Advancing our roadmap with launch of AI Hub
Dear faculty, staff and students,
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, learn and connect. As a land-grant institution, the University’s leadership in this space is more than an opportunity; it is a critical commitment to Minnesota.
We are taking two critical steps to unify our efforts and advance our Elevate Extraordinary 2030 strategic roadmap: the appointment of Dr. Galin Jones as vice provost for artificial intelligence, effective March 4, 2026, and the launch of the University’s Artificial Intelligence Hub.
The University’s leadership in computing and data science spans decades, from early supercomputing advances to foundational contributions in algorithms, large-scale data systems, and interdisciplinary research. Today, we are home to one of only a few NSF-funded AI institutes, and our faculty contribute to global conversations on AI policy, including Dr. Vipin Kumar’s recent appointment to a scientific panel advising the United Nations.
About the vice provost
In this new role, Dr. Jones will lead the launch and growth of the University’s work to strengthen our leadership in AI innovation, education and public impact across the University, our research and outreach efforts, and throughout the state. Dr. Jones’ deep experience collaborating with a wide range of researchers, educators and industry partners is an essential strength as we build a more unified approach to AI across disciplines.
Dr. Jones is the Lynn Y.S. Lin Professor of Statistics on the Twin Cities campus, director of the School of Statistics in the College of Liberal Arts, and chair of the Data Science and AI Hub. He is a fellow of the American Statistical Association and the Institute for Mathematical Statistics, and currently serves as co-editor of ASA Discoveries and associate editor for the Journal of the American Statistical Association and Harvard Data Science Review. He earned his doctorate in statistics from the University of Florida.
Investing in responsible AI
The AI Hub will serve as the University’s central engine for AI leadership — aligning education, research, operations and external partnerships under a cohesive strategy.
Under Dr. Jones’ leadership, we will expand AI literacy and governance efforts for students, faculty, and staff while strengthening partnerships with policymakers, economic development leaders, and industry across Minnesota. We aim to ensure that innovation is matched by accountability and trust. We will work to develop AI applications that are sustainable and human centered. The Vice Provost will also drive statewide AI efforts that benefit learners at every stage — from Pre-K–12 and higher education to professionals in healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, advanced materials, and beyond.
Many universities are investing in AI. What distinguishes our approach is its intentionality. After more than a year of planning and collaboration, this appointment formalizes a coordinated strategy designed to amplify our existing strengths and position both the University and the state for long-term leadership. Thank you to the members of the President’s AI Task Force and all our University community members already contributing in this space.
We look forward to sharing more about the AI Hub in the coming weeks.
Sincerely,
Gretchen Ritter
Executive Vice President and Provost