The University of Alabama in Huntsville recently served as host for the Alabama Commission on Higher Education’s Artificial Intelligence in Alabama Higher Education Conference. On March 1, more than 200 faculty, staff and researchers from colleges across Alabama gathered alongside business professionals on UAH’s campus to discuss the evolving AI landscape in higher education and beyond.
The one-day event featured presentations from academic and industry leaders, panel and roundtable discussions, and workshops. More than a dozen faculty, staff and researchers from the University of Alabama System’s three universities and UA System affiliate Southern Research delivered presentations or participated in expert discussions.
Dr. Ravi Pendse, vice president for information technology and chief information officer at the University of Michigan, delivered the keynote presentation, entitled “Generative AI – A Force for Positive Disruption.” He asserted that generative AI has the potential to be as transformative to society as the internet, and educators must ensure students can utilize these tools effectively in order to succeed in their future careers.
Other sessions covered topics such as AI in teaching and research, AI at HBCUs, ethical and privacy responsibilities, and industry-focused breakouts on higher education, business, defense and health care.
Each of the UA System’s institutions are national leaders in providing premier education and research, making UAH, located in the heart of high-tech Huntsville, a perfect venue for learning and exchange with professionals from across the state and nation. Remaining at the forefront of emerging innovations such as AI is vital to the UA System’s commitment to improve education across the state and prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.
Visit the Alabama Commission on Higher Education’s website for more information and photos from the event.