< Previous50 UNIVERSITY NEWS AUBURNTIGERS.COM Few things have changed the world more than artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years. At Auburn University, faculty mem- bers are embracing this technology in ways that impact nearly every corner of campus. Professors use AI in the classroom to modernize curriculum, while researchers harness its power to revolutionize laborato- ry work. Their adoption of this new wave has elevated Auburn as an academic leader. The newly launched AI in Teaching and Learning Showcase, administered by the Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning, highlights campus projects and educators who have success- fully integrated AI into their teaching. Faculty across campus say AI enhances research, teaching and student engage- ment. AI in action In the Harrison College of Pharmacy, Erika Kleppinger uses generative AI to simulate client interactions for students looking to hone their skills working with patients. Colleague Elizabeth Covington created a custom GPT to reveal patient information as students ask it questions, allowing them to practice clinical deci- sion-making and develop their own treat- ment recommendations. Russell Mailen in aerospace engineer- ing has implemented AI in a design project for the outer mold line of aerospace vehi- cles. His students use AI to define key per- formance parameters and render graphi- cal designs from hypothetical prompts. Georges Fares in consumer and design sciences created an AI-based assignment for interior design students, using im- age-generating tools to develop designs that promote relaxation and mindfulness while exploring the psychological and emotional impacts of their spaces. Propelling progress The Biggio Center provides guidance on implementing AI tools and pedagogical strategies. Executive Director Asim Ali is at the forefront of Auburn’s AI awakening, in- cluding leading the AUX: Auburn Immer- sive Experiences internal grant program. Ali and the center have positioned Auburn as an AI leader in the SEC and beyond. He encourages faculty to critically explore AI and integrate it thoughtfully into their teaching to better support stu- dents in navigating the responsible use of emerging technologies. “I use generative AI in the class I teach for the Harbert College of Business to help students simulate real-world business scenarios and contemplate uses of AI,” Ali said. “The AI Showcase highlights that across disciplines, our faculty are leaning into innovation and preparing students for the world ahead.” On the research side, AI@AU, led by the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, expands AI research and education across campus, fueling thought-sharing and growth. AI research has produced numer- ous academic publications and several news items, illustrating its broad impact. Recently, Engineering established the Auburn University Center for Artificial Intel- ligence and Cybersecurity Engineering to advance AI-driven cybersecurity solutions. Virtual reality is for real Faculty are also utilizing virtual reality (VR) as a powerful AI-driven tool in education. The College of Nursing’s 10,000- square-foot simulation suite replicates hospital, clinic and community settings, al- lowing students to practice skills and com- plete some clinical hours. Tiffani Chidume takes simulation further by using VR to create real-world scenarios for students. Pharmacy’s Kim Garza pairs VR with motion-restricting gloves to simulate the physical limitations of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. By experiencing it for themselves, first-year students develop empathy, and newly diagnosed patients better understand the disease for more informed treatment decisions. Garza is collaborating with Engineering and Auburn University Libraries to expand VR scenarios and adapt haptic gloves — wearable devices that simulate touch — to deepen the experience of various disease states. Mark Traynor, director of the Culinary Science program, developed a fully im- mersive VR environment to supplement theoretical learning in food safety and sanitation. Rachel Prado from chemistry and bio- chemistry uses VR to help students visual- ize organic molecules and reactions, trans- forming how organic chemistry is taught. Michael Howard from chemical engi- neering recently won a National Science Foundation CAREER Award for devel- oping products to streamline production of the drying-induced assembly of colloi- dal-particle coatings, such as paint. His VR work was noted by reviewers for its educa- tional impact. UNIVERSITY NEWS BY: NEIL REID AI ACROSS CAMPUS: AUBURN FACULTY, RESEARCHERS LEVERAGING USES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Asim Ali leads campus-wide initiatives focused on innovative teaching strategies, including Auburn’s AI and immersive learning efforts. Virtual reality is a powerful educational tool on campus, helping faculty simulate real-world scenarios and transform learning across disciplines. 52 2025 SENIOR CLASS AUBURNTIGERS.COM 2025 SENIOR CLASS Continued from page 24 Continued on page 64 Bobby Jamison-TravisTate Johnson Justin Jones Mason MurphyChris Murray Thank You Seniors54 2025 STADIUM MAP 2025 STADIUM MAP AUBURNTIGERS.COMThe Medical School making a difference in our community EVERY DAY ©2025 Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. All rights reserved. Please go to www.vcom.edu/outcomes for a copy of our outcomes report. At the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Auburn, Alabama our mission is to train future physicians who are community-focused and ready to make a difference. That starts right here at home. Over the last 20 years, VCOM students and alumni have made great improvements to healthcare in southern Appalachia, but there is still work to be done. We’re inviting you to join us in this mission and make a difference for our community. 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