SAN ANGELO, TX - Angelo State University has launched a new Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence (AI-COE) with the goal to integrate and infuse artificial intelligence (AI) across every academic discipline and operational unit on campus, as well as into the greater West Texas community.
The AI-COE will be housed in The Nexus at Angelo State facility on Sunset Drive, and its development is supported by $5 million in non-formula funding recently approved by the Texas Legislature, to be split over the next two fiscal years.
Coupled with ASU's existing AI academic programs and infrastructure, the funding will allow the AI-COE to expand its auspices well beyond just the Computer Science Department to initially also include Information Technology, the Innovation and Research Hub, and the College of Graduate Studies and Research. Eventually, it will involve faculty and staff from across campus, as well as local business owners and outside researchers, who are looking at potential uses of AI in many different areas.
The AI-COE will also serve as a collaborative hub for ASU students, faculty and staff across all academic disciplines - from computer science and business to agriculture, education, health sciences and the arts - where they will explore how AI can enhance learning, solve real-world problems and drive regional economic development.
"Artificial intelligence is reshaping every aspect of our world - from how we learn and teach to how we work and live," said ASU President Ronnie Hawkins. "Angelo State is committed to preparing our students, faculty and community to thrive in this new era with innovation, integrity and purpose. Our vision is to provide world-class instruction and equipment to lead West Texas in AI education and industry collaboration. But as we embrace the promise of AI, we must also proceed with caution and care. Ethics, transparency and community engagement will be the cornerstones of our approach."
Angelo State's AI academic programs will also benefit from AI-COE development. ASU recently added new bachelor's and master's degrees in AI that can be completed 100% online, as well as an online Certificate in AI Policy and Ethics. More details are available at angelo.edu/computer-science.
Much like AI itself, Angelo State's AI-COE will also continuously evolve. As it grows, it will further develop its services to support K-12 outreach, continuing education, and expanded collaborative research that empowers communities and strengthens Texas' position in the global AI landscape.
The Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence is also another example of why securing funding to support new and enhanced resources for innovative academic, research and collaborative initiatives is one of the top priorities of ASU's ongoing "Leading the Charge" capital campaign.
More details on the campaign and ways to contribute are available online at angelo.edu/leading-the-charge or by calling the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 325-942-2116.
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