Dear Colleagues,

As you may recall, the University hosted two campuswide open forums in September to gather your thoughts and ideas on Artificial Intelligence and how UTC can prepare to meet the opportunities and challenges it will bring.

I am honored to be the connector for the great work already happening at UTC around this sometimes-disruptive innovation. Your feedback led to some initial areas of focus that will lay the foundation for UTC to take advantage of what AI can offer, preparing our students for the workplace and best serving the University's mission.


First, to make information readily available, we are developing a dedicated website to compile and share developments on the AI initiatives at UTC. Initially, this information will include news and stories of how members of the campus community are exploring the use of AI; along with dates for upcoming campus and community events to increase awareness.



Meanwhile, we are also in the process of providing access to a general-use AI platform that protects data and intellectual property. The platform will be available to students, faculty and staff.  There will be more communication on this as the rollout progresses.



Also in development is a process for submitting proposals for innovation funding ideas-ideas that may be centered on AI or propose a completely different technology or approach.  More information will be coming on that process very soon from Chancellor Angle.



An academic led committee will be built over time to evaluate AI-based opportunities for the classroom, further curriculum development and potential for funding allocations.



Clearly, this initiative is of both an unprecedented nature and scope, involving a wide range of stakeholders, partners and media outlets. Helping our diverse communities understand these complex concepts towards the goal of awareness and adoption will be daunting. I am excited to announce that Gina Stafford, currently Associate Vice Chancellor for UTC Communications and Marketing, is joining me to lead the communication and engagement strategy for this and other strategic initiatives.  You will see her connected to many exciting ventures soon.



This is an exciting time and a great opportunity in the life of the University, and I look forward to your partnership in making this and other transformational initiatives come to great success for UTC and those we serve.



Vicki Farnsworth