
Inspiring the Planet's Youth
"Professional masters. Practical experiences."
Bringing world-renowned scientists, artists, economists, physicians, authors, historians, filmmakers, and CEOs to California schools, community forums, and public symposia.
Where Exceptional Minds & Public Curiosity Meet
CASI advances education by bringing distinguished speakers to schools and community groups throughout California. We bring scientists, artists, physicians, historians, engineers, economists, authors, and accomplished entrepreneurs directly to your venue, while periodically hosting public symposia and private member-only events.
Our topics span California art history, atmospheric physics, marine biology, filmmaking, water storage policy, defense economics, and artificial intelligence. Our speakers have created and led some of the most successful enterprises and non-profits in California—including top scientists, advisors to the U.S. President and Congress, Olympic medalists, and world-renowned sculptors.

Ballerina in Red
Original Oil Painting by René Romero Schuler
New CASI Events Are Being Scheduled
We're lining up the next round of public symposia and member forums across Central California. Check the full calendar for the latest additions.
View Full CalendarRené Romero Schuler
Internationally Noted Painter & Sculptor

"Embracing the vulnerability and profound complexity of human connection through fine art."
René Romero Schuler is an internationally noted painter and sculptor, known for powerful and emotive female figurative works that explore vulnerability, and human connection. Her figures often depict ballerinas, and express beauty extant in all beings. Her works are directly connected to her strong belief in the power of femininity and to the stories women have to tell. Embracing the contrast between perceptions of femininity and the complexity of female lives–sometimes not conventionally “pretty”, but fascinating and powerful–her work offers and independent , strong and beautiful vision of womanhood that provokes and empowers other creatives. As a teen Rene found both solace and a profession in creating artworks, eventually building a robust business based upon commissioned work for designers of hospitality venues, while becoming a savvy successful entrepreneur. Her self-taught fine art practice continued as an outlet for her creativity and vision; her works on canvas epitomize the transforming of inner feelings into joy through the alchemy of art. Her present works exude an authenticity that fosters an emotional connection to audiences and collectors worldwide, bringing healing and joy to patrons who interact with her art. Presently she is represented by galleries across the USA, France, Portugal and Canada. Prior international exhibitions have included venues in Greece, Singapore, Italy, Lebanon, as well as major international art fairs across the United States, including: Art Miami, Expo Chicago, Palm Beach Contemporary, Art Hamptons, Red Dot, Dallas Art Fair and Art Silicon Valley. Her work is in the permanent collections of the Union League Club of Chicago, Loyola University Museum of Art, Grand Valley State University, Coral Springs Museum of Art and Saint Thomas University Museum of Art-Sardinas Gallery in Miami. Rene’s art and also her poetry and essays have been collected into a variety of published works, including: ‘’Rene Romero Schuler: Life and Works, 2013’’; "Rene ’Romero Schuler, Paintings 2016’’; Rene Romero Schuler, 2019’’; and ‘’Ladies, 2023’’.
Key Master Topics
Explore Topics by Subject
CASI content seamlessly bridges science, public policy, fine arts, and youth mentorship.
Energy & Environment
In-depth explorations of the electric grid, clean power, solar, atmospheric trends, climate science, and environmental protection.
- Electric grid: Will it Hold Up?
- Power Plants: What kind do we Need?
- Vehicle Choices to Achieve Environmental Goals
- How Clean is Electric Power?
Economics & Public Policy
Demystifying monetary theory, international trade, game theory, tax policy, and cost-benefit analysis in modern governance.
- World Monetary Theory De-Mystified
- Defense Resources Management
- NATO's 'Building Integrity Programme'
- International Trade & Finance
Art History & Culture
Celebrating California's rich creative heritage from indigenous rock art to the Early Carmel Art Colony and modern studio masters.
- Our Earliest Art: Indigenous Peoples
- Monterey Peninsula Early Art Colony
- Legacy of Multi-Media
- Monterey Architectural History
Business & Innovation
Navigating artificial intelligence, corporate responsibility, venture startup practicalities, marketing trends, and career paths.
- Artificial Intelligence & Future Tech
- So You Want to be an Entrepreneur?
- The Corporation as a Good Corporate Citizen
- How to keep your Team Communicating
Infrastructure & Water
Practical engineering solutions for water storage, desalination, road safety, and undergrounding utilities.
- Solar reclamation of a Quarry
- California Road Safety & Highways
- California Needs Water Storage
- Undergrounding Electricity for Safety and Beauty
Mentoring & Youth Education
Inspiring the next generation through financial literacy, Constitution studies, career guidance, and creative competitions.
- Connecting Youth with the Environment
- How to Open the Door to Adult Careers
- The United States Constitution & Civics
- Entrepreneur Inspiration versus Perspiration
Inspiring California's Next Generation of Thinkers & Creators
In partnership with the Carmel Youth Center and regional schools, CASI provides student art contests, monthly career mentoring, documentary competitions, and university scholarship support.
Student Art Contests
Annual competitions celebrating youth painting, writing, and filmmaking.
Youth Mentoring Series
Practical career insights, finance, and civics directly with industry leaders.
Carmel Youth PartnershipCASI Youth Mentoring Series 2026/27
Emphasis on personal finance, adult career entry, energy literacy, and creative self-discovery. Free for all local students.
View Mentoring ScheduleFeatured Articles & Research
Building Trust in Credit Markets
By Dr. Francois Melese
An economic examination of contract enforcement, credit rating transparency, and institutional trust in modern global finance.
The Monterey Pine: Ecology, History, and Resilience
By Dr. C. Michael Hogan
Pinus radiata is native to only three small coastal locations in California, yet it has become one of the most cultivated trees on Earth.
Art, Science, and Community Spirit in Carmel-by-the-Sea
By Lawrence Samuels
How a bohemian enclave of poets, painters, and naturalists created a blueprint for modern intellectual salons.
Become a CASI Member Today
Every membership dollar goes 100% to the CASI Youth Scholarship Program. Enjoy exclusive event ticket entitlements, member-only forums, and monthly publications.
