AI Skills for All Grant
The Center for Teaching and Learning is happy to announce the grant awardees for the
AI Skills for All Grant, an initiative led by Microsoft and the American Association
of Community Colleges (AACC). They are:
Keith Baessler, Professor of Chemistry, Ammerman campus
Trudy Christ, Associate Professor of Interior Design, Eastern campus
Wesley Francillon, Academic Chair; Associate Professor of Engineering, Ammerman campus
Daphne Gordon, Specialist II of Entrepreneurial Assistance Program; Adjunct Associate Professor
of Business, Grant campus
Vera Hu, Professor of Mathematics, Ammerman campus
Jennifer Kenney, Professional Assistant I of Entrepreneurial Assistance Program, Grant campus
Kathryn Kinney, Academic Chair; Professor of English, Grant campus
Fabio Montella, Librarian/Associate Professor of History, Eastern campus
Stephanie Taboada, Assistant Professor of Engineering, Ammerman campus
Joshua Wolfson, Associate Professor of Physical Education, Grant campus
The initiative supports a community of practice of 30 AACC member institutions that
will collaborate through December 2026. SUNY Suffolk is the only SUNY institution
invited to participate in this nationwide cohort of community colleges. Support for
all participants includes technical assistance and documentation of successful strategies
and opportunities related to AI skilling, college and student AI policies, and other
related topics.
Through this grant, the goal is to expand responsible, ethical use of artificial intelligence
in curriculum, teaching, and work functions throughout the college.
The awardees agree to:
- Attend specialized AI training facilitated by Microsoft and additional partners with
the intention of engaging as many educators as possible to inform the widest network
for AI adoption into teaching and training programs.
- Register for upcoming training, such as GenAI and Microsoft Copilot Training for Community
College Faculty and Staff, at the website for Microsoft events. Training commitment
is ongoing through Dec. 31, 2026.
- Present their results at Professional Development Day or through a stand-alone workshop
hosted by the CTL.
