AI Initiative
Through prioritizing education, research, and societal impact, the AI initiative will contribute significantly to preparing the next generation of AI professionals, accelerating breakthroughs in AI, and fostering ethical and responsible AI.
Through interdisciplinary engagement and partnerships, the AI initiative addresses four overarching pillars: ethics and societal benefits, research and innovation, education and workforce development, and operational efficiency. These pillars guide our efforts in developing and harnessing AI's transformative potential for the betterment of society and our nation. The AI Advisory Council is leading the implementation of the AI Initiative.
Pillars
Ethics and Societal Benefits
As AI becomes increasingly pervasive in society, it is crucial to identify and address ethical considerations and promote access while providing societal benefits to augment human performance.
Research and Innovation
To harness the promises of AI, faculty and students, along with external partners, will advance the frontiers of AI through cutting-edge research and innovation across various AI domains, including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, cybersecurity, and responsible AI.
Education and Workforce Development
All learners must be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience necessary to thrive in AI by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating AI concepts into diverse fields, including computer science, engineering, mathematics, healthcare, social sciences, and the arts and humanities.
Operational Efficiency
The use of AI-driven tools, techniques, and models can improve efficiency in a variety of business processes across the University, providing the opportunity for staff to focus on more strategic endeavors.
How Will We Accomplish This?
To amplify ethics and unlock societal benefits, the AI Initiative will foster discussions, workshops, and research activities focused on ethical AI, fairness, transparency, and bias. We will advocate for responsible AI deployment and democratization, engaging with policymakers and community stakeholders to ensure that AI technologies benefit our entire society and nation.
To foster research and innovations, faculty and students, along with industry partners, government agencies, and other academic institutions, will accelerate the development of AI, providing impactful discoveries and solutions to global challenges.
To prepare students for the AI workforce, we will expand academic programs, courses, workshops, and training opportunities tailored to various levels, from introductory to advanced expertise.
To enhance operational efficiency, we will evaluate areas of natural fit to increase capacity in operational areas such as enrollment management, financial aid, the registrar, human resources, and accounts payable.