Mayor Pureval, Rob Richardson lead ethical AI symposium
Community leader panelists join forces at 1819 Innovation Hub
As artificial intelligence rapidly integrates into everyday life, Rob Richardson, CEO and founder of Disrupt Now and MidwestCon and local tech startup partner of the University of Cincinnati 1819 Innovation Hub, recently spearheaded the Responsible AI Symposium with Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, calling upon community leaders to discuss and ensure AI technologies help users rather than harm.
The event came on the heels of the Ohio Statehouse inaugural Artificial Intelligence Symposium earlier this June. The symposium brought together AI experts from academia, industry leaders and government agencies to discuss the increasing deployment of AI systems and the ethical priorities of leaders in government and higher education. Panelists such as RJ Sargent, executive director of learning services at UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub, agreed that equity and digital literacy in AI is critical.
As new phases of AI development continue, community leaders agreed to participate in discussions to incorporate a deeper understanding of ethical decision-making in AI.
Mayor Pureval highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “Engaging in Ohio, the conversation has already begun. By bringing together a diverse assembly of experts and leaders, we aim to explore how Cincinnati can safely and proactively integrate AI to enhance workforce training, drive pivotal research and establish vital university-industry partnerships. This forum marks the initial step in developing a strategic road map to advance AI technology, ensuring its responsible and equitable use.”
There have been several AI incidents reported that have gone horribly wrong, such as the collision of a driverless Cruise Robot Taxi in San Francisco that dragged a pedestrian 20 feet and a New York Times report on a pregnant woman being arrested due to false AI facial recognition.
Richardson emphasized the critical need for responsible AI development and transparency,
“AI and data are the new electricity — powering everything from health care to education, from business to daily life.”
He also shared how AI's rise will exacerbate existing inequalities without immediate and decisive intervention, pushing the most vulnerable communities further behind.
Incorporating best practices from this symposium, the coalition plans to launch its responsible AI initiative during the third annual MidwestCon2024 data hackathon conference, Sept. 4-6.
According to Richardson, the event draws hundreds of tech and AI enthusiasts, from beginners to builders, making the event “an ideal opportunity to bring awareness about responsible AI that does not harm but instead heals young people. AI-generated deep fakes have led to a surge in sextortion cases, victimizing minors and resulting in tragic consequences, including teen suicides. We can lead the charge locally and nationally by bringing together community stakeholders and policymakers.”
Speaker panelists included:
- Mayor Aftab Pureval
- Rob Richardson, founder, Disrupt Now
- Pete Blackshaw, co-founder and CEO, BrandRank AI
- Helen Todd, CincyAI
- Bleuzette Marshall, vice president, UC Office of Equity and Inclusion
- Kelly Cohen, PhD, UC College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, responsible AI expert
- Catherine Bushong, co-president, Cincinnati Women in Technology (GetWITit)
- Tracy Ruberg, executive director, The Circuit
Featured image at top:: Rob Richardson, Mayor Aftab Pureval and panelists. Photo/Mary Dwyer
Innovation Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Three friends, alumni work to create opportunities for others
April 15, 2021
Good friends have your back. Great friends challenge you to strive for more. Ashlee Carlisle, BBA ’09, Anndréa Moore, BBA ’10, and Andrew Oyedeji, BBA ’12, are three great friends anyone should wish for in life.
UC Blue Ash event focuses on transgender inclusivity in health care
March 31, 2021
As health care providers take steps to provide an inclusive environment for all patients, it’s important to consider the needs of transgender and nonbinary people.
Engineer finds success in higher education administration
May 12, 2021
Jennifer Little Edmonds, PhD talks about how her background as an engineer shaped her career path to higher education administration.
Students establish Association for Women of Color in Engineering
May 12, 2021
Three University of Cincinnati student found a new student organization to support women of color in engineering.
Cultivating connections
Finding your place in the community is a huge part of being successful in college. That's why the University of Cincinnati offers a multitude of centers, programs and services that provide support and a sense of community to historically underserved populations.
Duke Energy supports UC Clermont sensory, meditation rooms
June 30, 2021
The University of Cincinnati Clermont College recently received $10,000 from Duke Energy to enhance Accessibility Resources available to students.
President Pinto's Statement on Asian American Hatred and Violence
March 17, 2021
President Pinto's statement condemns rising hatred and violence against Asian Americans.
President Pinto's Statement on United Asian Advocates
April 8, 2021
President Pinto condemns bigotry and commends the United Asian Advocates student group for their efforts to eliminate racism toward Asians and Asian Americans.
Why is diversity important in engineering?
Diversity of thought, cultures, and backgrounds is important in engineering fields. Problem solving is easier when more are involved. Learn more from Dr. Whitney Gaskins, Assistant Dean of Inclusive Excellence and Community Engagement.
Spectrum TV: Camp for women of color inspires future engineers
July 28, 2021
UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science hosts a summer camp to encourage women of color to pursue engineering and science careers.