Eight SUNY campuses broaden AI development

NEW YORK (WBNG) -- Governor Kathy Hochul announced that eight SUNY campuses are developing departments, centers and institutes of AI and Society.

Hochul said this is to engage diverse disciplines and communities, broaden AI development to prepare students for the future and advance the use of AI for the public good.

Through this program, New York State has provided $5 million in funding to promote inclusive AI research, address ethical AI concerns and advance responsible data use.

“The progression of AI research in New York State is going to inspire other states to follow our path,” Governor Hochul said. “Investing in AI within the SUNY system is an investment in our students to expand their knowledge about what the future will bring. We are not just preparing students for AI – we’re shaping how AI serves society, ensuring it strengthens communities and our economy.”

Officials said SUNY is delivering on Governor Hochul’s vision of artificial intelligence for the public good. Projects are up and running at the first “alpha” phase of the Empire AI computing center, housed at the University at Buffalo.

Governor Hochul’s FY2026 Executive Budget provides additional resources to expand Empire AI’s computing capacity and provide additional computing resources for SUNY researchers.

Two early SUNY projects include Binghamton University researching large language models and antisemitism on social media to detect hateful content. The other project is a 3D foundation model for high-throughput characterization of metal-organic frameworks for climate change applications.

“Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, SUNY researchers, faculty and students are leading the way in using AI to advance the public good,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “SUNY’s commitment to academic excellence includes making it possible for students from a wide range of disciplines to come together, explore new ideas, and develop the skills that will lead to lifelong success.”