UW Establishes AI Across the University Commission

The University of Wyoming has established the President's AI Across the University Commission, a strategic initiative to guide and coordinate the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across academics, research and administration.

Building on existing efforts in the Office of the Provost and elsewhere, the commission will provide leadership in guiding AI policy development; supporting educators, researchers and staff in deploying AI best practices; and fostering an understanding of AI's impact across the entire university. Its mission is to ensure that AI adoption at UW aligns with the university's strategic priorities; meets the needs of faculty, researchers, staff and students; and is implemented ethically and compliantly.

The 12-member commission -- chaired by Jeff Hamerlinck, associate director of the School of Computing and current President's Fellow -- includes people from across the university, including representatives of the Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Associated Students of UW. The duration of the commission is open-ended, with initial appointment terms for commission members running through Dec. 31, 2026.

"AI is transforming every aspect of society, and UW is committed to leading responsibly in this space," President Ed Seidel says. "This commission will ensure that our approach to AI reflects our mission and priorities, and positions the university for success in teaching, research and service to the state."

Five thematic committees within the commission will further broaden campus participation and input, including the Teaching and Learning with AI Committee, a group already established by the Office of the Provost with more than 30 members and several active working groups. Other committees will focus on academic hiring regarding AI; AI-related research and development opportunities; AI services and tools; and external collaborations.

"With how quickly the AI landscape is evolving, it's important to be coordinated in both identifying and understanding needs -- and responding in an appropriate and adequately resourced manner," Hamerlinck says. "The commission aims to facilitate such an approach."

The commission's first major deliverable, "UW and AI Today," is scheduled to be completed by June 15, providing a strategic framework for UW's AI policy, investments and best practices over the ensuing two years.

AI is transforming industries, education and public services worldwide. For Wyoming, embracing AI is critical to future economic diversification and workforce development, as well as improved government operations, health care delivery and resource management, benefiting communities across the state, UW leaders say. By leading in responsible AI adoption, UW aims to empower Wyoming's people and institutions to thrive in a technology-driven future.

Additional details on the commission's work will be available soon on the UW Office of the President webpages.