Tesla Science Foundation Conference in New York 2026

In mid-January 2026, New York hosted a gathering of distinguished creators, scientists, and cultural professionals, united by values that connect knowledge, innovation, and the legacy of Nikola Tesla. The conference, organized by the Tesla Science Foundation on January 14 at the prestigious Hotel New Yorker, recognized the contributions of individuals and institutions whose work makes a lasting impact in their respective fields. Approximately 80 participants from diverse areas - including science, emerging technologies, literature, visual arts, film, and cultural diplomacy - attended, bringing together expertise that celebrates and advances Tesla’s universal heritage through contemporary expression and international collaboration. 

Among the attendees were educators from American Paradigm Schools, who have long been active partners of the foundation, promoting Tesla’s legacy through educational and creative projects. All four APS schools participate in the Introducing Tesla to Schools in America initiative, which gives students the opportunity to explore Tesla’s ideas and principles through hands-on activities and interdisciplinary projects. Their involvement further highlights APS’s commitment to S.T.E.A.M. education, fostering global collaboration, and encouraging students’ curiosity, creativity, and courage to explore the world around them and think innovatively. 

During the conference, projects were presented that powerfully connected education, art, and Tesla’s ideas. A standout educational initiative involved nine schools across the United States and was symbolically represented through the dove TESA and the dove NIKI. The names were created by children of the Serbian diaspora, Petar Ignjatović and Katarina Ignjatović, winners of an international competition.

Among the honored institutions, Beopolis University for Higher Education received the recognition “In Recognition of Outstanding Contribution to Tesla’s People”, acknowledging its role in strengthening educational and cultural connections and promoting the values internationally associated with Nikola Tesla.

The artistic program was marked by a stage performance by Dr. Dušanka Ivanov and her team, in which young performers combined ballet and karate into a dynamic and original stage form. The exceptional audience response highlighted this performance as a strong example of discipline, creativity, and talent within the Serbian diaspora.

In addition, among the awarded educational and artistic works were the educational film Nikola Tesla by Rade Komazec, as well as the project Silence of Currents by Jelena Gradimir, both recognized for their contemporary approach to interpreting and preserving Tesla’s legacy.