UNC Data and Information Schools Merge, Forming New AI Hub

UNC Merges Data and Information Schools to Create AI Hub

The University of North Carolina (UNC) is consolidating its data and information expertise by merging two of its schools to form a new School of AI. This move aims to create a powerhouse for artificial intelligence research and education, signaling a significant shift in the university's approach to the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The merger will combine the UNC School of Data Science and Society (SDSS) and the School of Information and Library Science (SILS). The new entity, tentatively named the "School of AI," is expected to amplify research impact and foster collaboration among faculty, staff, and students.

Details of the Merger

The consolidation was announced to faculty and staff on Wednesday, with a broader public announcement following on Thursday. A formal timeline for the merger is still in development, but changes are not expected to take effect before the end of the 2025-26 academic year. University leadership has emphasized that this merger will enhance the university's capacity for AI research and education.

"This merger is a strategic step to position UNC at the forefront of AI innovation," said Stanley Ahalt, current dean of SDSS, who will lead the new school. "By combining our strengths in data science and information science, we can drive significant advancements in AI technology and its applications."

Leadership and Administrative Changes

Stanley Ahalt, the current dean of SDSS, will head the new School of AI. Jeffrey Bardzell, the current dean of SILS, will take on the role of Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and Vice Provost for AI. Neither dean has commented publicly on the changes, but their new roles are expected to shape the future direction of the school.

The merger has raised concerns among faculty, particularly at SILS. An anonymous faculty member expressed worry that the new school's administrative structure might mirror that of SDSS, potentially sidelining long-standing SILS programs. There is also concern that administrative positions could be reopened, disadvantaging current SILS staff.

Program Continuity and Student Reactions

The university has assured that current academic programs will continue, supporting growth in both enrollment and impact. SILS offers an undergraduate major in Information Science and multiple graduate programs, while SDSS, launched in 2022, offers a B.S. in Data Science and a minor in Risk Management.

Students have expressed frustration over feeling excluded from initial discussions about the merger. One student described faculty and staff as "extremely concerned about a 'hostile takeover' due to the resource disparity between SDSS and SILS." After the announcement, some students were reportedly asked to leave a meeting, sparking anger and further concern among the student body.

The Information and Library Science Student Association (ILSSA) plans to hold an emergency general student body meeting to discuss the merger and its implications.

Future Impact and Faculty Concerns

An anonymous faculty member criticized the lack of transparency and the speed of the decision, questioning the value of degrees from what they called an "ill-conceived 'School of AI.'" Despite these concerns, the university plans to form a task force and advisory committee to oversee the school's implementation.

Faculty, staff, and students will have opportunities to participate in shaping the new school. A Teams message about a meeting to discuss the change was deleted and resent after the official announcement, indicating ongoing communication challenges.

The merger reflects UNC's commitment to advancing AI research and education, though it faces significant hurdles in integrating two distinct academic cultures and addressing the concerns of its community.