The National Science Foundation (NSF) just announced a large strategic effort to advance the field of artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States, and I’m proud that Georgia Tech was named one of its key leaders. Our decades of investment and world-class work across the Institute were recognized when we received two awards totaling $40 million to establish new NSF AI Research Institutes.

As we establish ourselves among the most innovative regions in the world, Atlanta has an opportunity to stand out also as an example of inclusive innovation, a place where men and women of all backgrounds can find a welcoming environment where they can build exciting new technologies and businesses that create economic opportunities for others.

A couple of months ago, we unveiled a beautiful, mind-bending sculpture on our campus: the last project by revered architect, designer, and proud Tech alumnus John Portman. Known as Koan, this striking 40-foot piece now stands near the northeast corner of Tech Green, sending us a message only art can.

What a year this has been for Georgia Tech athletics! During the year of Covid-19 and endless health protocols and complications — a year when we most needed some bright light, something exciting to cheer for — our teams showed up, did the work, represented us beautifully, and brought home some amazing wins!

Our commitment to expanding access to groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in labs and high-tech companies — most notably women and people of color — is not only a social and moral issue but a strategic one. If we want to advance technology that serves all markets and works for everyone, we have to open the doors of science and technology to individuals of all backgrounds.