Media + AI
About
An effort that reimagines the relationship between artificial intelligence and mass communication. Focused on advancing advertising, journalism, media production, and public relations, this initiative empowers students, educators, and professionals to shape the future of communication.
Through cutting-edge tools, collaborative approaches, and a commitment to ethical practices, it bridges technology and creativity in unprecedented ways.
Our Mission
To empower a new generation of communicators with the skills and knowledge to use AI as a transformative tool. By blending technological advancements with storytelling and audience connection, we aim to ensure that media professionals lead with broader creativity and a strategic purpose. At its core, the initiative is about preparing students while supporting educators and industry professionals to thrive in a media environment shaped by AI.
The Importance of Media & AI
Artificial intelligence is not just a tool—it’s a force reshaping how we communicate, strategize, and engage. In fields like advertising, journalism, pr and media production, AI is already driving innovations in content creation, audience insights, and automation. However, what makes AI unique in mass communication is the need for human connection, requiring a balance between efficiency and the artistry of meaningful messaging. This initiative ensures that as the media landscape evolves, communicators can adapt with integrity, creativity, and a forward-looking mindset.
What we do:
Empowering Students:
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Through immersive projects, real-world applications, and access to leading technology, students gain the skills they need to excel in a changing industry. Hands-on experiences foster innovation and prepare them to become leaders in AI-driven media fields.
Supporting Educators:
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With training, curriculum resources, and professional development opportunities, educators are equipped to bring AI into their classrooms in ways that inspire and inform. This initiative helps teachers remain at the forefront of educational innovation.
Driving Industry Collaboration:
Partnerships with industry professionals provide a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and innovation. From guest speakers to collaborative projects, the initiative connects the academic and professional worlds to advance the role of AI in media.
Funding Tranparency
The Media & AI Initiative is supported by seed funding from the Richard T. Robertson School of Communication, designed to establish the initiative’s foundational infrastructure. This budget is strategically spread over five years to ensure sustainable growth and impact.​​​ This seed money ensures the resources and support needed to launch and sustain the initiative, positioning it as a long-term driver of innovation and collaboration in media and AI.
Funding Oversight
All funding decisions for the Media & AI Initiative are currently approved by the Fellowship in collaboration with the Director of the Richard T. Robertson School of Communication. This ensures that resources are allocated strategically and align with the initiative's mission to foster innovation and collaboration at the intersection of media and AI.
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Future Grants and Donations
The Media & AI Initiative is committed to becoming a growing nexus of collaboration, connecting organizations, academic entities, and industry leaders to drive innovation in mass communication. While initial seed funding has provided a foundation, the initiative continually seeks additional capital to expand its impact and opportunities.
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If your department or organization are interested in supporting this transformative work, we invite you to explore funding opportunities and join us in shaping the future of media and AI. For inquiries, please contact Professor Joshua Smith to discuss how your contribution can make a meaningful difference.
The funding is allocated across four key areas:
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Student Initiatives: Supporting hands-on projects, student stipends, guest speakers, and access to AI tools to foster innovation and leadership development.
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Educator Resources: Providing professional development, curriculum materials, and event support to empower educators in integrating AI into teaching.
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Industry Engagement: Facilitating guest speakers, networking opportunities, and collaboration platforms to strengthen ties between academia and industry.
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Core Infrastructure: Covering technology, software, and promotional services to establish the initiative’s operational foundation.​
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Collaboration
The strength of the initiative lies in its ability to bring people together. By fostering dialogue between academia, students, and industry, it creates a collaborative space where ideas flourish. This shared commitment to exploration and problem-solving ensures that every participant has a voice in shaping the future of media and AI.