The University of Hartford Humanities Center is happy to announce four faculty fellows for 2025–26. All will receive a stipend to support their research and will speak in the Spring 2026 lecture series on “AI in Action: The Future of Humans,” co-organized by Amy Weiss, Assistant Professor of Judaic Studies and History.
- Lillian Kamal, Associate Professor of Economics, will present on “Connecting with Consumers: The Future of AI in Marketing.” Here, she will explore the present realities and future potential of AI in marketing while addressing issues such as the ways in which AI has influenced how business marketing operates and connects with consumers; the roles humans have in AI marketing communication; and how we can harness AI to build creative, inclusive and responsible marketing for the consumers of the future.
- Dakota Nanton, Assistant Professor of Cinema, will present on “Artificial Imagination: Filmmaking in the Age of AI.” In a discussion of how AI is both challenging and enhancing the future of filmmaking, Professor Nanton will examine the technological capabilities of AI, the creative opportunities it offers, and the ethical dilemmas it raises. Drawing on his own professional training and research in AI filmmaking, the lecture will aim to demystify current AI tools and foster critical conversation around their implications for media creation, cultural representation, and artistic ownership.
- Kevin Ramsey, Assistant Professor of Theatre, will present on “The Intersection of AI and the Arts: Innovation, Creativity and Ethical Considerations.” Here, he will explore how AI is currently being used in the performing and visual arts (AI-assisted performances and generated scripts as well as machine-learning-driven visual design); discuss ethical concerns surrounding authorship, originality, and the implications of AI replacing human artists; and analyze AI’s impact on underrepresented voices and diverse perspectives in the arts.
- Brian Wells, Associate Professor of Physics, will present on “Beyond Human Design: AI-Driven Innovation in Metamaterials and Space Communication Systems.” In this talk, Professor Wells will explore how AI is transforming the design processes and performance outcomes of antenna systems and metamaterials used in deep-space communication and exploration technologies. In addition, he will examine broader ethical implications of AI in scientific research regarding authorship, the “flattening” of human expertise, and the evolving role of scientists.
The Humanities Center aims to provide greater visibility for the humanities at the University of Hartford and to furnish venues for interdisciplinary exchanges across the humanities and the arts, sciences, technology, media, music, psychology, film, philosophy, history, and literature. For more information, contact Nicholas Ealy, director (ealy@hartford.edu), or visit our webpage.