The University of Nevada, Reno has launched PACK AI, a student-driven Artificial Intelligence initiative designed to equip students and faculty with skills, resources, and tools to integrate AI into academics, research, and campus operations.

The program aims to ensure students gain competencies to compete in their fields, support faculty in integrating AI into teaching and research, and improve the University’s efficiency through AI-driven business processes.

“The University of Nevada, our state’s original land grant institution, has been a visionary leader in education, research, and community engagement for over 150 years,” University President Brian Sandoval said. “PACK AI is our next institutional imperative that provides transformative educational opportunities for our faculty and students, groundbreaking research that leads our state and nation, and provides the research and workforce of the future for our region to excel in economic development.”

Beginning this semester, incoming students will complete an introduction to AI module during their NevadaFIT experience.

The module will address AI usage, ethics, academic policies, and guidance on incorporating AI into coursework.

First-year and transfer students will also receive Microsoft CoPilot and Apple Intelligence on their University-issued iPads through the Digital Wolf Pack Initiative.

Faculty and staff will have access to AI resources, including computing tools for research, personalized learning enhancements, streamlined grading and scheduling systems, and adaptive content for different learning styles.

The University is also expanding its use of AI tools for data analytics and operational efficiency.

PACK AI will launch with a presentation by Dr. Joel Davis, Executive Director of the David F. Miller Retail Center at the University of Florida, on Sept. 4 and 5. Davis has 25 years of experience in analytics, AI, and business operations, with current research focusing on integrating analytics and AI into corporate decision-making and adoption strategies.

Additional PACK AI components include:

  • The Lake Tahoe campus is offering a one-credit introduction to AI course as part of its fall weekend schedule
  • Nevada Online is developing a three-course certificate in AI covering introduction, ethics, and applications
  • Workshops through the Advancements in Teaching Excellence program, led by Dr. Sarah Cummings, on using generative AI in classes
  • Opportunities from the Office of Research and Innovation for faculty to expand AI-related research across disciplines

A campus-wide working group of faculty and staff is reviewing policies, identifying best practices, and recommending approaches to incorporate AI opportunities University-wide.