TESU and New Jersey State Library Launch Artificial Intelligence Task Force to Drive Strategic Innovation

September 10, 2024
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Creation of the task force aligns with the state's broader efforts to engage workers in shaping AI policies.

Thomas Edison State University (TESU), in collaboration with the New Jersey State Library (NJSL), announces the formation of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force. This initiative aims to guide the integration of AI technologies across the university and library, ensuring these innovations align with the strategic goals and ethical standards of both institutions.

The AI Task Force has been established to support leadership across TESU and NJSL in integrating AI into various organizational operations and enhancing the educational experiences of students. The task force will focus on key areas such as AI-driven tools for business processes, data analytics, student services and institutional initiatives. By doing so, the task force plans to ensure that these efforts are consistent with TESU's and NJSL’s strategic initiatives and ethical principles.

TESU President Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., expressed her support for the initiative.

“At TESU, we are committed to preparing our students and staff for the future, and the formation of this AI Task Force is a critical step in that direction. By aligning our efforts with the state’s broader AI initiatives, and partnering with our affiliate, The New Jersey State Library, we ensure that our community is not only equipped to adapt to the changes brought by AI, but also to lead in this new era of technological innovation. This task force will play a vital role in integrating AI into our educational and operational strategies, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of higher education,” Hancock said.

The task force will operate under the direction of the Provost and the Chief Technology Officer, who, together, will oversee the alignment of AI strategies with institutional priorities. Stuart A. Eisenstadt, assistant dean of the School of Sciences & Technology, will serve as chair and Christina Wilson, director of Learning Technology & Solutions, and Edith Beckett, Ph.D., MLIS, supervisor, tech services at NJSL, will be co-chairs.

The launch of TESU’s AI Task Force comes at a pivotal moment for the state of New Jersey. In a national first, New Jersey has initiated a comprehensive effort to consult workers across the state about the impact of generative artificial intelligence on the workplace. Recognizing the potential of AI, the State of New Jersey is seeking direct input from workers about the hopes, concerns and challenges they foresee with this rapidly evolving technology. The insights gathered from a statewide survey will inform the Governor’s Office on how to harness AI responsibly and ethically.

The TESU/NJSL AI Task Force’s work will complement the state’s broader AI initiatives by focusing on the academic and operational integration of AI within higher education and public library systems. As the state gathers insights from its workforce, TESU’s task force will ensure that the university remains at the forefront of preparing students and staff for the future of work, aligning educational experiences with the evolving demands of the labor market.

“AI is changing how people produce and consume information; ensuring that the implications of using AI are well understood is paramount for libraries serving students and the public,” said New Jersey State Librarian Jen Nelson.

The TESU/NJSL AI Task Force will engage in a range of activities, including:

  • Student Learning: Recommending AI tools and processes to effectively incorporate AI into student learning experiences.
  • Strategic Guidance: Advising on the development of a comprehensive AI strategy that includes measurable objectives, identifying impactful AI applications and ensuring alignment with TESU’s and NJSL’s missions.
  • Ethical Implementation: Providing guidance on maintaining ethical standards and compliance with laws like GDPR and FERPA, particularly in data privacy, algorithmic fairness and transparency.
  • Technology Assessment: Evaluating and recommending AI technologies that best meet the needs of TESU and NJSL, ensuring compatibility and integration feasibility.
  • Data Governance: Offering expertise in managing the security, integrity and privacy of institutional data used in AI applications.
  • Training and Resources: Facilitating AI literacy and competency through continuous learning, resource development and professional development programs tailored to TESU/NJSL staff and students.

The task force will also collaborate with external AI experts and vendors to support its recommendations. This collaboration will enhance the university’s operational efficiency and data-driven decision making while ensuring that AI is appropriately integrated into the student experience.

Photo: The Thomas Edison State University and New Jersey State Library Artificial Intelligence Task Force will be led by (left to right) Christina Wilson, co-chair, Stuart A. Eisenstadt, chair, and Edith Beckett, co-chair.