Gemini Gems – One of the More Practical AI Features in VCU’s Licensed Gemini Environment
Gemini Gems are customized versions of Gemini that can be tailored for a specific role, task, or workflow. Gems are useful because they move AI beyond one-off experimentation and into repeatable practice. In VCU’s licensed Gemini environment, which is a data Category 2 tool, Gems offer a practical way to save time, improve consistency, and […]
VCU Technology Services and Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Launch AI Survey
VCU’s Technology Services and Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence are conducting a survey to better understand sentiments and skills surrounding the use of Generative AI tools. This survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and is open to all VCU faculty, staff and students that are 18 years of age or older. The results […]
Anthropic’s Claude Cowork
Anthropic recently released Claude Cowork, an agent platform designed to move beyond traditional chatbots into workplace automation, functioning more like an autonomous coworker that can plan, execute, and complete multi-step tasks. Cowork allows users to leverage AI more as a proactive collaborator rather than a passive assistant. Users designate a local folder or workspace that […]
OpenAI and Anthropic Move into Healthcare and Life Sciences
OpenAI and Anthropic are officially entering the healthcare and life sciences sectors. While distinct in scope and audience, both initiatives reflect a broader industry trend toward domain-specific AI systems designed with heightened attention to privacy, compliance, and real-world workflows. OpenAI Introduces ChatGPT Health On January 7, OpenAI announced ChatGPT Health, a dedicated experience within ChatGPT […]
VCU Tech Services Provides 60-Day Gemini Pro for Education Pilot
During the Fall 2025 semester, 50 members of the VCU community—including faculty, staff, researchers, and students—embarked on a 60-day pilot program to test the capabilities of Gemini Pro for Education. This initiative examined how Gemini Pro could be integrated into the university’s daily academic and administrative workflows within its Google Workspace environment. The pilot participants […]
The AI Incident Database
The AI Incident Database is an open source repository of real-world incidents where AI systems caused—or nearly caused—harm. A project of the Responsible AI Collaborative, the database is a useful resource cataloging more than 1200 incidents, including deepfake investment and phishing scams, data leaks, and autopilot car collisions. A number of features built into the […]
VCU Approves New AI Policy: “Acceptable Use of Generative AI Technology”
VCU’s new AI policy “Acceptable Use of Generative AI Technology” was officially approved on November 12 and outlines the general requirements for the adoption and use of GenAI tools by VCU employees and affiliates. The policy aims to ensure that VCU uses GenAI tools ethically, securely, and in alignment with the institution’s mission to promote […]
SCHEV Releases Guide to AI in Higher Education
The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) published a new guide for higher education institutions to consider as they integrate Artificial Intelligence into their operations and curriculum. “Reference Guide for AI Integration in Education in the Commonwealth of Virginia,” written by George Mason University’s Dr. Amarda Shehu and Dr. Padhu Seshaiyer, provides a […]
10-Day Comment Period for Technology Services’ Gen AI Policy
Between September 5 and 18, VCU Technology Services’ policy “Acceptable Use of Generative AI Technology” will be available for commentary and feedback as part of the Integrity and Compliance Office’s policy development process. “Acceptable Use of Generative AI Technology” aims to make VCU a safe and productive environment for VCU employees to adopt and utilize […]