Higher education has certainly felt its impact, and the University of Charleston is embracing opportunities to harness AI to benefit its students and community.
Starting in fall 2025, UC will launch a new major in artificial intelligence, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary to thrive in one of today’s fastest growing and transformative fields.
“As a university, we proudly embrace new technology and innovation, supporting our students and community in using both to enrich their lives and occupations,” said UC president Marty Roth. “This is an exciting step forward for UC as we prepare the next generation of leaders to thrive in an AI-driven world. Our new major and ongoing community programs will equip students to lead in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence and help our community gain the knowledge and insight to navigate this ever-changing landscape of opportunity.”
“Our new major is designed to prepare students not only to use AI, but to understand and shape its future,” Dr. Vincent Smith, program director of computer science and data analytics, said. “We emphasize ethical development, real-world applications, and interdisciplinary collaboration — ensuring our graduates are not just tech-savvy, but thoughtful, well-rounded problem-solvers ready to innovate across industries.”
UC is also extending this momentum beyond the classroom. Through its Inspiring Innovation series at the UC Downtown Innovation Hub, the university is inviting the community to explore the practical impacts of AI on business and society. On May 14, UC hosted a session called “Integrating AI with your Business.”
On Tuesday, June 10, another business/AI session will be offered. “Legal Issues with AI” will feature Scott Applegate, JD staff judge advocate for the West Virginia National Guard, and Jody Ogle, supervisory cybersecurity advisor for CISA. This session, sponsored by Huntington Bank, will also be at the UC Downtown Innovation Hub. A catered networking event will follow.
Both sessions are free, open to the public, and will provide essential perspectives on using AI. Registration is requested for both events, which you can do by going online to www.ucwv.edu/event/inspiring-innovation-series-june.
For questions or more information, please contact C.J. Harvey, UC vice president for marketing and communications, at rogerharvey@ucwv.edu, or by calling 304-352-0014.
© 2025 The Charleston Gazette (Charleston, W.Va.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
