Siobahn Day Grady's Vision for AI's Future at NCCU

Published Date : 3/10/2025 

Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in computer science from N.C. A&T, is leading the charge at NCCU to create an AI hub that empowers students and drives innovation. 

As the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in computer science from N.C. Agricultural and Technical State University, Dr. Siobahn Day Grady has already made history. Now, as the director of N.C. Central University’s (NCCU) Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER), she is focused on leaving a larger footprint in the world of artificial intelligence.

Her vision includes developing an AI hub at NCCU, a space where students, faculty, and community partners can collaborate on projects and explore the ethical use of the technology. “I want this to be institutionalized, meaning it becomes a part and a staple of NCCU,” Grady said. “That is my vision. That is my work for us to continue doing everything that we’re doing.”

Grady emphasizes that the future of AI isn’t just about algorithms and data. For her, it’s about people. At NCCU, that means ensuring students have the resources, mentorship, and hands-on experiences they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. “I encourage students to question the systems of technology and AI that they use right now. Remain curious about all things and have a mindset of being a lifelong learner,” Grady said.

To prevent NCCU students from getting left behind in this technological wave, Grady is creating an AI-focused book club, a new AI minor with different concentrations, and hands-on workshops with access to companies like IBM, Amazon, and OpenAI. “There might be an internship opportunity for them there. We’re in a time now where it doesn’t have to be the IT major that gets the job,” she said.

Grady hopes students will feel empowered to be leaders in the field of AI through the experience of the IAIER programs. The AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Program selects 10 students each year to receive hands-on training, mentorship, a stipend, and a certificate of completion.

David Goins, a senior information technology student and a member of the program, said he has received two job offers through connections he made while participating in the cohort. In the program, Goins worked with teachers designing curricula for students K-12, which he is passionate about. “Gaining insight about how children think will help me build fulfill my goal of building a digital library to make AI more accessible to children,” Goins said.

“AI is transforming every industry that you can think of,” Grady said. “So it is truly a time to not only see yourself in AI, but it’s a time to figure out how you can use this tool to help you stand out amongst the crowd.” 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is Dr. Siobahn Day Grady's role at NCCU?

A: Dr. Siobahn Day Grady is the director of the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) at N.C. Central University (NCCU).

Q: What is the vision for the AI hub at NCCU?

A: The vision for the AI hub at NCCU is to create a space where students, faculty, and community partners can collaborate on AI projects and explore the ethical use of the technology.

Q: What initiatives is Dr. Grady implementing to support students in AI?

A: Dr. Grady is creating an AI-focused book club, a new AI minor with different concentrations, and hands-on workshops with access to companies like IBM, Amazon, and OpenAI.

Q: What is the AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Program?

A: The AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Program selects 10 students each year to receive hands-on training, mentorship, a stipend, and a certificate of completion.

Q: How is AI transforming industries?

A: AI is transforming every industry by providing new tools and technologies that can improve efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. It is crucial for students to see themselves in AI and figure out how to use this tool to stand out. 

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