About the Academy
An independent institution dedicated to advancing human potential through evidence-based cognitive science.
Advanced Learning Academy is an independent research and development institution focused on advancing how intelligence, learning, and human performance are understood and measured. The Academy was established to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical, real-world assessment.
From its earliest work to its current flagship systems, the Academy has remained committed to building tools that are durable, scalable, and ethically grounded—capable of serving individuals, educators, researchers, and institutions alike.
Our Mission
To develop responsible, real-world measurement systems that illuminate human capability, support learning across the lifespan, and respect the complexity of intelligence.
Areas of Focus
Applied Intelligence
Measuring how people reason, solve problems, and make decisions in authentic real-world contexts.
Educational Measurement
Creating assessment tools that support learning and development rather than simply ranking performance.
Cognitive Aging
Understanding how cognitive function changes across the lifespan and how to support healthy aging.
Large-Scale Engagement
Designing systems that reach millions while maintaining scientific integrity and individual relevance.
Institutional History
Over more than three decades, the Academy's work has evolved alongside changes in education, media, and public understanding of cognition. Key milestones include:
1996
Digital Innovation
Created the world's first syndicated digital crossword, pioneering cognitive content for the internet age.
1997
Universal Crossword Launch
Founded the Universal Crossword syndicate, eventually reaching newspapers and digital platforms worldwide.
1999
The Puzzle Society
Founded The Puzzle Society with Universal Press Syndicate's Uclick division, creating a hub for cognitive engagement.
2001
Reader's Digest Partnership
Became the first crossword editor in the 100-year history of Reader's Digest magazine.
2003
USA Today Editorship
Became the second crossword editor of USA Today, one of America's most widely read newspapers.
2006
Television Production
Became puzzle producer for Merv Griffin's Crosswords, writing all 225 episodes solo.
2024
Real World IQ Launch
Launched Real World IQ as a comprehensive assessment platform measuring applied intelligence across six cognitive domains.
2025
Real Bio Age Development
Created the world's most advanced consumer biological age assessment—Real Bio Age—analyzing 12 health domains with 94 research-backed questions and environmental data from 33,000+ ZIP codes.