Author: Maya Mishra
Maya is a student employee with Technology Services.
As interest in generative AI continues to grow across higher education, the University of Illinois is helping students, faculty, and staff navigate this ever-changing landscape through practical and educational resources. That effort was on display April 15 during the Navigating AI Together: Conversations on Teaching, Research, and Responsibility forum, an AI summit jointly sponsored by the U. of I. Faculty Senate and the Office of the Provost.
The forum brought together units from across the university to share tools, services and support related to artificial intelligence. Through keynote panels, breakout sessions, and an AI resource showcase, attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with experts and learn how AI is being implemented thoughtfully across the U of I.
Participating showcase groups included:
- CITL
- Illinois Human Resources
- Office of the CIO Enterprise AI Support Services
- University Library
- Office of Data Science Research
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications
- Illinois Computes
Support and resources to using AI safely
Among the featured participants at the event was the Office of the CIO’s Enterprise Gen AI team to discuss and answer questions about Enterprise Gen AI tools, implementation, and safety. We spoke with Matt McNeilly, Associate Director of IT Client Services, and Nick Vance, Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships, who help guide generative AI efforts across the university. According to them, one of the most common questions they received throughout the event was simple but important, “How do I use AI safely?”
Their answer pointed back to an important resource available at the U of I: the AI apps page. This webpage helps users compare best usage of all of the university-approved AI tools, understand available licenses, and review what types of data can be used within each platform. Read more about how to navigate the AI apps page.
McNeilly and Vance’s team is available as an ongoing generative AI resource, offering training, consultations, and support for teams looking to build customized AI powered solutions. The team’s effort reflects a broader goal of helping students, faculty, and staff leverage AI in ways that can increase productivity, support creativity, and keep users safe.
As AI continues to evolve, the University of Illinois is committed to keeping the campus community informed and supported for whatever may come next.
Visit the AI Apps page to learn more about university-approved apps and explore AI training and resources.