Florida A&M University (FAMU) recently hosted the Youth AI Summit 2.0: Future Forward, an event that highlighted the university’s focus on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) across its academic programs. The summit was organized by FAMU Provost Allyson Watson, Ph.D., in partnership with the Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and took place at the FAMU Developmental Research School campus.
The event is part of a broader initiative by FAMU’s Division of Academic Affairs to embed emerging technologies, ethical inquiry, and hands-on learning throughout its educational offerings. This approach extends from pre-collegiate engagement through graduate and professional studies. Rather than treating AI as a separate subject, the summit positioned it as a fundamental skill for students navigating today’s rapidly changing global economy.
Collaboration with the FAMU Cyber Policy Institute added depth to the summit’s academic focus. Darryl Scriven, Ph.D., executive director of the institute, delivered a keynote address emphasizing ethical AI development, research practices informed by policy awareness, and alignment with FAMU’s mission as a public land-grant institution.
“Supporting and promoting artificial intelligence in education is essential to preparing students for the world they will inherit,” said Watson. “By embedding AI literacy, ethical decision-making, and innovation across our academic ecosystem, we are positioning FAMU students to lead, adapt and thrive in an increasingly complex global society.”
Attendees participated in interactive stations featuring robotics, drones, VEX technology, digital design projects, AI-driven research applications, ethics discussions and creative uses of technology. These activities reflected strategic goals related to experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration within Academic Affairs. The INNOVATE framework used during the summit emphasized skills such as analytical reasoning and adaptability—qualities that support student achievement both during their studies and after graduation.
The Youth AI Summit 2.0 demonstrates FAMU’s commitment to preparing students not just as users but also as ethical innovators who can shape their fields and communities through responsible use of new technologies.
