Approaching AI Summit: Educate, Engage, Empower

The 2025 Approaching AI Summit is a pivotal event designed to inspire community discussions about the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into our lives. The Summit brings together thought leaders and community participants to examine the far-reaching implications of AI in this transformative era.

Distinct from a technology conference, this info-packed, in-person event examines AI’s broader sociological effects while exploring and evaluating its future impacts. In addition to demonstrating the advancements in AI, the presenters examine the mind-blowing implications that the advent of AI brings to us all.

AI is Already Here: Just 150 years ago, the telegraph exemplified ultramodern communications technology. Today, nearly 17 billion mobile devices connect the globe. The launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT was just two years ago, and over the last several years, AI has evolved at an extraordinary pace, surpassing many expert predictions.

The rapid development of AI technologies brings transformative opportunities combined with critical challenges. From medical diagnostics and environmental rehabilitation to deepfakes and propaganda campaigns, AI is rapidly reshaping the landscape of human experience. Understanding its breadth and navigating its impacts are emerging essential skills for individuals, organizations, and communities alike.

Five Expert Panels Examining AI’s Impacts:

• Creating with AI in Industry: How AI has unleashed transformative creativity in commerce, education, and institutions.
• Creating with AI in Culture: How AI in art and media extends creative potential and pushes the boundaries of art.
• Learning with AI: How AI enhances education and training through adaptive learning technologies and augmented reality.
• Working with AI: How AI transforms workplace roles, economics, fair competition, efficiency, and labor replacement.
• Living with AI: How AI impacts real lives and requires honest discussions on ethics and safety. Includes audience participation.
  
  

An Event Designed to Educate, Engage, and Empower Communities

20 Diverse Panelists: Learn from and engage with distinguished community leaders, policymakers, and innovative thinkers:

• Dr. Rick Bailey: President, Southern Oregon University
• Micah Blacklight: Digital Artist
• Nisha Burton: Filmmaker
• Adam M. Curry: Inventor, Entrepreneur, BLUON Technology
• Dr. Daniel DeFreez: Computer Science Prof, SOU
• Dr. Kim Freeze: Innovator Hub, HIIVE SOU
• Ron Gandiza: AI Educator and Marketing Consultant
• Sen. Jeff Golden: Oregon State Senator, District 3
• Paul Hynek, MBA: Entrepreneur, Professor, Futurist
• Ian Ingram: AI Scholar and Educator
• Rep. Pam Marsh: Oregon State Representative, District 5
• Aaron Moffatt: Filmmaker, Technology Educator
• Thor Muller: AI Educator, Venture Capitalist
• Cynthia Salbato: Storyteller, Community Builder
• Heather Stafford: Business Developer, Rogue Workforce
• Marta Tarantsey: Business Developer, Business Oregon
• Teighe Thorsen: Media Innovator and AI Ethics Advocate
• Randy Weber, Ed.D: President, Rogue Community College

MORE PANELISTS TBA

READ PRESENTER BIOS • VIEW SCHEDULE

Approaching AI- Getting Ahead of the Fast-Coming Changes

• Survey the Landscape: Discover the scope of AI’s impact on virtually every area of life and society.
• Plot a Course: Strategize how to harness AI’s beneficial potential.
• Spot the Pitfalls: Learn to vigilantly identify and mitigate the personal and societal risks with proactive safety protocols.
• Engage with Experts: Community and industry leaders exploring the incredible possibilities and the concerning challenges.
• Keep Pace: Develop the acuity to distinguish and evaluate AI-generated content.
• Get Actionable Insights: Learn to navigate an increasingly AI-driven world confidently.
• Continue the Journey: Schedule & Locations TBA Take a deeper dive into AI topics in a week of AI learning events and workshops following the Summit. 
  
  

Explore the Possibilities, the Challenges, and the Future of Human-AI Coexistence

Produced by Architects of the New Paradigm Conference Series & RVML Resource Center
EMAIL US for More Info • Sponsor & Exhibitor APPLICATION