Among the courses taught by the center is an improvisational acting class that teaches scientists ways of communicating their thoughts clearly to others.

WSJ: Alan Alda wants scientists to cut out the jargon

Mr. Grupper (pronounced "grouper") is sufficiently in demand (he also records audio books) that he really doesn't need a day job, but he's got one: He's the founder and sole proprietor of Act Professional, a consulting firm that uses acting and improvisational techniques to help businesspeople get better at making presentations and get better at presenting themselves.

WSJ: A Broadway Performer Helps Make Business an Act of Will