president’s report to the community Dear Community Member, It seems there’s no escaping artificial intelligence. It is in the news for what it achieves, for example, early diagnoses of serious diseases, and where it fails, such as chatbots that mislead impressionable teens. The challenge of our time is how to use it wisely. David Ghidiu, associate professor of computing sciences, is part of a core group exploring this question for FLCC. Among his mantras about AI: Co-create. Don’t abdicate. What he means is that it’s our job to use AI to explore issues and refine our ideas, but to always think critically about the feedback any of the popular apps provide. This was a key takeaway for alumna Shena Edington-Bright ’24, who attended FLCC's first community AI summit in June. AI doesn’t have all the answers, but it can provide knowledge and perspectives that the average person cannot achieve on their own. “I previously saw AI as one entity, but now understand that it contains multitudes,” explains Shena, who works as an intake specialist at Simco. “No two people think alike, and AI can be used to replicate this characteristic and help explore topics from many angles.” At FLCC, we have always understood the value of different perspectives and experiences. It’s why we have advisory boards to guide what students learn. It’s why we look to partnerships to improve our programs. It’s why we value diversity of background and experience in our students and employees. For example, the Finger Lakes Law Enforcement Academy now offers its classes for new police and corrections officers at our main campus. This opens the door for a stronger relationship with FLCC's criminal justice program. Our plans for a plant science building at the main campus are richer for the participation of the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County. You will find details about these initiatives and our work with AI in this report. We look to you, the alumni and friends of the College, to continue your collaborations with us, particularly as we explore the potential of artificial intelligence. Best regards, Robert K. Nye President, Finger Lakes Community College IN THIS REPORT Leading in AI, pages 18-19 A key partnership, page 20 Who we serve, page 21 Plant science update, page 22 Demographics, page 22 College and Foundation finances, page 23 Our supporters: pages 24-30 Nearly 200 FLCC employees and community members gathered at the main campus in June to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in their workplaces. As with its degree, certificate, and workforce programs, the College’s approach to AI starts with considering the needs of the community. PHOTO BY AMANDA WHITBECK
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTcyNDA=