AI Week: Exploring the Future of Artificial Intelligence

AI Week at Alfred University: Navigating the Future of Innovation

Alfred University is proud to host its inaugural AI Week, an expansive exploration into the transformative power of artificial intelligence across a myriad of academic disciplines. From April 14-18, the campus will become a vibrant hub, bringing together experts, faculty, and students to collectively examine how AI is reshaping creativity, research, and society itself. This isn't just an academic exercise; it's an opportunity for everyone, regardless of their current understanding of AI, to engage directly with the technologies and ideas that are defining our future.

Unlocking Practical Benefits and Actionable Insights

AI Week is designed to deliver immediate value. Attendees will gain access to leading artificial intelligence experts, participate in hands-on workshops, and witness compelling demonstrations of AI applications. Whether your curiosity lies in machine learning, AI-driven art, ethical implications, or practical applications in business and industry, this week serves as your essential gateway to understanding how AI is shaping the world and how you can actively contribute to its evolution.

AI in Business, Technology, and Critical Thinking

The week kicks off with vital discussions on AI's role in professional advancement. Brian Maguire, a principal solutions architect at Amazon Web Services with extensive experience, will lead a seminar on "Beyond the Algorithm: Enhancing Critical Thinking in the Age of AI." He'll share insights on leveraging AI to accelerate business growth, drawing from his two decades leading an AI company. Later in the week, Alfred University alumnus Matthew Versaggi '87, a Presidential Innovation Fellow (PIF) in AI stationed with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service (CMS), offers a unique perspective. As an AI expert since the mid-1980s, Versaggi will detail how he's charged with proliferating artificial intelligence throughout CMS operations, providing invaluable insights into strategic AI implementation at the highest levels of government and industry.

Exploring Creativity and Ethics in AI-Generated Art

AI's impact on artistic expression is a central theme. Andrew Deutsch '90, professor of expanded media, will share his latest work exploring AI-generated imagery and the complex topic of censorship. His personal medical experiences have fueled a series of images created with generative AI, offering a poignant look at the intersection of technology, health, and art. Following this, Professor Xiaowen Chen will delve into "The Nature of Creativity in the Age of AI," examining how AI influences artistic practice, from creative expression to audience engagement. His talk, referencing a 2024 exhibition he curated, will consider AI-assisted art, including generative models and reinterpreting traditional techniques, while crucially addressing AI ethics and bias in art's future.

Transforming Education and Research with AI

For educators and researchers, AI Week offers direct, actionable advice. Chloe Hansen, director of the Writing Center, will facilitate a crucial discussion on "AI and Writing Pedagogy," considering how professors can adapt their approaches to writing instruction in light of AI. This is a vital conversation for all disciplines, exploring the enduring value of teaching writing. Additionally, the Alfred University Libraries staff will invite participation in "Evaluating AI: Beta Testing AU Libraries New Research Tool," a practical session that highlights immediate benefits for students and faculty seeking to enhance their research capabilities with cutting-edge AI tools.

AI for Real-World Innovation and Workforce Development

The week also showcases AI's tangible impact on critical sectors. John Simmins '84, PhD '90, research faculty in the Inamori School of Engineering, will provide an AR/VR demo and lecture focused on AI's role in the GE Vernova Advanced Power Grid Lab. This initiative, supported by significant grants and software licenses, prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry by integrating machine learning technology into their training. This session underscores how AI is not just theoretical but a cornerstone for addressing real-world challenges and developing the workforce of tomorrow.

Shaping the Future Together

Beyond individual sessions, AI Week fosters a collective dialogue. The AI Taskforce will provide updates and host a panel discussion, outlining the university's strategic approach to AI. Furthermore, the AI Sub-Committee will lead "Pondering Pedagogy," an essential discussion on how AI is used beneficially in the classroom, how it influences teaching methods, and what future needs faculty anticipate. This collaborative approach ensures that Alfred University is at the forefront of integrating AI responsibly and effectively across its academic landscape.

Be Part of the AI Revolution

AI Week at Alfred University is more than just a series of talks; it's a call to action. It’s an invitation to engage with the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, to understand its multifaceted implications, and to discover your place within this evolving landscape. By participating, you gain invaluable knowledge, connect with leading minds, and equip yourself with the insights needed to navigate and contribute to the AI-driven future.