As we begin 2026, we are proud to share the AI for Every Eagle: 2025 Year-End Impact Report, capturing a breakthrough year for the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) at North Carolina Central University.

In 2025, IAIER helped position NCCU as a national leader in responsible, interdisciplinary AI education and workforce development—reaching more than 1,400 students, faculty, and community members, securing $1.125M in corporate funding, and hosting the first-ever IAIER x OpenAI Academy Summit at an HBCU, with 444 participants from 40+ institutions.

Inside the report, you’ll see how we are building momentum into 2026 by:     

•Expanding AI literacy across disciplines and career pathways

•Advancing NCCU’s first interdisciplinary AI Minor

•Growing the AI Emerging Scholars, Leaders, and Practitioners programs

•Investing $110K in faculty-led AI research

•Preparing for the opening of a 5,000-square-foot AI Innovation Hub

As we move forward in 2026, this work continues to scale—deepening partnerships, expanding opportunity, and ensuring that AI is a foundational skill for every Eagle.

Thank you for being part of this journey as we continue to soar to new heights together.

Dr. Siobahn Day Grady

Founding Director, Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) North Carolina Central University