Recently, Duke University has embarked on a transformative journey into artificial intelligence (AI) with the launch of the Provost’s Initiative. Announced by Provost Alec Gallimore on May 23, this initiative aims to facilitate coordinated discussions regarding the potential benefits and challenges associated with AI technologies.
Central to this initiative are four primary pillars: Life with AI, Trustworthy and Responsible AI, Sustainability in AI, and Advancing Discovery with AI. Each pillar has an associated advisory group tasked with presenting a comprehensive report by the end of the fall semester. This report will guide the overarching steering committee in determining effective AI usage across the University.
Yakut Gazi, vice provost for learning innovation and digital education, emphasized the proactive stance of Duke University, stating, “At Duke, we are not just consumers of AI. We are architects of AI.” This perspective underscores the institution’s unique capability to not only advance technical innovations but also examine the ethical and environmental implications of AI technologies. Gazi is joined by Michael Pencina, vice dean for data science and chief data scientist for Duke Health, and Joseph Salem, the Rita DiGiallonardo Holloway University librarian and vice provost for library affairs, to lead this vital initiative.
Despite Duke already hosting numerous AI-related programs and events, Gallimore has advocated for a more systematic approach to discussions surrounding AI utilization. Salem pointed out the necessity for coordinated efforts, indicating that the initiative seeks to supplement and support existing programs rather than infringe on them. This was initially catalyzed by the first AI Summit in April 2024, where faculty from various disciplines convened to discuss critical aspects of AI, leading to the establishment of the four main pillars.
What sets this initiative apart is its emphasis on sustainability and humanity, in addition to the usual focus on technological efficiency. The initiative will also incorporate three working groups concentrating on communication, engagement, and administrative functions, with specific deliverables aimed at assisting departments in effectively utilizing AI.
The engagement working group is particularly noteworthy, as it aspires to enhance community involvement in AI-related discussions and learning opportunities. This group recently partnered with the Research Triangle community to host a second AI Summit on May 30, alongside organizing training initiatives such as AI workshops and webinars.
In total, over 60 faculty and staff members will collaborate on the AI initiative, signaling a robust commitment to exploring AI from diverse perspectives within the University. “It’s easy to minimize the impact of good conversation and thought, but this is what universities do well,” remarked Salem, encapsulating the essence of the initiative.
Adding to this commitment, Duke University has also launched a pilot program with OpenAI, providing free, unlimited access to ChatGPT-4o for all undergraduate students, staff, faculty, and students from various professional schools, including the Nicholas School of the Environment and the Fuqua School of Business. This initiative underscores the University’s proactive approach to equipping its community with the tools necessary for navigating the intricate landscape of AI.
Furthermore, the upcoming introduction of DukeGPT—a University-managed platform tailored specifically for the Duke community—will integrate Duke data and best practices, ensuring privacy and robust data protection. This development, scheduled for early June, represents a significant stride toward creating a secure and supportive AI environment at Duke.
This AI initiative is the third such endeavor introduced by the Provost in the past 18 months, following initiatives addressing civil discourse in the Middle East and promoting free inquiry and belonging on campus. The frequency of these initiatives suggests a recognition of the increasing importance of strategic conversations surrounding complex issues like AI.
As Salem aptly put it, “The next few years are going to pass one way or the other…So, the goal… is to make the best use of that time as an institution, leverage what we already do well, but also fill in some of the gaps.” This forward-thinking attitude is essential as the University navigates the rapidly evolving landscape of AI.
For those interested in engaging with the intricacies of AI, Duke’s initiative presents numerous opportunities. From workshops to community summits, the initiative promises to foster a rich dialogue on leveraging AI technologies in ethical, innovative ways. The commitment to both advancing AI and considering its broader implications is not only relevant but imperative in today’s tech-driven world.
In summary, Duke University’s Provost’s Initiative represents a comprehensive approach to understanding and harnessing AI technologies. With structure, collaboration, and an emphasis on ethical considerations, this initiative seeks to empower the Duke community as both consumers and creators of AI. As the discourse surrounding AI continues to evolve, Duke stands at the forefront, ready to confront the challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
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