Wake Forest launches AI resource hub and community-guided guidelines

Wake Forest has launched ai.wfu.edu, a new centralized resource hub for generative artificial intelligence (GAI), and released its first formal Guidelines for Generative AI Use for faculty and staff. The site and guidelines are the result of nearly two years of collaborative work led by cross-functional faculty and staff working groups. Their charge: to shape an ethical, practical, and community-centered approach to the opportunities and challenges presented by AI.

Though other universities have begun issuing similar resources, Wake Forest’s guidelines stand apart. Rooted in our mission of Pro Humanitate and directly aligned with the University’s Strategic Framework, the new guidelines articulate an intentional and principled way forward—one that invites innovation while safeguarding our academic values and human dignity.

“These guidelines reflect the very best of Wake Forest—our collaborative spirit, our commitment to whole-person education, and our drive to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers in a rapidly evolving world,” said Provost Michele Gillespie. “I’m deeply grateful to the faculty and staff who have helped us stay ahead of the curve while staying true to our mission.”

This vision is built around three mutually reinforcing principles that mirror the University’s strategic priorities:

• Honoring human dignity and wellbeing
• Embracing transformative learning and meaningful work
• Advancing the ethical pursuit of knowledge

Together, these principles provide a values-driven foundation for academic and operational use of AI across disciplines and roles.

To support the thoughtful implementation of these principles, the AI Working Groups developed guidelines for both academic and administrative generative AI use across campus. They address practical, ethical, and responsible use of AI tools in teaching and learning as well as in operational or administrative tasks. Key considerations in the guidelines focus on issues such as including instructors’ AI policies on course syllabi, safeguarding student and university data, and ensuring equitable access to AI tools.

The Working Group for academics also developed a “Discussion Framework” tool designed to help academic programs engage in meaningful conversations about how AI is used within their specific contexts. These peer conversations are critical: university-wide workshops can provide valuable information, but consistent student experiences and equitable practices often depend on faculty teaching in the same areas coming together to produce complementary approaches.

“Perspectives from across the College and Schools made it clear there couldn’t be a one-size-fits-all approach to GenAI in academic programs or classes,” said Anne Hardcastle, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs and chair of the academic AI working group. “The Discussion Framework helps faculty translate the principles and guidelines into local practices appropriate to the needs of their students, curricula, and disciplines.”

The newly launched ai.wfu.edu is designed to be a dynamic and evolving hub that helps Wake Forest faculty and staff stay informed, empowered, and connected. The site features:

• A curated list of AI tools that are free or licensed by the University
• Learning resources to build knowledge and confidence around GAI use
• A calendar of AI-related events and professional development opportunities
• Guidance for starting conversations in your department using the GAI Discussion Framework
• Use cases and examples of how GAI is being used across campus
• Opportunities to engage with colleagues and share questions, ideas, and best practices

“As generative AI reshapes the way we learn, teach, and work, this resource hub offers a principled foundation for navigating change rooted in Wake Forest’s mission and values,” said Mur Muchane, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer. “This is not just about adopting new tools; it is about shaping a future that reflects who we are as a community.”

This launch builds on Wake Forest’s broader commitment to supporting our community in navigating emerging technologies. In December 2024, the University hosted AI Fest, a two-day event exploring the creativity and utility of AI in the Wake Forest workplace. Sessions ranged from Google Workspace and Adobe Express tools to discussions about AI’s impact on higher education and accessibility.

More recently, the University introduced Deacs.AI, a new podcast created specifically for Wake Forest faculty and staff. Featuring casual, peer-led conversations, the show explores how colleagues across campus are integrating AI into teaching, learning, and daily workflows. From reshaping pedagogy to boosting productivity, each episode offers practical takeaways and thoughtful perspectives. Deacs.AI is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

The launch of ai.wfu.edu marks a significant milestone, but this is only the beginning. As the landscape of generative AI continues to shift, so too will the questions and opportunities it presents. The University will continue to support ongoing engagement, conversation, and reflection, including new events, use cases, and stories to come this fall. Look for updates and new ways to connect as we collectively shape a thoughtful, values-driven approach to AI at Wake Forest. In the meantime, faculty and staff are encouraged to explore the site, use the guidelines to inform their practices, and connect with colleagues to shape the next chapter of this important work.

• Visit the new site: ai.wfu.edu
• Read the full guidelines: Guidelines for Academic Use | Guidelines for Administrative Use
• Start a conversation in your unit: Download the GAI Discussion Framework to guide team-based reflection and alignment