Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:
It has been just over a year since we gathered for the University-Wide Artificial Intelligence (AI) Symposium, Striking the Balance: AI Automation and Human Interaction in Teaching and Learning. That event marked a pivotal moment for 鶹ý by sparking ideas and facilitating conversations that continue to shape our concentrated efforts as we collectively position our University as a leader in artificial intelligence.
Since then, a robust foundation has been laid for AI research, teaching, and operational excellence. The AI Research Working Group united experts from across disciplines to tackle society’s most pressing challenges through AI-customized solutions. This initiative is fostering collaboration across departments and driving impactful outcomes that extend beyond academia. Additionally, the inaugural cohort of AI Teaching Fellows was selected with a mission to integrate AI into our curriculum, thereby ensuring students gain hands-on experience and a deep understanding of AI applications.
We proudly launched two AI certificates this fall – Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence in Data Science – equipping both students and professionals with the skills necessary in today’s AI-driven landscape. Looking ahead, our AI Teaching Fellows will continue their vital work by developing additional certificates and creating new pathways for learners to build expertise in this rapidly evolving field.
At the heart of our overarching efforts is MonarchMind, an innovative generative AI platform that integrates multiple advanced AI models. Set to launch this semester, MonarchMind will enhance academic learning, streamline administrative processes, and provide personalized support across the University. Alongside MonarchMind, other groundbreaking projects are being piloted, including 鶹ý AssistNOW, an AI-based helpdesk platform, and additional AI-powered tools aimed at improving the experiences of our students, faculty, and staff. These initiatives demonstrate our dedication to fostering a responsive and forward-thinking campus environment.
Our vision for the future also includes the Centennial Cluster Initiative, which seeks to recruit 25 new faculty members by bringing expertise in healthcare, autonomous systems, data science, and ethical AI governance. This initiative will further strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, expand our research capabilities, and enhance our educational offerings.
These accomplishments underscore a University-wide commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership in AI. By unifying our AI efforts, we ensure that our work is impactful, ethical, and aligned with our long-standing mission of advancing learning, research, and community engagement.
To further elevate 鶹ý’s role as a thought leader in AI, we are partnering with a strategic communications firm to amplify our national presence. Beginning this month, our “Future-Ready AI” campaign will be featured across prominent platforms, such as The Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher Education, The Hechinger Report, LinkedIn, and more. We will also relaunch our AI webpages to fully showcase our leadership and vision for integrating AI into higher education.
I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished thus far, and I extend my deepest appreciation and lasting gratitude to the involved campus partners for their dedication and passion. We are not just keeping pace with the future of technology; we are defining it. Together, we are building a University that will continue to lead, innovate, and serve in lasting and profound ways for many years to come. At 鶹ý, we are forward-focused and future-ready!
With Monarch Pride,
Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President