Advancing AI in Education: A Collaborative Vision for VCU
In his recent State of the University address, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) President Michael Rao, Ph.D., highlighted the rapid pace of technological innovation and VCU’s vital role in preparing students for a world shaped by emerging tools—particularly artificial intelligence (AI). While Rao’s speech covered many university-wide initiatives, one standout moment was the spotlight on Elaine Reeder, Ph.D., Director of Curriculum Development for LEDstudio. Reeder’s insights underscored just how integral AI education has become to VCU’s vision and how she’s helping to infuse it across every discipline.
Embracing AI Across Disciplines
During a panel discussion with President Rao and Assistant Professor of Philosophy Frank Faries, Ph.D., Reeder emphasized the pressing need to include AI training and awareness in all areas of study—not just traditional fields like computer science or engineering. Citing the realities of AI’s reach in business, health care, and beyond, Reeder pointed out:
“If you ask most people where AI should be in a university, they’ll say computer science and engineering, but that’s not the world we’re living in—AI is everywhere.”
Her vision is clear: Every student, regardless of major or level, should have opportunities to build familiarity and hands-on experience with AI. Through her leadership at LEDstudio and as Director of Curriculum Development, she’s spearheading projects designed to ensure students graduate “AI-literate” and ready for careers that increasingly demand technological fluency.
Future-Proofing Students
A core message from both President Rao and Reeder is the idea of “future-proofing” VCU’s students—preparing them for changes we can’t yet predict. While the university has launched an undergraduate AI minor and leverages AI in multiple courses, Reeder’s role involves taking these efforts further. By infusing AI into every learning experience, she hopes to give students not just a single brush with AI, but continuous exposure that reflects the reality of today’s workplaces.
Reeder’s and LEDstudio’s approach aligns with VCU’s other strategic moves:
- Every Ram’s a Researcher initiative, integrating undergraduates into research projects that often involve AI.
- Transformative learning experiences requiring internships, research, or problem-solving collaborations—platforms where AI frequently comes into play.
Elaine Reeder’s leadership at LEDstudio is helping to position VCU at the forefront of AI education, ensuring students across all disciplines gain the skills needed for an increasingly AI-driven world.
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