UMW Launches Center for AI and the Liberal Arts to Prepare Students for an AI-Driven Future

UMW Launches Center for AI and the Liberal Arts to Advance AI Research and Education

The University of Mary Washington (UMW) is set to open the Center for AI and the Liberal Arts in fall 2025, uniting faculty and students from diverse disciplines to examine artificial intelligence (AI) from a liberal arts perspective. This initiative highlights the university's commitment to integrating AI into education, research, and public engagement.

Located at the Hurley Convergence Center, the new Center will host courses such as AI and Society, which focus on AI’s practical applications and societal implications. The Center will serve as a collaborative hub for multiple fields, including communication, computer science, humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

Interdisciplinary Approach to AI Education

Led by Professor Anand Rao from the Communication and Digital Studies department, the Center emphasizes teaching students not just how AI functions but also why it matters. The curriculum will address ethical considerations, societal impact, and the responsible use of AI technologies.

“Our goal is to prepare students for an AI-driven future by equipping them with critical thinking skills and practical knowledge relevant beyond the classroom,” said Rao. “They will engage in shaping AI discourse, considering its effects on workforce, education, and daily life.”

Key Initiatives and Programs

• Courses and Curriculum Development: Offering interdisciplinary classes that explore AI through ethics, communication, digital studies, and humanities.
• Student Projects and Research: Hands-on opportunities such as chatbot development, augmented debate, and AI explainability.
• Faculty Collaboration and Grants: Support for research and grant proposals examining AI's societal and cultural impacts.
• Public Events and Outreach: Workshops, guest lectures, and community partnerships to engage a wider audience.

The Center’s educational model encourages students to analyze AI’s limitations and ethical challenges. This approach cultivates critical thinkers, policymakers, artists, and leaders capable of navigating AI’s influence across multiple sectors.

Courses to Build Practical AI Skills

This summer, UMW introduced a complimentary one-credit online course titled Introduction to AI. It provides a foundation in AI concepts, ethical application, and integration into academic work. The self-paced course is available to incoming and current students.

In the fall, students can enroll in DGST 301N: AI and Society, an in-depth course hosted in the Hurley Convergence Center Digital Auditorium. It combines in-person and online learning and offers hands-on projects such as chatbot creation, debates, and guest lectures from AI experts.

Through these courses, students gain practical skills that prepare them to bridge technical AI development with broader business and social concerns throughout their careers.

Leadership and Recognition

Professor Anand Rao, a recognized expert in AI education, leads the Center. His work on AI pluralism and debate-centered instruction has been featured internationally and in academic publications. Rao co-authored the 2023 book Chat(GPT): Navigating the Impact of Generative AI Technologies on Educational Theory and Practice, which topped charts in curricula and professional development categories.

Rao also actively contributes to community discussions and regional events, including panels hosted by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. His efforts extend to strategic planning with the UMW Foundation Board.

Community Support and Funding

The Center received a $100,000 seed gift over five years from Foundation Board members Donna Gladis ’68 and her husband Steve. They emphasize the importance of preparing liberal arts students with AI skills alongside critical thinking and creativity.

“We want students to graduate ready to compete and lead in a technology-driven workplace,” said the Gladises. Their support aims to foster innovation and curiosity through the Center’s programs.

Learn More and Get Involved

To explore upcoming events and programs, visit the Complete AI Training website. Support for initiatives like UMW’s Center for AI and the Liberal Arts can be found through the Giving to Mary Washington platform.