In the fall, Jamestown Community College created an Artificial Intelligence task force.

Holger Ekanger, JCC vice president of workforce development, said one of the primary roles of the task force was to create a position statement. JCC Board of Trustees members on Tuesday endorsed the college’s Artificial Intelligence statement. AI is constantly evolving, and it keeps finding its way into almost everything.

“The position statement was one in which we wanted to share internally and to the community how we as a college will embrace AI. It’s really a general statement of guiding principles for how we as an institution are looking to adopt and integrate AI, and be very responsible, and positive, before we’re thinking about the way we want to do this,” Ekanger said.

Trustee Dennis Drew said he was pleased, going forward, that the community will be involved as JCC embraces AI.

JCC President Dr. Daniel DeMarte said area employers also want to hear more about AI.

“There is a role we (JCC) can help play with them,” DeMarte said.

The JCC AI document states “as advancements in generative artificial intelligence (AI) continue to shape industries, economies, and educational landscapes, JCC recognizes the potential of AI to enhance learning experiences, streamline administrative processes, prepare students and the community for a world increasingly influenced by AI technologies. We understand that AI is a rapidly evolving field. As such, we will learn and continue to review our policies, procedures, and educational offerings and adapt them in accordance with the best evidence available at the time.”

Ekanger added that JCC’s AI statement will be a living document that will be added to and revised.

“AI is going to change tremendously and fast, but this is at least that first step in providing a document that will indicate and show how we are approaching an AI,” Ekanger said.

The document also said that AI holds transformative potential for community colleges, and its adoption requires thoughtful planning, ethical oversight, and alignment with our educational mission. JCC is dedicated to a balanced approach that enhances learning, respects privacy, and supports equitable access for all students.

“As we move forward, we will continue to foster dialogue and adjust our strategies, ensuring that AI serves as a tool to empower our students and employees as well as to strengthen our communities.”