CMU forms advisory board to oversee AI strategy

Central Michigan University has created an internal Artificial Intelligence Advisory Board to help guide the ethical and responsible use of AI across campus. The board, established by President Neil MacKinnon, is part of the university's effort to develop institutionwide policies and best practices for artificial intelligence. The move follows the appointment of Ben Andera as CMU's first special adviser for AI. In a letter appointing board members, MacKinnon said the group will promote understanding of the university's AI strategy while emphasizing shared governance and transparency. The board also will serve as a forum for students, faculty and staff to learn about AI, offer feedback, raise concerns and help shape university priorities. "AI is not new at CMU, and numerous members of our university community have been using tools for several years with no central coordination or oversight," Andera said. "Our goal is to take the recommendations from the Embracing AI Go Grant initiative and ensure that everyone at CMU has opportunities to use AI in ways that advance our mission, support student success, and adhere to ethical, legal and policy expectations." The advisory board will provide recommendations to the president and senior leadership on AI-related issues, including teaching and learning, academic integrity, research, data stewardship and administrative operations. Andera will chair the board. The inaugural members are: Razi Iqbal, Department of Computer Science faculty member. Erica Johnson, associate vice president for University Engagement and Student Affairs. Steve Juris, director of institutional assessment and curriculum in the Office of Curriculum and Instructional Support and biology faculty member. Gabrielle Likavec, teaching and learning consultant...