Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is strengthening its artificial intelligence programs through AIHUB@CAU, an initiative supported by a $2.79 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant and developed in collaboration with Georgia Tech’s NSF AI Institute for Advances in Optimization (AI4OPT).
As part of NSF's ExpandAI program, AIHUB@CAU is designed to strengthen the university's capacity for AI education, research, and workforce development. The partnership connects CAU’s academic programs with Georgia Tech’s expertise in artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization and interdisciplinary research.
Led by Charles Pierre, associate professor in CAU’s Department of Mathematical Sciences and principal investigator (PI) for AIHUB@CAU, the initiative brings together faculty expertise in mathematical sciences, cyber-physical systems and business administration.
Expanding Academic Pathways in AI
A central part of the initiative is developing academic pathways that prepare students for opportunities in AI, from industry careers to advanced research.
During a Sept. 22 meeting at CAU's Thomas W. Cole Jr. Research Center for Science and Technology, Pierre shared updates on the university's undergraduate AI minors and master's-level AI programs. Students from some of the program's early cohorts also attended the meeting, reflecting the academic community taking shape around the initiative.
Dr. Roy George, chair of CAU's Cyber-Physical Systems Program and co-PI of AIHUB@CAU, discussed progress on further integrating AI into the university's doctoral offerings. Once these efforts are completed, the doctoral program will provide an additional pathway for students interested in pursuing AI research at the highest academic levels while strengthening CAU's long-term capacity in the field.
By connecting AI with mathematical sciences, business and cyber-physical systems, the programs aim to help students apply technical knowledge to challenges across disciplines and industries.
Expanding Faculty Expertise and Research Opportunities
Building sustainable AI programs requires faculty expertise, research capacity, and opportunities for collaboration. AIHUB@CAU's partnership with AI4OPT complements the institute's broader educational efforts, including faculty training programs that help educators develop skills in data science, artificial intelligence, and optimization. These experiences support the development of new coursework, strengthen institutional expertise, and help faculty bring emerging AI knowledge into their classrooms and research programs.
The collaboration also connects CAU to AI4OPT’s research in artificial intelligence and mathematical optimization. Based at Georgia Tech, the institute develops methods to improve complex decision-making in areas such as energy, logistics, supply chains and manufacturing. These collaborations create opportunities for interdisciplinary research while helping connect classroom learning to real-world applications.
Charles Pierre, principal investigator (PI) for AIHUB@CAU, address the audience of the Sept. 22 meeting.
