University of North Dakota Explores Human Centered Future of AI

(Photo by Adam Kurtz/UND Today)

(By Adam Kurtz. UND Today) – The University of North Dakota brought together faculty, students and community members March 20 for its second annual AI and Human Innovation Showcase, highlighting how artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching, research and creative work — and prompting deeper questions about what it means to be human in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Held in the Memorial Union, the event featured keynote speakers, panel discussions and presentations designed to explore both the opportunities and challenges of AI across disciplines. Throughout the day, speakers emphasized that while the technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the human element — creativity, ethics and critical thinking — remains essential.

“This whole session is about the connection of AI and humanity, and there’s no better way to be human than to engage more closely and more richly,” said UND President Andrew Armacost, who gave introductory remarks at the the event.

The showcase is part of UND’s AI and Human Innovation Initiative, a university-wide effort supported by the Provost’s Office that brings together faculty and students from across campus to examine AI through a human-centered lens.