CMU taps new leader for AI initiatives

Jim Bujaki, vice president of the Office of Information Technology at Central Michigan University, has announced that Ben Andera will serve as the university’s first Special Advisor for Artificial Intelligence.

“The purpose of establishing this role was to provide the bandwidth for a senior leader to focus on strategic exploration, governance and university-wide integration of artificial intelligence,” Bujaki said. “Placing this emphasis on this important technology will position CMU as a forward-thinking institution that leverages technology effectively to enhance teaching, learning, research and operational effectiveness.”

The new role is a supplemental assignment for Andera, who currently serves as executive director of academic and research computing. While the title is new, Andera ‘s work on AI-related initiatives has been ongoing for several years.

“I have been fortunate to be involved in several projects over the years. One of my recent favorites has been our work on a university-wide Go Grants initiative, called Embracing AI at CMU, which is wrapping up now and will provide recommendations to university leadership in early February,” Andera said. “This project has gathered lots of data across campus as well as gathering best practices from our peers and industry leaders.”

With his new role, which began earlier this month, Andera will guide a coordinated approach to AI adoption and ensure that new AI tools are implemented ethically, securely and effectively. He will work collaboratively with academic, administrative and staff partners to develop an AI-focused strategic roadmap aligned with CMU’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan and plans within OIT. Andera will also serve as an advisor on AI strategies throughout the university, and help to plan, coordinate and launch new AI-related projects. 

“I am especially excited about the ability to collaborate with brilliant minds across various departments and disciplines. I hope to foster a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, where we can explore new frontiers in AI and push the boundaries of what is possible. Some of the immediate projects I will be taking on include advancing our AI research capabilities, expanding our partnerships with industry leaders, and promoting ethical AI practices within the university,” Andera said. “I am also looking forward to mentoring and guiding students and researchers, helping them navigate the complexities of AI and achieve their full potential." 

A key aspect of his new role will be the development of an AI governance framework, which will address operational elements including the ethical use of technology, academic integrity, data protection and privacy, and more.

“I am eager to leverage this position to drive forward our AI initiatives in innovative and transformative ways,” Andera said.