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Catholic University of America Taps Microsoft AI Leader for Ethical Tech Institute

Update CUA's New Institute: A Groundbreaking Venture in AI The Catholic University of America (CUA) recently made headlines by appointing Taylor Black, the director of artificial intelligence (AI) at Microsoft, to lead a newly established institute focused on emerging technologies. This significant step marks an institution-wide commitment to exploring the ethical dimensions of AI and its impact on society. Why Choose Taylor Black? Black brings a wealth of experience to this role. His career began with a successful web development business during his time at Gonzaga University, eventually leading him to high-level positions in consulting and venture development before joining Microsoft in 2021. His diverse academic background in philosophy and law complements his technical expertise, making him a fitting choice to tackle the complex questions surrounding AI's implications on human dignity. According to H. Joseph Yost, senior vice provost of research at CUA, Black's unique combination of skills and experiences positions him perfectly to guide the institute as it seeks to address critical societal issues. Fostering Dialogue Around Human Dignity One of the primary goals of the new institute is to engage in meaningful dialogue about the existential questions posed by AI. Black has observed that his peers in the tech industry are increasingly grappling with questions of human dignity and ethical responsibility. He emphasized that the Catholic Church has long advocated for discussions around humanity, stating, "The Church has been trying to get people to ask the question ‘What does it mean to be human?’ for a very long time. Now a bunch of people are asking it unprompted." This open dialogue can help bridge the gap between technological advancement and the moral frameworks within which they operate. Reimagining Educational Focus Black's vision for the institute extends beyond simply addressing ethical concerns. He believes universities should fundamentally focus on human formation. The concept of ‘human formation’ refers to developing not just technical skills but also nurturing the moral and philosophical understanding that guides a well-rounded individual. Black stated, "If you're well-formed, you generally do a better job in the workplace." This insight resonates with CUA’s mission to create well-rounded graduates who can navigate complex ethical landscapes in their future careers. Future Insights Into AI Technology As CUA embarks on this journey, the institute will explore emerging trends in AI technology, delving into its potential benefits and pitfalls. This pursuit aligns with broader societal concerns about technology's rapid growth and its capacity to challenge traditional values. With AI continuously evolving, the need for ethical guidelines and frameworks becomes increasingly urgent. The institute aims to position itself as a leader in this discourse. A Call for Community Involvement To maximize the impact of this new venture, community involvement will be crucial. The institute aims to bring together scholars, tech professionals, and the wider community to create a robust platform for discussion and innovation. By uniting diverse perspectives, CUA can generate well-rounded solutions that reflect both technological advancements and ethical considerations. Conclusion In appointing Taylor Black to lead the new institute on emerging technologies, CUA not only embraces innovation but also reinforces its commitment to moral leadership in tech. As society faces the challenges posed by AI, the university's initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping ethical guidelines that prioritize human dignity. The dialogue prompted by this endeavor is vital. It encourages not just academic scholarship but also broader community engagement, ensuring that as technology advances, it does so with humanity in focus.