East Bay libraries to host virtual panel on AI future - Fall River Herald News

East Bay libraries to host virtual panel on AI future

Five public libraries in the East Bay will host a virtual panel discussion titled “Can We Talk About AI?” at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 5.

The free event is open to the public and registration is required, according to a community announcement. Participants may attend online from home or join watch parties at Barrington Public Library, Brownell Library in Little Compton, George Hail Free Library in Warren, Rogers Free Library in Bristol or Tiverton Public Library.

The program, titled “Can We Talk About AI?,” will bring together experts from higher education, religion and technology policy to discuss opportunities, challenges and ethical questions surrounding the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

Organizers say the discussion is intended for people who want to learn more about how AI works, how it may affect jobs and communities and what questions its growth raises for the future. Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions during the event. Those interested can register at forms.cloud.microsoft.

Panelists include Timothy M. Henry, an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at Rhode Island College. Henry helped develop academic programs in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity and created Rhode Island’s first undergraduate major in artificial intelligence along with two AI-related minors.

Also participating is W. Nicholas Knisely, bishop of the Diocese of Rhode Island. Knisely was appointed the Episcopal Church’s lead science bishop following the 2022 Lambeth Conference and serves as a liaison to the Anglican Communion Science Commission. Knisely is also a member of the Society of Ordained Scientists.

Enock Mudzamiri, a project manager with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Massachusetts AI Hub, will discuss work involving AI education, workforce development, applied innovation and community engagement. According to the announcement, Mudzamiri’s work focuses on helping ensure advances in AI remain practical, inclusive and connected to long-term workforce and economic goals.

Joan Peckham, professor emerita of computer science at the University of Rhode Island, also will serve on the panel.

The program is sponsored by Barrington Public Library, Brownell Library in Little Compton, George Hail Free Library in Warren, Rogers Free Library in Bristol and Tiverton Public Library.

Organizers encourage residents interested in technology, education, ethics, public policy or the future impact of artificial intelligence to participate in the conversation.

This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.