Advancing the Hill: New AI Council to Define the Future of Learning and Operations at FAMU
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is officially entering a new era of digital transformation. The University is moving beyond traditional education with an AI Council to create a "Human + AI" ecosystem designed to revolutionize everything from classroom engagement to institutional efficiency.
The council’s main goal is to help FAMU become a leader in technology, instead of just responding to changes. By concentrating on three main areas: teaching, research, and how the university works, the university wants to improve what it offers to students and the community.
Deidre Melton (Photo by Michael Cork)
Associate Vice President for Enterprise Risk Management Deidre Melton, a key leader of the council, says this project is a big change in strategy, not just a basic software update.
"Our focus is about reimagining how the university delivers value across every part of the institution and being strategic with the AI tools selected to help drive that value," Melton stated. "At its core, this work is about moving FAMU from reacting to change to leading it—building a connected, intelligent ecosystem that improves how we teach, operate, and serery day."
For students, the impact of the AI Council will be felt immediately through "always-on" academic support and personalized learning pathways. The council is also focused on helping students succeed in their careers for years to come. The goal is to make sure that every FAMU student, no matter what they study, learns a lot about AI before they graduate.
Melton, who is also the deputy chief operating officer, says that learning about AI is very important for today’s jobs, and everyone needs to know it.
"We are building a Human + AI institution that produces graduates who are not just prepared but positioned as force multipliers in the workforce," Melton explained. "They will enter their careers with strong AI literacy and the ability to work alongside intelligent systems."
While innovation is the engine of the council, ethical resilience remains the steering wheel. To keep data safe and ensure honesty in schoolwork, the university is setting a clear set of rules to make sure everyone is held responsible. The philosophy remains clear: AI is meant to amplify human potential, not replace it.
The quad.
Students on "The Hill" are already taking notice of the shift and the opportunities it presents for their future careers. Jordan Rivers, a senior public relations major, believes the integration of these tools will give FAMU students a distinct advantage in a competitive job market.
"As a communications student, seeing the university take a lead on AI is exciting because these are the tools we’re already seeing in the industry," Rivers said. "Having the support to learn how to use AI ethically and effectively before I graduate gives me a lot more confidence heading into my first job."
Over the next five years, FAMU aims to become a top leader in AI among all HBCUs. By using these skills in everything it does, FAMU is not just keeping up with others; it's helping shape the future of college and universities.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Diretor of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
