Artificial intelligence institute opens at N.C. Central University

North Carolina Central University opened its Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research on August 10, 2026, the first AI institute at a Historically Black College and University. The $7 million facility, funded by federal grants, university resources, and a $1 million Google investment, includes an AI literacy studio, robotics lab, and extended reality experimentation space. Over 2,500 people have already participated in the institute's programs, which require first-year students to take introductory AI coursework and offer a new AI minor launching in fall.

Chancellor Karrie Dixon emphasized the university's responsibility to educate students on responsible and ethical AI use, noting that technology should not replace human judgment or critical thinking. Founding director Siobahn Day Grady highlighted that AI tools are now accessible beyond computer scientists and stressed the importance of understanding how AI systems are developed, including their biases and potential harms. The opening was attended by Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, Durham Mayor Leo Williams, and other local officials.