About Generative AI

What is GenAI?

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) refers to AI systems that can create new content—such as text, images, music, and more—by learning from existing data. Unlike traditional AI, which primarily focuses on recognizing patterns and making predictions, GenAI is designed to generate novel outputs that closely mimic human creativity. These systems, powered by advanced algorithms and neural networks, analyze vast amounts of data to produce content that can range from chat capabilities, to writing long form text to generating artwork from simple prompts. As GenAI becomes more integrated into various academic and professional fields, it offers exciting opportunities for innovation and creative expression. For a more detailed dive into GenAI read the library's guide on GenAI.

The University of Richmond has established a "GenAI" Working Group to explore and address the implications of this rapidly evolving technology. This cross-functional group has focused on developing guidelines and resources to ensure that GenAI is used ethically and effectively within our community. The guidelines, which are available for faculty, staff, and students, provide a framework for the responsible use of GenAI, balancing the benefits of AI-driven creativity with the need to uphold academic integrity and ethical standards. As the University continues to engage with this technology, the GenAI Working Group remains committed to fostering a thoughtful and informed approach to its integration across campus.

Gen AI Working Group

The Generative AI Working Group was started in January 2023 as a team of people from across the academic and administrative areas of UR to assess the opportunities and challenges posed by generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), particularly as it relates to the University's strategic goals and alignment.

Members:

Keith McIntosh VP & Chief Information Officer
Andrew Bell Technology Consultant & Faculty Hub Operations Manager	Linda Boland Professor of Biology
John Craft Director, Information Security	Kyle Jenkins Social Sciences Librarian
Nicole Maurantonio Associate Provost of Academic Affairs	Kitty Maynard Director, Teaching & Scholarship Hub
Saif Mehkari Associate Professor of Economics	Mark Nichols Assistant VP Telecom, Media & User Services
Marco Ortiz Executive Director, Weinstein Learning Center	Bobby Paxton Director, Web Services
Lauren Tilton Professor of Digital Humanities