Good afternoon, Tartans! It's Monday, July 28, 2025, and you're tuned into the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Let's dive into the recent events and updates from Carnegie Mellon University.
On July 15, CMU hosted the inaugural Energy and Innovation Summit, convened by U.S. Senator David McCormick. The event brought together leaders from government, industry, and academia to discuss the future of energy technology and artificial intelligence. Notably, President Donald Trump attended, highlighting over $90 billion in planned investments aimed at expanding data centers and associated infrastructure in Pennsylvania. These developments are expected to create tens of thousands of jobs and position the state as a hub for AI and energy innovation.
The summit's high-profile attendance sparked significant protests from students, faculty, and local residents. Demonstrators expressed concerns over the university's decision to host President Trump, citing his administration's policies on research funding, international student visas, and diversity programs. Environmental issues were also raised, particularly regarding the ecological impact of expanding data centers, including increased fracking and water usage. Tensions escalated during a protest near the intersection of Forbes and Craig, where law enforcement in riot gear confronted demonstrators, leading to the use of pepper spray.
In response to these events, the Undergraduate Student Senate and Graduate Student Assembly issued a joint statement outlining concerns about censorship, inconsistent enforcement, and a lack of transparency in the university’s approach to expressive traditions. A petition calling for President Farnam Jahanian’s resignation has begun circulating, citing the administration's handling of the protests and related issues.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual AI Day on July 24. This year's theme, "AI With Purpose," focuses on how artificial intelligence can transform everyday tasks and enhance productivity across various fields. The event will feature tailored sessions for all skill levels and a keynote address by Dr. Elizabeth Reilley, Executive Director of AI Acceleration at Arizona State University.
In a significant move to enhance student affordability, CMU has announced the launch of the CMU Pathway Program, set to begin in the 2025-26 academic year. Under this initiative, all new and returning undergraduate students at the Pittsburgh campus whose families earn less than $75,000 annually will be able to attend CMU tuition-free. Additionally, those whose families earn less than $100,000 annually will be able to attend without borrowing any federal student loans. This program underscores the university's commitment to expanding access and opportunity for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
CMU has also launched a partnership with Schoolhouse.world, an educational nonprofit founded by Sal Khan of Khan Academy. This collaboration aims to broaden access to CMU and provide new opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience as tutors on the Schoolhouse platform. The partnership was announced during Sal Khan's visit to CMU as the 127th Commencement keynote speaker.
Before we wrap up, here's a quick look at today's weather in Pittsburgh. Expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures reaching a high of 94°F (34°C) by mid-afternoon. Stay hydrated and take necessary precautions if you're spending time outdoors.
That's all for today's episode. Stay informed, stay engaged, and as always, stay Tartan strong.