OU announces first university-wide chief artificial intelligence officer as part of next phase of strategic plan

OU Pioneers New Era: Appoints First University-Wide Chief AI Officer to Lead Transformative Vision

The University of Oklahoma has announced a landmark appointment, ushering in a new phase of its ambitious "Lead On, University" strategic plan. In a move set to redefine its academic and research landscape, OU has named Dr. Shishir Shah as its inaugural university-wide Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) and Director of the Gallogly College of Engineering School of Computer Sciences. This pivotal dual role underscores OU's profound commitment to integrating artificial intelligence and data science at every level, preparing its community for a future increasingly shaped by advanced technologies.

Why OU is Doubling Down on AI: A Strategic Imperative

This critical appointment is a cornerstone of the university’s next strategic phase, focused intensely on equipping students to navigate the complexities and opportunities of artificial intelligence post-graduation. OU's vision extends beyond mere literacy; it aims to cultivate responsible, informed AI users who possess the acumen to leverage this technology for maximum societal impact. By adopting a comprehensive, institution-wide strategy, OU is positioning itself to lead in AI innovation, cutting-edge research, transformative education, and practical implementation across all disciplines. This isn't just about keeping pace; it's about setting the pace.

Meet the Visionary: Dr. Shishir Shah

Dr. Shishir Shah brings an impressive pedigree to this groundbreaking role. Prior to joining OU, he served as a distinguished professor and chair of the computer science department at the University of Houston, where he also founded and directed its highly regarded Quantitative Imaging Laboratory. His extensive career includes significant leadership contributions in two startup companies, following his initial faculty tenure at Wayne State University. Dr. Shah's expertise is widely recognized; in 2023, he was honored as a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. With three edited books and over 200 publications to his name, along with active service on the editorial boards of four peer-reviewed journals, his appointment signals a robust dedication to academic excellence and practical application in AI.

Unlocking Demonstrable Benefits: Education, Research, and Innovation

The establishment of the CAIO role, under Dr. Shah's guidance, promises a cascade of benefits for the entire OU community and beyond:

• Reimagined Education: The university is actively reimagining its curriculum and academic offerings to seamlessly integrate AI across the entire student experience. This ensures that graduates are not just familiar with AI tools but are empowered to critically engage with, develop, and ethically deploy AI solutions in their chosen professions.
• Accelerated Research: OU is already a significant hub for AI-based research, with approximately one-quarter of its research portfolio dedicated to AI across diverse fields, from advancing legal education to pioneering clinical imaging techniques. Dr. Shah's leadership will further catalyze these efforts, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and breakthrough discoveries.
• Strategic Innovation Funding: The university's commitment to AI innovation is further evidenced by its Data Institute for Societal Challenges. This institute, dedicated to fostering convergent research teams in data science, AI, and machine learning, recently awarded nearly $200,000 in pilot seed funding to 20 new AI-focused projects. This direct investment underscores OU's proactive approach to nurturing new ideas and impactful applications.

Key Takeaways and Practical Advice for the AI Era

This strategic move by OU offers valuable insights and prompts for engagement:

• For Students: Embrace the evolving curriculum. Seek out opportunities to learn about AI's ethical implications, practical applications, and how it can enhance your specific field of study. Your future career will undoubtedly intersect with AI; proactive learning is your greatest asset.
• For Faculty & Researchers: Explore avenues for collaboration with the Gallogly School of Computer Sciences and the Data Institute. The university's investment signals a rich environment for interdisciplinary projects and funding opportunities.
• For Industry & Community Partners: OU is actively seeking to expand its global impact in AI. Consider partnership opportunities that leverage OU's growing expertise and innovative research capacity to address complex societal and industry challenges.

Under Dr. Shah’s anticipated leadership, the University of Oklahoma is not merely adapting to the future; it is actively shaping it. By prioritizing ethical and transformative uses of AI, OU is poised to significantly expand its global influence and enhance its capacity to tackle society’s most intricate problems. This is a clear call to action for everyone within and connected to the university to engage with, learn from, and contribute to this exciting new chapter in AI-driven progress.