Columbia College Chicago Welcomes NBCU Academy AI Summit to Campus

Campus Communications Staff / Oct 02, 2024

man on stage speaking to audienceBrian Cheung, NBC News business correspondent, functioned as emcee for part of the day’s programming.
two people sitting on stageAlum Kevin Cross ’91, NBC and Telemundo Chicago president and general manager (right) with Yvette Miley, NBCUniversal news group executive vice president, DEI.
two people talking at tableAlum Evrod Cassimy ’06, NBC 5 Chicago reporter and anchor, talks with an attendee.
Columbia students and alums are among those who came together with NBCUniversal executives and reporters to network and learn more about AI.

The Columbia College Chicago campus recently buzzed with more excitement than usual as students and alumni from Columbia and other institutions gathered for “AI Generation: A Student Innovation Summit” presented by NBCU Academy. This event brought together aspiring professionals for a day filled with networking opportunities, personalized resume feedback, and insightful industry-specific sessions focused on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across various media fields. Along the way they had a front-row seat to observing what it takes to stream a live, televised event.

The Columbia and NBCU Partnership 

Columbia is among 45 academic institutions that partner with NBCU Academy, a free, award-winning program designed to enhance skills and career opportunities in journalism, media, and tech, reflecting a commitment to fostering access and opportunity for individuals across diverse backgrounds. The initiative offers a variety of resources — including video tutorials, articles, virtual summits, and in-person panels — for journalists, content creators, and students. 

"This partnership with NBCU Academy offers our students a unique chance to connect with leaders in the field, something that often depends on existing industry connections," says Ames Hawkins, director of the School of Communication and Culture. 

Connecting With NBCU Universal Team Members, Including Successful Columbia Alums 

The summit kicked off with networking, resume reviews using AI, and meet-and-greet time with members of the NBCUniversal team, including Columbia alums Kevin Cross ’91, NBC and Telemundo Chicago president and general manager, and Evrod Cassimy ‘06, NBC 5 Chicago reporter and anchor. Speaking to the audience, Cassimy reminisced about his days at Columbia, recalling how he landed an internship at NBC5 that fueled his career. Cross offered insights on the value of using AI for journalistic “chores,” such as summarizing trial transcripts.  

Attendees also had opportunities to meet and hear from: 

  • Rashida Jones, MSNBC president 
  • Brian Cheung, NBC News business correspondent 
  • Yvette Miley, NBCUniversal news group executive vice president, DEI 
  • Tara Morgan, NBCUniversal early career recruitment manager 
  • Sandy Sharp, NBCU Academy senior director 
  • Byron Slosar, Hello Hive founder 

 And during the event, the crowd was introduced to several other Columbia alums who were working behind the scenes as NBCUniversal employees.  

Maximizing Networking and Learning Opportunities 

Students like Blake Swanson, who is studying digital marketing at Columbia, expressed excitement about the opportunities available and the importance of attending events like the summit. "As students, it’s our responsibility to take advantage of the opportunities our school presents us. I hope to run my own marketing agency someday, and events like this are invaluable." 

The summit featured a series of workshops and panel discussions. One session, “Using AI as a Tool,” provided practical insights on how to leverage AI technology effectively. “This is definitely something that’s going to be more relevant in the future,” says Mark Baldin, a first-year Photojournalism major. "I'm here to learn about how AI can enhance my work, especially in photography." 

The closing session, “AI’s Impact on Journalism,” highlighted real-world applications of AI, including its role in a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative series. Participants learned about the ethical considerations surrounding AI use in newsrooms. "AI is here. It’s inextricably connected to writing, communications, and media," Hawkins says. "Students need to understand its importance and ethical implications across various contexts." 

As the event wrapped up, attendees left with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. “I hope they felt encouraged and empowered,” Hawkins says. “The NBCU Academy team is genuinely rooting for our students and working hard to help them establish their careers.” 

The AI Generation Summit helped illuminate a path forward for students and alums interested in media and developing industry connections, highlighting Columbia’s commitment to preparing them for a rapidly evolving workforce. 

Learn about Columbia's industry partnerships..

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