medicines, infrastructure and more. By connecting people with trusted information and AI-enriched insights, AVEVA helps them engineer capital projects more efficiently, operate better and create sustainable value, from the plant to the cloud and beyond. Through our industrial intelligence platform, CONNECT, and our trusted and secure information management applications enriched with industrial AI, AVEVA empowers businesses to drive deeper collaboration between teams and to accelerate insight across their ecosystem of suppliers, partners and customers. 

Named as one of the world’s most innovative companies, AVEVA’s open solutions draw on the expertise of more than 6,000 employees, 5,000 partners and 5,700 certified developers. The company, which has operations around the globe, is headquartered in Cambridge, UK. Learn more at www.aveva.com. 

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PALO ALTO, Calif., June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stanford University Libraries are excited to announce two new members to its leadership team effective June 1. Sarah Sussman will join as the Assistant University Librarian for Collections and Public Services in the Humanities, Area Studies, and Social Sciences, and Alma Parada will serve as the Assistant University Librarian for Collections and Public Services in Sciences and Engineering.

“Both Sarah and Alma will be wonderful additions to the Libraries’ leadership team known as the Library Executive Group,” says Michael A. Keller, the Ida M. Green University Librarian. “As AULs for Collections and Public Services, they will oversee one of the largest areas in the Libraries covering collections management and public services across twenty libraries and centers. Their incredible talents, skills, and contributions to the Libraries over the years are attestments to the leadership they will bring to their new roles. I am thrilled to welcome such remarkable leaders to our Library Executive Group.”

Sarah Sussman: Leading Humanities, Area Studies, and Social Sciences

Sussman started at the Libraries in 2002 as Curator of the French and Italian Collections soon after finishing her PhD in History at Stanford. During her tenure, she developed both the general and special collections in French and Italian focusing on women in France and Italy, history of science and exploration, 18th century French literature and history, and the French empire. Notably, in 2020, she led the acquisition of the Roxane Debuisson Collection on Paris History, a unique and extensive collection documenting the history of Paris through its infrastructure and commerce. The Debuisson Collection is widely used by Stanford faculty today.

James P. Daughton, Professor of History, praises Sussman’s role in bringing the collection to Stanford, “Without her determination and leadership, Stanford would not have been able to acquire what is one of the finest private collections in the history of France. In addition to [being] a formidable researcher, she has curated a collection of primary sources that has made Stanford an internationally recognized center for its collections related to French history, culture, and society.”

Adds Keith Baker, the J. E. Wallace Sterling Professor of the Humanities, “Sarah Sussman is a superb librarian – knowledgeable, curious, resourceful, generous in support of student and faculty research, and deeply committed to strengthening the collections under her care.”

In 2011, Sussman became the head of the International and Area Studies Resource Group, later reconfigured as the Humanities and Area Studies Resource Group (HASRG) in 2017. Leading the HASRG has provided Sussman a natural step forward to her AUL role. “I am excited to build on my curatorial and management experience in a more strategic role as AUL for Humanities, Area Studies, and Social Sciences Collections and Services,” shares Sussman. “Guiding my vision is the belief that research and teaching in the global humanities and social sciences are more critical than ever in today’s complicated world. I look forward to working with colleagues across the libraries to address the challenges that new technologies and research methodologies offer Stanford’s amazing subject librarians and collections in these fields.”

Sussman’s colleagues are equally excited for her new role. Benjamin Stone, Curator for American and British History, remarks, “Sarah has excelled at building, maintaining, and exposing unique collections at SUL, including rare books and manuscripts, while at the same time staying abreast of technological developments and innovation. At a national and international level, Sarah’s long engagement and leadership in the European Studies Section of ACRL exemplifies her commitment to building collaborative relationships with libraries far and wide. The Libraries and the broader Stanford community are highly fortunate to have Sarah’s leadership as incoming AUL for Humanities and Social Sciences.”

Alma Parada: Leading Sciences and Engineering

Parada’s journey to the Libraries echoes that of Sussman’s, coming to Stanford in 2016 as a postdoctoral scholar in Marine Biology after receiving her PhD in Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography from the University of Southern California in 2015. She started as the Earth and Environmental Sciences Librarian in 2021, a role she retained when she became Head Librarian for the Branner Earth Sciences Library & Map Collections in 2024.

In her dual roles, Parada managed one of the most comprehensive libraries in the Earth Sciences with its vast holdings in geophysics, energy, climate, and geology, along with its renowned map collections and the GeoSpatial Map Center housed in Branner Library. In 2022, she skillfully navigated Branner Library during the School of Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences’ transformation to the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, continuing Branner Library’s support of faculty and students in these new departments.

Faculty and colleagues from across the Doerr School have praised Parada’s role in leading Branner Library and welcome her appointment as AUL. Stephan Graham, the Welton Joseph and Maude L’Anphere Crook Professor in Applied Earth Sciences, states, “Dr. Parada has fully met my expectations as Branner Head Librarian. Her background as a Ph.D. holder in Biological Sciences has given her a fundamental understanding of what a nationally recognized Earth library needs to maintain and advance its quality.”

Simon Klemperer, Professor of Geophysics, notes Parada’s enthusiastic work with students in particular. “Every year,” he recounts, “I teach our capstone Senior Seminar to Geophysics and EPS (formerly Geology) students [and have…] found great value in bringing Alma into my classroom to teach the undergraduates how to take advantage of our library system, how to find and properly utilize resources in their own research.” 

While both acknowledge the loss Parada’s departure will be for Branner Library and the Doerr School, they are pleased that she will not be too far away in her AUL role. “The silver lining to Alma’s promotion is that she will still be responsible for Branner, and that, as a faculty member, I can be reassured that she will mentor her successor and keep a watchful eye over her former branch library,” adds Klemperer.

Parada will bring her extensive research background into this next chapter with the Libraries, “I am delighted to continue my journey at Stanford in this new leadership role and look forward to working with my colleagues to continue evolving our support of science and engineering research and scholarship in partnership with the entire team across the Libraries,” says Parada.

Amanda Whitmire, Head Librarian for Hopkins Marine Library, concurs, “Alma has shown consistent growth and development as Head of Branner Library, and I am confident in her leadership. I look forward to collaborating with her in this new role.”

As AUL in their respective areas, both Sussman and Parada will oversee collections development and public services including reference, instruction, and research consultations across multiple libraries and centers. They will also retain some aspects of their current roles. Sussman will continue to develop the Libraries’ holdings of French rarities and unicae for the Department of Special Collections while Parada will consider and oversee the addition of digital items, collections, and licensing for Stanford’s researchers in the sciences, engineering, and sustainability.

Together, they will lead teams of subject specialist librarians and staff who serve faculty and students across Stanford’s schools and departments. In their AUL roles, they will shape strategic priorities for building world-class collections in both digital and analog formats, developing innovative services, and fostering partnerships with academic departments to advance Stanford’s teaching and research missions.

These appointments reflect Stanford University Libraries’ commitment to supporting research across all disciplines while responding to the evolving needs of scholarship in the 21st century. With combined expertise spanning humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields, Sussman and Parada are well-positioned to lead Stanford University Libraries in these areas to support the research and teaching needs at Stanford.

About Stanford University Libraries
The Stanford University Libraries are a dynamic network of libraries, librarians, information technology specialists, and a vast collection of academic resources that are dedicated to supporting research, teaching, and learning at Stanford.  The Libraries hold over fifteen million items in various genres and formats, including e-resources, fifty subject specialists, twenty campus libraries and centers, and a broad spectrum of services. The Libraries’ archival collections span 96,000 linear feet of materials, 329,781 rare books and manuscripts, and 300 terabytes from hundreds of local and distant collections. The holdings include a large and growing collection of artistic photographs as well as photographs and documents about the history of civil rights in the Mexican American, African American, and Asian American communities, such as the documentary photographic collections of Bob Fitch and David Bacon. There are also political papers of both local and state politicians, such as the recently acquired papers of the late Senator Dianne Feinstein; historical maps featured in the David Rumsey Map Collection; and the incredibly diverse history covered in the Silicon Valley Archives. These archival collections and more are available at the Libraries in the Department of Special Collections and in the Stanford Digital Repository.  Finding aids to the Libraries’ archival collections are accessible in the Online Archive of California. The Libraries’ physical and digital spaces are designed to promote freedom and discovery, making knowledge-seeking more meaningful, more personal, and more connected than ever.  The opportunities for contributing to and transforming the commonwealth of knowledge are wide and deep at Stanford University Libraries.

Contact
Stanford University Libraries, Assistant University Librarian for External Relations Anh Ly anhly@stanford.edu

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ROME, June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — There are those who have conquered the world with an unforgettable feat, and those who have made their entire careers a model of loyalty and respect. These are the stars of the 30th edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award, whose winners were announced today in the Hall of Honour of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI).

From football to swimming, fencing and Paralympic skiing, as well as athletics, basketball, speed skating and volleyball: the 2026 edition of the Award brings together champions who have thrilled fans and sports enthusiasts around the world and who also continue to leave their mark outside the field of competition.

“We are delighted to be gathered here in the CONI Hall of Honour, a place steeped in the history of Italian sport and its values, to mark the 30th anniversary of the Fair Play Menarini Award. Thirty years is a significant milestone; it is history: a path built on solid foundations that has honoured many champions – says Luciano Buonfiglio, President of CONI – I’m particularly pleased today because three very young people are being honoured – a message that is more than just about medals. They demonstrate ethics, respect and integrity – important values to be upheld and promoted. These three young people are a fine example of this.”

Among the standout names of the 30th edition is Armand Duplantis, world record holder and pole vaulting legend. Representing the world of football will be Gianfranco Zola, one of the most beloved talents in the history of Italian sport. Joining them are Gregorio Paltrinieri, a leading figure in the world of swimming, Achille Polonara, the face of Italian basketball, Antonella Palmisano, queen of race walking, Chiara Mazzel, star of Paralympic skiing, and Daniele Garozzo, Olympic champion and ambassador for Italian fencing.

Also taking the stage at the Fair Play Menarini event will be Davide Ghiotto, Andrea Giovannini and Michele Malfatti, key figures in Italy’s speed skating successes, together with Simone Anzani, one of the most recognisable faces in Italian volleyball.

On July 2, Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence will host the awards ceremony of the 30th edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award. An evening to celebrate some of the best-known figures in international sport, this year broadcast once again in collaboration with Sky TG24. The event will be presented by Rachele Sangiuliano, Michele Cagiano and Omar Schillaci, alongside legendary sports commentators such as Federico Buffa.

Fair play knows no age limits, as demonstrated by Matteo Pasqualetti, Gloria Tinaburri and Alberto Belluzzi, winners of the “Young Athletes” Fair Play Menarini Award. Three young people who remind us all that fair play is a choice we make every day, both in competition and in life.

“For thirty years, the Fair Play Menarini International Award has been celebrating those champions who have left their mark not only through their victories, but also through the way that they approach sport – say Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi and Filippo Paganelli, Board Members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation – The stories of this year’s award winners remind us that respect, loyalty and fairness remain values with the power to unite different generations and resonate with those who love sport, both on and off the pitch.”

Ahead of the grand finale, the run-up to the 30th edition will come to Florence on 15 June with the Special Fiamme Gialle “Study and Sport” Award, dedicated to young talents who succeed in balancing their studies with competitive sport.

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