- BUSINESS
NCCU launches first AI Research Institute at an HBCU
<img src="https://todaytrendnews7.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/11352418_DeJuanHoggard160x200.jpg” alt=”DeJuan Hoggard Image”>
ByDeJuan Hoggard
Monday, August 10, 2026 10:58PM
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) –North Carolina Central University marked a historic milestone Monday with the grand opening of the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research, becoming the first HBCU in the nation to launch a dedicated AI research center
The 5,000 square foot facility which is supported by a $1 million Google grant and equipment investment from Lenovo will serve as a hands-on hub for AI literacy, robotics, machine learning, extended reality and ethical technology development. University leaders say the institute positions NCCU students to lead in a rapidly evolving field
Chancellor Dr. Karrie G. Dixon said the timing is critical as artificial intelligence accelerates across industries
“When I think about AI, I think about the fact that technology continues to move faster than trust,” she said. “What we have to do is build that trust around usage of AI in a responsible and ethical way. We’re helping our students prepare for careers that work for North Carolina and beyond. AI is just going to enhance everything that we’re doing in a responsible and ethical way.”
Students and faculty toured the new building during Monday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, exploring labs designed to encourage experimentation and innovation
Emerging leader and student, David Goings, who studies information technology, said the institute opens doors for student creativity. “I hope it gives students an opportunity to express themselves in AI,” he said. “I hope it sparks an idea that hopefully can change the world for the better.”
Founding director Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, an associate professor in NCCU’s School of Library and Information Sciences, said the project has been years in the making. “This generation of students is not like our generation. They think differently. They want to be involved and feel like they’re a part of their learning,” she said. “We have two opportunities when you’re the first at something. You can either be someone who rests on your laurels or set the pathway for others to follow. And I believe that we’re doing the latter.”
Alumni also shared excitement about the institute’s impact. Pebbles Lucas, reflecting on her undergraduate years, said today’s students have tools she never imagined. “I remember the dictionary I had to look up every word. Now I could just go on my telephone, check ChatGPT and hit a word, and then they give you the synonyms and the antonyms. Everything that you could think of.”
More than 150 people attended the opening, celebrating NCCU’s leadership in emerging technology and the significance of being the first HBCU with an AI institute. Goings said the achievement fuels campus pride. “It’s amazing. We’re the first and we know we’re the best. We’re Eagles. We soar above all the rest.”
As artificial intelligence continues reshaping education nationwide, NCCU leaders say the institute ensures students are not just keeping pace; they are helping define the future
Report a correction or typo
Copyright © 2026 WTVD-TV. All Rights Reserved.
