WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University today announced it received a $5,00 grant from Truist West Virginia Foundation to support AI Literacy at the University.
The grant will be used to create a computer lab on campus to provide AI instruction to students to meet workforce preparation needs. The computers will run locally-housed AI models, such as Ollama, so student and institutional data stay on campus infrastructure rather than being sent to third-party cloud providers. Often referred to as “edge” computing this lab will provide a more sustainable option for students.
“Truist’s $5,000 gift will help us do something very practical for our students. AI is already changing the workplace, and our goal is to make sure students are not just reading about it or hearing about it in class, but actually using these tools in meaningful ways,” said Dr. Michael Tompkins, Assistant Professor of Business.
Dr. Cathy Monteroso, Provost, said, “This investment enables us to integrate cutting-edge technology in ways that strengthen student success, promote equity in learning, and ensure long-term sustainability in how we teach and learn.”
West Liberty University’s AI Committee has been meeting for the past two years to develop AI guidelines for the campus and integrate AI literacy outcomes into the curriculum. New micro-credentials will be available this Fall for faculty, staff and students to increase knowledge of AI and its impact on higher education.
“This support from the Truist WV Foundation will enable West Liberty University to ensure that our students not only gain proficiency in this essential workplace technology, but they will also learn to deploy the technology ethically and responsibly,” said Dr. Ann Saurbier, Dean of the Gary E. West College of Business.
About Truist West Virginia Foundation
The Truist West Virginia Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation’s (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. Since 2000, the foundation and its predecessors have been making strategic investments in nonprofit organizations to help ensure the communities it serves have more opportunities for a better quality of life. The Truist West Virginia Foundation’s grants and activities focus on economic development, education, arts, healthcare, social services and financial literacy. Learn more by contacting Jordan Wooldridge at TWVF@truist.com.
About West Liberty University
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.
Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
