American University has received a significant gift from Hamoon Hedayat and Nancy Hedayat, marking the first individual donation dedicated to artificial intelligence research at the institution. The Hedayat Fund will play a crucial role in establishing an interdisciplinary hub for generative AI scholarship, focusing on responsible AI, digital ethics, data privacy, and environmental and biomedical advances. This gift is a major step forward in preparing students for a future shaped by AI and will support advancements in key areas of impact. According to Dean Linda Aldoory, the fund will “immerse students in experiential training” and position the College as a leader in AI education, ethics, and innovation. Hamoon Hedayat, an accomplished sales executive and leader, believes that universities must equip students to harness AI power responsibly, and this fund is a commitment to ensuring that future generations are prepared for this transformation.
The Hedayats’ generous contribution will ensure that the College is at the forefront of interdisciplinary AI research, shaping a future where technology benefits all of humanity. The College’s vision for the AI hub will not only enhance academic and research capabilities but also create meaningful impacts on society by advancing ethical AI tools and systems. This gift reflects the couple’s ongoing dedication to enriching and advancing the experiences of American University students.
