Rowan University has taken a bold step into the future by appointing Dr. Nidhal C. Bouaynaya as the Associate Vice President for Artificial Intelligence. This move is not just a title change but a strategic decision to weave AI into the very fabric of the university's operations and curriculum.
Dr. Bouaynaya, who has been a part of Rowan since 2013, is no stranger to the world of AI. As the director of Rowan’s New Machine & Artificial Intelligence VR Center (MAVRC), she has been at the forefront of AI research, focusing on big data analytics, machine learning, and mathematical optimization. Her vision is clear: to integrate AI not only in STEM but across all disciplines, including healthcare, social sciences, and humanities.
"We’re going to integrate artificial intelligence not only in research and development and in STEM education, but really all across the curriculum," Bouaynaya explains. This holistic approach aims to prepare students for a future where AI is ubiquitous, ensuring they see AI as a partner rather than a mere tool.
The appointment comes at a time when AI is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging almost daily. Bouaynaya acknowledges the challenges but is optimistic about the potential benefits. "It’s going to disrupt the way we do many things, but if we follow it and start integrating it right into education, then its impact will be more transformative and positive," she says.
Rowan's leadership, including Provost Anthony Lowman and President Dr. Ali A. Houshmand, believe that Bouaynaya is the right person to lead this initiative. Her research, funded by the National Science Foundation among others, positions her as a leader in AI education and research.
For students and faculty alike, this appointment signals a new era at Rowan University. The integration of AI across various fields is not just about keeping up with technological advancements but about leading the charge in AI education and research. As Bouaynaya puts it, "Every day, there is something new. There is a new release, a new technology, there is a better way of training these models. I’m excited to see where this technology will lead us."
In conclusion, Rowan University’s decision to appoint Dr. Bouaynaya as Associate Vice President for AI is a forward-thinking move that promises to transform the educational landscape. By embracing AI, Rowan is not only preparing its students for the future but also positioning itself as a leader in AI innovation and education.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Nidhal C. Bouaynaya appointed as Associate Vice President for AI at Rowan University.
- AI integration across all disciplines, not just STEM.
- Focus on AI as a partner in education and operations.
- Leadership in AI research and education.
- Rowan University aims to be a leader in AI innovation.