Spelman College, a renowned historically Black liberal arts institution for women, has appointed Ayanna M. Howard, a noted roboticist and artificial intelligence expert, as its new president. This marks a significant change for the college, which has traditionally been led by individuals with backgrounds in fields such as medicine, anthropology, and psychology.
Dr. Howard, 54, previously served as the dean of Ohio State University’s engineering college. Her selection reflects a strategic response to evolving trends in higher education, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the global workforce.
In her new role, Dr. Howard emphasized the importance of integrating A.I. into the liberal arts curriculum. She believes that students at institutions like Spelman should critically engage with A.I. by questioning its implications, posing ethical queries, and reflecting on its potential impacts. “Just because we can, should we?” she posed as a critical question for students to consider.
Spelman College, with approximately 2,700 students, is consistently recognized as one of the top historically Black colleges in the United States. Dr. Howard noted that the college’s smaller size and rigorous academic environment make it especially well-suited to swiftly adapt its curriculum and teaching strategies in response to technological advancements.
Any curriculum changes under Dr. Howard’s leadership will build upon Spelman’s rich legacy and will be developed through collaborative efforts involving professors and students, ensuring that the college maintains its core educational values while embracing innovation.