Professor of Communication and Chair of the Department of Communication and Digital Studies Anand Rao
Professor of Communication and Director of the Center for AI and the Liberal Arts Anand Rao was recently spotlighted in wide-ranging AI coverage.
On two Fredericksburg-based podcasts Rao discussed UMW’s leadership in AI education and the evolving role of the liberal arts in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
He joined UMW alumnus Kevin Hughes of Stack Infrastructure on The New Dominion Podcast for an episode titled “AI and the Future of UMW.” The conversation explored the rise of data centers in Virginia, the accelerating impact of generative AI, and why the liberal arts are increasingly essential in shaping ethical, responsible innovation. Listen here.
He was also a guest on Coffee Talk, the monthly podcast of the Fredericksburg Free Press, hosted by Joey LoMonaco. The discussion highlighted the Center for AI and the Liberal Arts, how UMW is preparing students to navigate and shape AI-driven workplaces, and what emerging technologies mean for human creativity, communication, and culture. Listen here.
Other media mentions and events for Rao include:
How to Cultivate AI Literacy in the Classroom (Oxford University Press)
Rao joined Stefan Bauschard, AI education policy consultant and adjunct instructor at UMW, as a featured presenter in a national masterclass hosted by Oxford University Press (OUP) titled “How to Cultivate AI Literacy in the Classroom.” The free, one-hour session brought together educators from across the country who are navigating the growing influence of generative AI on teaching and learning. Rao and Bauschard discussed strategies for helping students critically evaluate AI-generated content, integrate AI constructively into coursework, and maintain academic integrity in an environment where powerful tools are widely available. Listen here.
At Univ. of Mary Washington, an AI-Relevant Curriculum Gives Both Students and Faculty an Upper Hand (AI Data Press)
UMW’s leadership was featured in AI Data Press, a national publication covering innovation in artificial intelligence and workforce development. The article highlights insights from Rao on preparing students for a rapidly changing professional landscape shaped by generative AI. Rather than aiming to make curricula “AI-proof,” Rao advocates for making them “AI-relevant,” emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, communication, collaboration, research and ethical reasoning — skills that help graduates adapt throughout their careers. The piece showcases UMW initiatives, including AI literacy programs, partnerships with local schools and classroom practices that integrate AI responsibly. Rao also notes that understanding AI’s societal implications — such as environmental costs and data bias — is essential for informed decision-making. Read more.