UNO’s Bold Approach to Bringing AI into Classrooms, Workplaces and Communities
by ELIZABETH HEMPHILL
Curiosity ignites innovation — and few technologies have fueled more questions, wonder and debate than artificial intelligence.
But instead of fearing those questions and shying away from the answers, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) has chosen to embrace curiosity and lead bravely into the tech-driven future for the betterment of its students, staff, faculty and the Omaha community at large.
Making AI Approachable
As AI rapidly evolves, keeping up with this emerging technology can feel overwhelming. Therefore, ensuring AI can be for everyone was the inspiration of the first-of-its-kind OMA x AI conference last month. Drawing massive community support from those like Omaha Mayor John Ewing Jr. and UNO’s Chancellor Joanne Li, among many other Omaha area leaders, this hallmark event marked a new era for the city. An era that welcomes technology, curiosity and innovation for all.
“I want our community to see UNO as an institution and a brand that gets things done. We listen, we move fast and we don’t wait for change to happen. We lead it,” said Chancellor Li.
Unlike traditional tech summits, OMA x AI was designed to make AI accessible to all, removing barriers between experts and everyday users.
“When it comes to technology and workforce readiness, we’re not experimenting behind closed doors. We’re out in the community and solving problems in real time. I want people to look at UNO and see a university that’s practical, people-focused, and always pushing forward. That’s our promise to Omaha,” said Li.
OMA x AI promoted curiosity and encouraged action. Participants from every background, industry and prior tech experience were encouraged and equipped to:
- Understand AI with a common language and real examples that were practical and approachable.
- Apply AI using the tools, testing the strategies and leaving with actionable ideas and tactics tailored to their skill levels.
- Accelerate AI with breakout tracks and networking opportunities.
- Experience AI by getting their hands on the latest AI tech and connecting with AI innovators at interactive exhibits throughout the event space.
UNO Models Meaningful AI Implementation
At UNO, AI has been strategically integrated across campus, avoiding reactive approaches and helping the campus feel prepared.
UNO was among the first universities in the nation to partner with OpenAI, giving faculty and staff access to the customizable enterprise version of ChatGPT. Second, offering support services from the AI Learning Lab within the Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives.
“In the AI Learning Lab, we want to meet people where they are. We also offered a tiered approach to our AI grants for those who just want to dip their toes into AI, and for those who want to fully implement it into their courses,” said AI Learning Lab Program Manager Cassie Mallette.
Finally, UNO offers Nebraska’s first undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence aimed at providing students with the tools, knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
AI Is For Everyone
UNO is proving that AI isn’t just for tech experts — it’s for everyone.
“We’re building spaces where people can explore new technology, ask hard questions and leave more prepared for tomorrow’s workforce than when they walked in. That’s the kind of leadership a metropolitan university owes its community,” said Chancellor Li.
And UNO is delivering on that community promise. JDH’s Vice President of HR and Marketing Ryan Rogers details working with the AI Learning Lab team for training.
“Some members of our team were intimidated by AI and not sure where to start; UNO’s team was able to demystify the subject of AI for our team by showing practical ways it could be implemented into their daily lives as well as AI’s limitations and pitfalls,” said Rogers. “They had the unique skill of making the complicated seem simple.”
This type of thinking, this curiosity, will continue to secure UNO’s spot as a beacon of innovation not only in Omaha, but across our nation. Higher education and the workforce mirror one another: they’re made up of the same people, just at different stages. That’s why UNO will remain laser focused on innovating — not for innovation’s sake — but to create a better life for every worker and a better world for everyone.
