UNF explores AI topics at 2025 Ethics Conference
The University of North Florida's College of Arts and Sciences and Professional and Lifelong Learning recently hosted the 2025 Ethics Conference, sponsored by the Jacksonville Business Journal, Florida Power & Light and Comcast.
The conference explored how generative AI is reshaping industries, workplaces and the global economy, focusing on the intersection of business, technology and ethics. Through expert panels, real-world case studies and engaging discussions, speakers examined the challenges, opportunities and frameworks for responsible AI usage.
The keynote was presented by Dr. Evan Selinger from the Rochester Institute of Technology, focused on AI ethics in business. Drawing on years of experience teaching technology ethics to students preparing for real-world careers, consulting for companies and advising the government, he explained that ethics can serve as a strategic business asset, helping organizations reduce risk and build trust in the age of AI.
The panel discussion on navigating ethical challenges with AI was moderated by Dr. Nick Seabrook, UNF political science professor, and featured Amy Boyer with Mayo Clinic, Alyson Freeman with Dell Technologies and Vaughn Alliton with TIAA. Panelists emphasized that human oversight and governance are critical for mitigating risks associated with AI use. Boyer highlighted business resiliency, urging organizations to ensure operations can function even when AI systems fail. Freeman underscored the need for cross-functional teams and consistent risk assessments to maintain accountability, describing governance as the foundation of ethical AI. Alliton cautioned that while AI can build efficiency, it can also erode public trust quickly if misused.
The conference also hosted sessions by UNF faculty and staff members including Dr. Joshua Gellers, Dr. Drew Thoeni, Dr. Mitch Haney and Jade Yuen.