Bridging the AI Divide: A Collaborative Model for Equitable Innovation

Tuesday, October 28, 2025 | 1:00PM–1:45PM CT | Meeting Room 207 A, Level 2
Session Type: Breakout Session
Delivery Format: Presentation/Panel Session
This session introduces the Equitable AI Alliance (EAIA), a bold multi-institutional collaboration between San Diego State University, the University of California San Diego, and the San Diego Community College District. Backed by a $1.5M California AI Grand Challenge grant, EAIA leverages a regional, cross-segmental model to reduce equity gaps in artificial intelligence access, literacy, and implementation. The panel will share how the alliance was formed, provide insights from large-scale student AI usage surveys, discuss lessons learned from creating and scaling a shared microcredential in academic AI applications, and describe the rollout of campus-specific generative AI-powered virtual assistants. Attendees will gain inspiration and practical strategies for forming collaborative AI initiatives in their own regions that center on equity, affordability, and accessibility—ensuring that all students, regardless of background, are prepared for responsible engagement in an AI-driven future.            

Presenters

  • Michelle Fischthal

    Vice Chancellor, Institutional Innovation and Effectiveness, San Diego Community College District

  • James Frazee

    Vice President & Chief Information Officer, San Diego State University

  • David Goldberg

    Associate Professor, San Diego State University

  • Vincent Kellen

    Chief Information Officer, Texas A&M University System