The IAIER at NCCU x OpenAI Academy Summit: HBCUs Leading the Future

As artificial intelligence transforms every sector of society—from healthcare to education, finance to public service—the question we must confront is not just what AI can do, but who it will serve and who will shape it.

This high-impact panel explores how HBCUs—rooted in a legacy of access, justice, and innovation—are essential to ensuring that AI advances the public good. Featuring voices from local, state, and national leadership, the conversation will address:

• The economic opportunities AI presents for underrepresented communities
• Policy and public-private partnerships needed to foster equitable AI development
• The critical role of education, especially at HBCUs, in preparing students for the future of work
• How cities and regions like Durham can lead in creating inclusive innovation ecosystems

This session challenges us to rethink how we build, govern, and deploy AI in ways that reflect the values of service, empowerment, and collective advancement—values HBCUs have championed for over a century.

An introductory session to help you get started with ChatGPT. We'll cover the basics, share best practices for effective prompting, and explore practical ways you can apply ChatGPT in your work and everyday life.

A deeper dive into what's possible with ChatGPT; we'll be walking through advanced capabilities in ChatGPT, including agents, custom GPTs, and model selection.

This session explores how large language models can expand the scale, speed, and scope of social science research. Anyone interested in using AI to build any kind of application can benefit; students and faculty focused on social science research (e.g., economics, political science, sociology, etc.)

Hosted in partnership with OATS.org; Participants in this session will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance the lives of older adults, from improving daily convenience to fostering deeper social connections. They'll examine key challenges and barriers to adoption, including accessibility, trust, and digital literacy. The session will highlight AI’s potential role in reducing loneliness through companionship technologies and social engagement tools. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of AI literacy and resilience, empowering older adults to navigate and adapt to evolving technologies.

In today’s rapidly changing world of work, building a fulfilling career calls for a balance of experience, adaptability, and the strategic use of emerging technology. This panel brings together OpenAI employees from diverse backgrounds and teams to share their journeys to OpenAI and their perspectives on how the industry is evolving in the search for new talent. Attendees will gain actionable strategies, fresh insights into how AI is reshaping the job market, and inspiration to chart career paths that align with their strengths and ambitions. Key themes include: Honing Your Strengths: Discover how to identify your unique skills and passions to intentionally design a career that excites and sustains you. AI as a Career Companion: Learn how to leverage AI—from optimizing your job search and tailoring resumes to preparing for interviews and networking more effectively. Breaking Into an AI-Focused Generation: Explore what it takes to land opportunities in industries being reshaped by artificial intelligence and how to stand out as a candidate. Getting Your Foot in the Door: Practical strategies for early-career professionals and those pivoting into new fields. Career Pivots as Superpowers: Hear how intentional transitions can accelerate growth, open unexpected doors, and help future-proof your path.

This dynamic panel brings NCCU students to the forefront of the conversation on artificial intelligence. Students will share their personal experiences with AI—how they are using it in their studies, research, and everyday lives—alongside their hopes, questions, and concerns about its future. From excitement about new opportunities to thoughtful reflections on challenges and fears, this session provides an authentic look at how the next generation of leaders is engaging with AI. Attendees will gain fresh insights into the student perspective and the ways in which AI is shaping education, careers, and society.

Learn how to use AI to craft a tailored, standout resume and apply strategies that maximize interest in a competitive job market.