North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is taking AI education to the next level thanks to its newest partner OpenAI.
Through NCCU’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER), this collaboration is empowering students, faculty and the Durham community with the skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.
The partnership kicked off with OpenAI Academy, a hands-on workshop where participants explored real-world applications of AI tools like ChatGPT.
“This partnership highlights NCCU’s commitment to innovation,” said Siobahn Day Grady, Ph.D., director of IAIER. “Together with OpenAI, we are breaking barriers and ensuring access to AI’s transformative potential.”
The event also featured a fireside chat with OpenAI Chief Economist Ronnie Chatterji, who shared insights on AI’s impact and career advice for students.
“The greatest advantage students have today is the ability to learn and experiment,” said Chatterji. “Use your time in school to explore your interests, discover your strengths and connect with professors across disciplines. Aligning what you’re good at with what you enjoy will set you up for success, whether in AI or another field.”
Shantel Riddick, a doctoral student in the Integrated Biosciences Ph.D. program, called the experience a game changer.
“It deepened my understanding of AI workflows, enhanced my research and sparked creativity,” said Riddick. “The OpenAI Academy workshop also reinforced integrity-driven AI use—skills I’ll carry throughout my academic career.”
And this is just the beginning.
NCCU and OpenAI are expanding their partnership with new workshops, developer training and events open to historically Black colleges and universities nationwide this fall. They’re also exploring joint research projects and potential investments in ethical AI innovation.
For more information about upcoming IAIER events and opportunities, visit here.
For more information about the OpenAI Academy, visit here.