Office of the President
The AI Conversation:
Exploring AI in Teaching, Research, and Work
Come, Learn, and Connect!
The AI Conversation is a new webinar series launching this fall, hosted by Bao Johri, Vice President for Information Technology and CIO. In each 30-minute episode, Dr. Johri will interview faculty or staff to explore how they use AI in creative and impactful ways—whether to enhance teaching, advance research, or streamline operations. More than just a presentation, the series fosters open dialogue focused on using AI responsibly, ethically, and effectively within our campus community.
Meet Our Upcoming Guests:
Thursday, November 6 - 12:00 - 12:30 PM
Dr. Nupur Hajela, Associate Professor in Physical Therapy, integrates her background as a clinician
and neuroscientist into teaching and research. Her work considers rehabilitation,
neurological conditions, and student learning, connecting clinical practice with emerging
directions in the field.
Friday, November 7 - 9:00 - 9:30 AM
Dr. Paulina Freire is leading innovative research that integrates artificial intelligence with optical
sensing technologies to improve the assessment of dairy quality. Her work utilizes
machine learning algorithms to analyze data from backscatter light, fluorescence spectroscopy,
and multi-spectral imaging systems, assessing intrinsic characteristics of dairy products
and facilitating real-time quality control and predictions of functionality that exceed
those of conventional methods.
Future Webinars
Dr. Hovannes Kulhandjian
Dr. Hovannes Kulhandjian, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, explores how AI drives his research and student mentorship, guiding projects that integrate AI to solve real-world challenges. The conversation highlights innovations such as his patented detection system, CrossBot, and SARDOG agricultural robot, while examining how training students in AI-powered research can lead to impactful solutions and potential products that benefit society.
Recording Archives
Dr. Thanos Aris Panagopoulos, Associate Professor of Computer Science, examines how advancements in AI influence not only his teaching and research but the broader field of computer science. The conversation explores the evolving role of AI in real-world problem-solving, the ethical challenges of intelligent systems, and the future of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Professor Holly Sowles, Chair for the School of Art, Design and Art History, discusses how AI is reshaping creative education. From early research on AI in interior design to evolving classroom practices, learn how Professor Sowles navigates the ethical and artistic possibilities of AI while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
Dr. Ahran Koo, Associate Professor of Art Education, explores how AI is transforming curriculum and classroom experiences. Through the lens of contemporary AI artists and scholars, her work encourages students to critically reflect on traditional art, creativity, and visual storytelling, inspiring them to consider culture, authorship, and ethics.
Dr. Laura Huisinga, Associate Professor in the Department of Art, Design, and Art History considers the evolving impact of AI on contemporary design education and creative practice, highlighting how emerging technologies are influencing both pedagogical approaches and the design process itself.