AI Working Group
U of I has been actively exploring the opportunities and challenges presented by generative AI since it rose to prominence in 2022. In response to its rapid adoption across research, teaching and administrative functions, the university established the Artificial Intelligence Working Group (AIWG) in 2024 to coordinate efforts, gather campus-wide input and develop strategic recommendations. Through listening sessions with faculty, staff and students, the AIWG identified key priorities, including the need for clear AI usage guidelines, ethical considerations, AI literacy education and improved access to AI tools and training. The group also assessed institutional AI initiatives based on cost and impact, recommending a phased approach to implementation. These recommendations serve as a final step for the AIWG, with responsibility to be passed on to an Artificial Intelligence Execution Group in the spring of 2025.
AI Working Group Members
Champion
- Scott Green, President
Chair
- Ben Hunter, Dean of Libraries
Executive Sponsor
- Chandra Zenner Ford, Office of the President
Execution Team
- Torrey Lawrence, Provost
- Dan Ewart, Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer
- Barrie Robison, Professor; Director IIDS (Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences)
- Lucas Sheneman, Director of Research Computing and Data Services
Members
- Bert Baumgaertner, Associate Professor of Philosophy, CLASS
- Jean-Marc Gauthier, Virtual Technology & Design Program Director, Associate Professor
- Douglas Habib, Assistant Director for Programming, CETL
- Michael Overton, Associate Professor; Associate Director IIDS (Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences)
- Barbara Petty, Associate Dean and Director of U of I Extension, CALS
- Brad Ritts, Senior Associate Vice President for Research and Economic Development
- Dilshani Sarathchandra, Associate Professor, CLASS
- Brian Smentkowski, Professor of Political Science and Director of CETL
- Adam Stoltz, Director of Enrollment Marketing, University Communications and Marketing
- Aleksander Vakanski, Associate Professor, College of Engineering
- Min Xian, Associate Professor, College of Engineering