University-Wide AI Policy Initiative (AIPI)

William & Mary’s university-wide Artificial Intelligence Policy Initiative (“AIPI”) was established in the fall of 2024 to recommend the design and establishment of comprehensive policies by university decision makers that will guide the ethical, effective, and responsible use of AI across academic, research, and operational domains at the university.

Building on its stated values, William & Mary is committed to leading in a human-centered manner, which involves critical thinking about the use of Artificial Intelligence^* (AI) in ways that prioritizes human needs, values, and well-being in the design and operation of AI. The ethical development and application of Generative AI^** (GenAI) by faculty, staff, and students across various domains such as education, research, and societal impact require a collective commitment to a shared vision. The university leverages its liberal arts foundation and interdisciplinary strengths to foster critical thinking about GenAI ethics, promote responsible innovation, and prepare students to be ethical leaders and engaged citizens in a world with AI.

This report by William & Mary’s Artificial Intelligence Policy Initiative (“AIPI”) considers the challenges and opportunities facing William & Mary in the current AI landscape. The AIPI committee members strongly believe that GenAI is an effective tool to help enhance student learning, prepare students for the world of work, add to the efficiency of conducting research, and provide a means to acquire critical thinking skills.

AIPI Final Report

The Initiative is charged with initiating policy formation in the following subject areas:

Support for the ethical and responsible management of data and resources

The AIPI will provide dedicated support for managing resources related to AI across the university. A support and consultation model will focus on ethical and responsible use across schools and departments.
AI in the classroom

Develop the design of policies, frameworks and best practices regarding the use of AI tools by both students and faculty in the classroom setting, supporting learning with AI without compromising academic integrity. Create clear communication channels to inform students and faculty about the boundaries and best practices of AI use in an academic context.
Faculty guidance on AI in research and analysis

Develop a framework to encourage and support the incorporation of AI tools into research and academic analysis where appropriate. Propose strategies for faculty development to support educators and researchers' AI literacy and ethical AI use in both faculty and student qualitative and quantitative research.
Regulation of AI in university operations

Recommend policies for the responsible use of AI in all university operations, including human resources, finance, facilities management, and student services. Establish governance mechanisms to monitor the ongoing use of AI technologies in university operations, while maintaining compliance with legal, ethical, and policy standards.

In addition, the AIPI will offer detailed recommendations for the establishment of a university-wide council to (1) manage the effective implementation of AI Policy; and (2) update all AI policies as appropriate.

Timeline: The Committee will begin its work immediately upon formation. Final policy recommendations were submitted to the university administration by July 1, 2025.

Reporting: The Committee will report to the Office of the Provost and maintain regular communication with the university’s Faculty Assembly, administrative leadership, and other relevant bodies.

Committee Membership

David Yalof, Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs (Co-chair)
Pamela Eddy, Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs & Development (Co-chair)
Doug Schmidt, Dean, School of Computing, Data Sciences &Physics
Joshua Burk, Faculty Fellow
Cristiano Fanelli, Assistant Professor, Data Science
Rachel Chung, Clinical Associate Professor, School of Business
William D’Alessandro, Assistant Professor, Philosophy
Katalin Wargo, Director of Academic Innovation & Pedagogical Partnerships
Andrew Crawford, Deputy Chief Information Officer
Janice Zhang, Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Lindy Johnson, C&I Department Chair and Associate Professor, School of Education
Iria Giuffrida, Assistant Dean for Academic & Faculty Affairs, W&M Law School

If you have questions about the committee’s work, please contact [[aipi]].

AIPI Subject Areas

Support for the ethical and responsible management of data and resources

AI in the classroom

Faculty guidance on AI in research and analysis

Regulation of AI in university operations

Committee Membership

Committee Membership