Florida A&M University (FAMU) is advancing its efforts to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its academic and research programs. The university recently hosted an AI forum led by President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., where faculty, staff, and external partners gathered to discuss strategies for embedding AI throughout the institution.
“Thank you for taking time today to help me figure out how best to support you all as we work to ensure our focus on AI is not delayed,” said Johnson during the event. “As we implement AI not just in our curriculum but across our entire organization, we want to bring together the wisdom within FAMU and insights from outside the University.”
Johnson encouraged broader participation among university colleagues as FAMU seeks to expand AI literacy and engagement.
The forum included a presentation by Renata Rawlings-Goss, executive director of Georgia Tech’s Institute for Data Engineering and Science (IDEaS) and a FAMU alumna. Johnson had previously visited IDEaS during a student-recruitment trip in Atlanta, underlining FAMU’s commitment to connecting with national innovation networks.
“You want to be able to serve more students. AI can help with that,” Rawlings-Goss said at the forum, emphasizing technology’s role in increasing access and efficiency.
Students at FAMU are already gaining hands-on experience with AI technologies. Engineering students have developed a robotic arm powered by AI, which provides practical learning opportunities. Darryl Tookes, director of the Adderley Music Institute, noted: “The technology we’re working with in the Adderley Music Institute is giving students real, hands-on experience with tools shaping the future of the music industry. Our students are learning to create, analyze and innovate using the same technology professionals rely on in major studios.”
FAMU has also formed partnerships aimed at expanding research opportunities. One such collaboration is with Sandia National Laboratories—a U.S. Department of Energy center focused on national security and engineering—which brings expertise from areas including nanotechnology and infrastructure resilience. Joint projects include research on nanoscale materials and rapid pathogen-detection platforms.
These partnerships are intended to broaden career paths for first-generation college students, those from underrepresented backgrounds, and STEM majors.
The university’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council continues its work identifying ways to responsibly integrate AI across academic programs, campus operations, and student services.
Additionally, through grant funding from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, FAMU’s Cyber Policy Institute is growing its initiatives related to both cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
“These leaders were both Life Gets Better Scholars. What a testament to FAMU’s impact on the world,” Johnson said regarding returning alumni involved in these efforts. “They began their journeys here on this campus, and we’re excited to have them back. We are striving to make an impact not only on our students, but on our community and our state as well.”
