William Carey University joins Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network to advance AI education
William Carey University has joined the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN), the first statewide AI initiative in the U.S. The focus is clear: give students and educators practical AI skills that translate to the workplace.
As a partner, WCU will embed AI training across programs and offer access to MAIN's curriculum. Working professionals can participate through the Carey Institute for Excellence, extending learning beyond traditional classrooms.
"Artificial Intelligence is already reshaping how we interact with the world. Giving our academic community access to MAIN's curriculum is a major step forward in our mission to provide an education that challenges our students," said Dr. Noal Cochran, WCU vice president of academic affairs. "We look forward to working with MAIN as we help students integrate their Christian values into an emergent technological landscape."
Dr. Kollin Napier, director of MAIN, added: "We're excited to welcome William Carey University as our first private university partner. Their involvement expands MAIN's reach across Mississippi's higher education landscape, ensuring AI education and workforce readiness are accessible to learners at both public and private institutions."
What this means for educators
- Curriculum infusion: Expect AI literacy embedded in general education and program-specific courses (e.g., nursing documentation with AI support, business analytics, teacher prep with AI lesson planning checks).
- Faculty upskilling: Training on prompt craft, data privacy, bias awareness, and classroom use cases so instructors can model responsible practice.
- Ethics and faith integration: Space to discuss human dignity, academic integrity, and mission-centered use of AI-anchored in WCU's values.
- Assessment updates: Clear policies on AI use, authentic assessments, and detection-aware assignment design.
- Career outcomes: Micro-credentials and projects that map to real job tasks-report drafting, data synthesis, content review, and workflow automation.
How WCU will roll it out
- MAIN curriculum access for students and instructors, with classroom-ready modules and applied projects.
- Professional pathways via the Carey Institute for Excellence for educators, staff, and local employers.
- Practical training focused on tool selection, responsible use, and measurable learning outcomes.
Why it matters
- Students graduate with market-ready skills: prompt fluency, AI-aided research, and project delivery.
- Faculty gain clarity: what to allow, how to cite AI use, and how to assess original thinking.
- Institutions move faster: consistent standards, shared resources, and less duplication of effort.
About MAIN
Established in 2023, the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network supports AI awareness, education, training, and innovation across the state. The network responds to AI's growing influence on workforce sectors with scalable, practical learning.
Quick resources for academic leaders
- U.S. Department of Education: AI and the Future of Teaching and Learning
- NIST AI Risk Management Framework
- Complete AI Training: course paths by job role
What to do next
- Identify 1-2 courses this term where AI can assist writing, analysis, or feedback. Pilot small, measure results, iterate.
- Publish a simple AI use policy for your classes: what's allowed, when to cite, and how to request accommodations.
- Set up a monthly faculty roundtable to share prompts, rubrics, and student outcomes tied to AI use.
WCU's partnership with MAIN sets a practical path forward: consistent training, responsible use, and clear value for students and educators.
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