MHC faculty named an AI education fellow
Íøºì±¬ÁÏ Assistant Professor of Computer Science Diane Uwacu is a member of the inaugural cohort of NSF NAIRR AI Education Fellows of the Computing Research Association.
The Computing Research Association (CRA) announced its inaugural cohort of 25 National Science Foundation (NSF) National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Resource (NAIRR) AI Education Fellows, selected to serve as national ambassadors for advancing AI education through the NAIRR Pilot Classroom and the . Íøºì±¬ÁÏ Assistant Professor of Computer Science Diane Uwacu was honored to be selected as a member of this inaugural cohort.
Uwacu’s primary research investigates algorithmic motion planning, with applications in autonomous robotics and computational biology, and focuses on developing scalable, topologically guided navigation frameworks. She teaches about the intersection of technical proficiency and social responsibility. Her mentoring experience in foundational machine learning and research methodologies has contributed to her extensive experience in AI outreach and inclusive education. At Mount Holyoke, she teaches classes in AI ethics, examining the moral, cultural and systemic implications of algorithmic decision-making.
"AI is reshaping every corner of our society, making it more important than ever to broaden participation in this field. Through this fellowship, I am excited to further integrate high-performance computing and ethical inquiry into our curriculum," Uwacu said. "By utilizing the NAIRR Pilot Classroom, we are providing our students with tools to navigate the rigorous demands of contemporary AI on the leading edge of change."
The cohort represents 23 states, reflecting a broad geographical and institutional reach — spanning a wide range of higher education settings. These Fellows will expand access to high-quality AI education resources and foster effective AI teaching approaches nationwide.
"These Fellows will serve as ambassadors for AI education across the country, helping faculty and institutions leverage NAIRR resources to strengthen their courses and programs," said Jeff Forbes, director of broadening participation in computing initiatives at CRA and lead for the NAIRR AI Education initiative. "By elevating their leadership and connecting them nationally, we’re amplifying both their impact and the broader goals of the NAIRR AI Education program."
Funded by the NSF, the NAIRR AI Education Fellowship brings together faculty champions who are committed to strengthening undergraduate AI education. Fellows will use NAIRR Pilot Classroom resources to pilot and adapt courses and will support faculty nationwide in integrating these materials.
The fellowship term runs from March 2026 to February 2027 and includes a $5,000 stipend and national visibility as leaders in AI education. Fellows will lead monthly seminars, participate in strategic meetings and champion the adoption of AI education resources on their campuses and beyond.
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