peer(s) – n. a person who belongs to the same age group or social group as someone else
collaborating – v. working with another person or group in order to achieve or do something
academic – adj. of or relating to schools and education
innovation – n. the act or process of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods
defies – v. goes against something
oversight – n. the act or job of directing work that is being done
attract – v. to cause someone to choose to do or be involved in something
founding – v. beginning or creating something that is meant to last for a long time