Armacost’s Vision: How UND is Set to Become North Dakota’s Premier AI University

During the recent State of the University address, President Andrew Armacost announced two ambitious goals for the University of North Dakota (UND) focused on innovation and artificial intelligence (AI). He aims to launch or significantly support four new companies based on research from UND by the end of the academic year. Additionally, he expressed a vision for the university to be recognized as North Dakota’s hub for AI.

These goals are referred to as “moonshots,” inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s vision of landing on the moon. Earlier this year, UND also celebrated a significant milestone by launching satellites. Armacost believes that aiming high can inspire results—”When you say, ‘to infinity and beyond,’ sometimes people listen,” he remarked.

In his address, Armacost also outlined the theme for this academic year: community. He emphasized the importance of unity, especially in uncertain times for higher education. Instead of a single word, like the gratitude and connection themes of previous years, he chose “community” to reflect collective efforts. Quilts were highlighted as a fitting symbol; they represent how individual pieces can create something beautiful together.

The moonshots have a community focus as well. Armacost envisions that becoming the AI university will not only foster innovation but also set a national standard for how AI can benefit society. This vision involves partnerships with local businesses, preparing students for the evolving job market, and ensuring research is practically applied.

Another significant goal for UND is improving digital accessibility. While strides have been made in physical accessibility on campus, Armacost stated that the university aims for 85% compliance in digital materials by the end of the fall semester and complete compliance by April 2026. “We’re doing it to support other human beings who deserve an education,” he said.

Beyond these initiatives, work on pay equity continues at the university. UND aims to address salary gaps and establish clearer career paths for faculty and staff. This is important for retaining talent and ensuring fairness in the work environment.

A vital ongoing project is the repatriation of Native American remains found on campus. Armacost reiterated that this effort is not just a legal obligation but a moral one. The university is committed to returning these remains and artifacts to their rightful places and educating the community to prevent similar issues in the future.

With educational landscapes changing rapidly, initiatives like those at UND highlight the significance of community-driven goals. As universities navigate modern challenges, their ability to innovate and collaborate will be key to their success. The drive to launch new companies and expand AI usage at UND may not only uplift the institution but also set a benchmark for others.

For a deeper understanding of AI’s impact, one might refer to a recent report from the Pew Research Center, which highlighted that 61% of Americans believe AI will create more jobs than it eliminates. This perspective lays a foundation for educational institutions to prepare students for these emerging roles.

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