AI News and Events

Learn How to Get Involved with AI at DU

Exciting times are ahead at the University of Denver with a series of initiatives in AI learning and research. Through workshops, guest lectures from leading experts, and collaborative programs designed to foster creativity and knowledge sharing, the university continues to expand opportunities for students, researchers, and innovators to engage deeply with artificial intelligence and contribute to meaningful advancements.

Past Events

February 20, 2026

AI and Writing Across the Curriculum: Doubting and Believing

Writing has long been central to university education across disciplines. As generative AI reshapes how we create and communicate knowledge, educators and students must reconsider writing’s role in learning and the workplace. Join DU’s University Writing Program, in partnership with campus collaborators, for a day of discussion and hands-on exploration featuring national scholars and a panel of Front Range writing faculty.

9:00am - 2:45pm
Anderson Academic Commons 290

Event Details

Speakers

Jennifer Sano-Franchini

Gaziano Family Legacy Professor and Associate Professor of English, West Virginia University

Antonio Byrd

Associate Professor, University of Missouri–Kansas City
Co-Chair, MLA Task Force on GenAI Initiatives

Agenda

9:00am: Coffee and Check In
9:15am: Introduction
9:30am: Keynote 1 – Jennifer Sano-Franchini, PhD
- Believing Game / Doubting Game
10:30am: Break (15 minutes)
10:45am: Keynote 2 – Antonio Byrd, PhD
- On Feeling Data: Curating What Matters in Local AI Models for Intertextual Engagements Believing and Experimenting with AI
11:45am: Break and Box Lunch
12:00pm: Lunchtime Panel – Writing Across Colorado
1:00pm: Break Out Session 2
1:45pm: Break (15 minutes)
2:00pm: Break Out Session 2
2:45pm: Closing Remarks

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DU's AI Try-a-Thon

On Friday, April 5, 2024, the University of Denver hosted industry leaders from around the region who were developing cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools. DU’s first ever AI “Try-A-Thon” was an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and insight into the possibilities AI offered in academic and professional settings.

The use of AI had been viewed by some as a threat to privacy, security and lacked the human-like creativity and empathy. However, companies participating in this innovative event demonstrated how a diverse array of AI tools were being developed to improve the teaching, learning and research that was taking place in Denver.

Amazon, Microsoft, Adobe, Oracle and Zoom were some of the ten vendors participating in “Try-A-Thon.” The 20 different demonstrations showcased how AI technology could help enhance video recordings, generate images and infographics in minutes, and build AI-generated apps. Companies also showcased new tools that could be used to prevent students from using AI in certain assignments.

Also on display during the “Try-A-Thon” was DU’s own cutting-edge AI invention — Robot Ryan. Created by students and researchers at the University of Denver, Robot Ryan was designed to help individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. Outfitted with artificial intelligence technology, Ryan was equipped with cognitive games that helped keep the brain active and could interact and carry on conversations.

Opening Session

From Sci-fi to Syllabi: Considering the Opportunities and Challenges of AI in Education

Closing Session

Reflections and Next Steps Facilitated by Provost Mary Clark, Dr. Stephen Hutt, Microsoft Corporate Vice President for AI Lili Cheng

Contact

Undergraduate Admission

For visit-related questions, please call 303-871-7711.