Events & Highlights

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Future of High School (H5) Convening: AI in Education and the Economy

Grand Canyon University recently hosted an important statewide conversation on the future of learning, in partnership with the Arizona Institute for Education & the Economy and the Helios Education Foundation. The event, Future of High School (H5) Convening: AI in Education & the Economy, brought together educators, leaders, and innovators from across Arizona to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping education and the workforce.

Dr. Helen Crompton, a leading researcher in AI and learning technologies, delivered a forward-looking keynote that examined how schools can prepare students for an AI-driven world. Her presentation connected directly to key themes affecting Arizona students today, including:

  • The rapid emergence of AI as a core skill for future careers
  • The need for K12 and higher education partnerships to modernize learning systems
  • The importance of equipping students with critical thinking, digital literacy, and adaptability
  • The call for schools to move beyond fear or hype and instead adopt thoughtful, measured approaches to AI integration

Leaders at the event also emphasized the power of collaboration. With 1.5 million children in Arizona, hundreds of organizations are working together to ensure students gain the skills needed to thrive in a changing economy. GCU was recognized for its ongoing commitment to supporting statewide innovation and educational partnerships.

Why This Matters for Arizona’s Future

AI is transforming the workforce faster than ever. By 2030, students will need strong skills in areas such as AI, big data, cybersecurity, creative problem-solving, and leadership. Schools play a crucial role in preparing them for this new landscape—and events like H5 move that work forward.

CETLA is proud to highlight GCU’s leadership in AI and educational innovation and will continue to showcase the campus events, partnerships, and initiatives shaping the future of learning.

Steamboat Institute Debate Hosted at GCU

Grand Canyon University recently hosted the Steamboat Institute Campus Liberty Tour for a timely debate on the resolution: “Be it resolved, in the near term, artificial intelligence will do more harm than good.”

The discussion featured two distinguished scholars:

  • Dr. Bret Weinstein, Evolutionary Biologist, Author, and Host of The DarkHorse Podcast (affirmative)
  • Dr. Michael Strain, Director of Economic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute (negative)

Moderated by Brad Polumbo, Independent Journalist and Co-Founder of BASEDPolitics.

The event brought thoughtful perspectives on the risks, opportunities, and societal impact of AI, reflecting GCU’s commitment to fostering dialogue around emerging technologies.

Watch Debate Here