AI@AU hosts two public lectures on AI, ethics, and creative expression
Auburn University's AI@AU initiative is hosting two public lectures built for creatives who are learning to work with AI without losing their voice. Sessions run at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, and Friday, Nov. 7. Attend in person at the Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning, Academic Classroom and Laboratory Complex Suite 259A, or join via Zoom.
- Dates: Friday, Oct. 31 and Friday, Nov. 7
- Time: 10 a.m.
- In-person: Biggio Center, ACLC Suite 259A
- Virtual: Join on Zoom
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, designers, writers, art directors, producers, educators
"AI@AU is thrilled to continue hosting distinguished speakers who bring diverse perspectives on artificial intelligence," said Gerry Dozier, director of the Auburn University Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Engineering and the Charles D. McCrary Eminent Chair Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering. "These forums provide our community with invaluable opportunities to explore not just the technical capabilities of AI, but also its ethical implications and creative potential. We encourage everyone to participate in these important conversations shaping the future of this transformative technology."
Oct. 31 - Matthew Salzano: "Wrong Problems, Wrong Solutions: Three Critical Concepts for Approaching AI"
Salzano argues many teams fixate on model glitches while ignoring deeper institutional issues. Expect a clear framework to audit how AI affects identity, advocacy, and classroom or studio practice.
- Spot the difference between technical errors and organizational gaps.
- Assess how generative tools influence voice, representation, and credibility.
- Build risk-aware workflows that respect audience trust.
Salzano is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication at Stony Brook University and an IDEA Fellow in Ethical AI with the School of Communication and Journalism and the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science. His recent work includes a 2025 publication on AI in public relations and a 2024 student co-authored report, "AI and Advocacy: Maximizing Potential, Minimizing Risk."
Nov. 7 - Al Smith: "What's Art"
Smith explores how AI is changing creativity, performance, and authorship-featuring AI actress Tilly Norwood. He shares practical lessons from building Purpix Media and producing AI Film Lab, which helps students and educators create AI-driven stories.
- Blend AI performers with human talent while keeping a strong creative point of view.
- Clarify authorship, attribution, and credits in AI-assisted productions.
- Prototype story concepts faster without sacrificing quality standards.
Before founding Purpix Media, Smith led brand marketing work with companies including McDonald's and Coca-Cola. AI Film Lab is now the company's flagship program for hands-on, AI-enabled storytelling.
How to attend
- Add both dates to your calendar and decide in-person or Zoom attendance.
- Share the Zoom link with your team: https://auburn.zoom.us/j/81706339239
- Bring questions on ethics, workflow, and crediting practices.
Each presentation will be recorded and made available for on-demand viewing via the AI@AU forum after the sessions.
Helpful resources
- U.S. Copyright Office: AI policy and guidance - Essential context for creatives working with AI-generated content.
- Practical tools for generative video - Explore options to prototype concepts and iterate faster.
Your membership also unlocks:
