The Smith School’s new AI certificate program has drawn over 20,000 global enrollees since May. Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller visited July 1 to highlight its role in Maryland’s AI-driven workforce development.

Smith’s free, online certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Career Empowerment has attracted over 17,000 registrants. Created for federal workers but open to all, the program features 10 self-paced modules taught by leading faculty on AI, strategy, ethics and careers.

Smith School and Merrill College faculty joined journalists to explore innovative business models, AI tools and cross-disciplinary solutions to help local news organizations adapt to declining revenue, shrinking readership and the disruptive impact of digital platforms.

The Smith School hosted UMD’s first university-wide AI case competition, challenging students to use artificial intelligence to tackle food insecurity. Partnering with Capital Area Food Bank, the event drew 100+ students who developed AI prototypes to address real-world issues.

Experts from business, government, and nonprofits shared insights on AI’s challenges, opportunities, and governance at the Smith School’s 2nd Annual AI Symposium, highlighting innovation in healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and legal compliance.

Professors Siva Viswanathan, Balaji Padmanabhan, and PhD student Yizhi Liu at UMD’s Smith School developed a patent-pending deepfake method to detect and mitigate bias in decision-making. Their study shows how AI-generated images can improve fairness in hiring, healthcare, and criminal justice.

Registration is open for the five-day “Business of Life Sciences and Healthcare for Leaders” (B-LSHC) program, June 23-27, 2025, at the Smith School. Designed for mid/advanced-career professionals, it features expert-led sessions, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

The Fact-Based Discourse Initiative (FBDI), led by Rajshree Agarwal and Rellie Derfler-Rozin, fosters critical thinking and open dialogue on business challenges. Events explored trade, polarization, taxation, and social media's influence, promoting intellectual curiosity and respectful discourse at Smith.

Professors Balaji Padmanabhan and Tejwansh (Tej) Singh Anand led the Smith School’s AI in Business Case Competition, where 120+ students tackled real-world problems using AI. Multidisciplinary teams developed innovative, ethical solutions for industry clients, showcasing critical skills and creativity.

The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland is pioneering AI education to meet rising industry demand. The school's new AI center and specialized programs prepare students to address business challenges with AI, ensuring graduates' market relevance.