Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies joins the Open Forum for AI (OFAI), led by Carnegie Mellon University

June 25th, 2026

Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies has partnered with the Open Forum for AI (OFAI), an international initiative designed to support responsible and human-centered artificial intelligence (AI). Launched at Carnegie Mellon University in 2024, OFAI convenes academic institutions and nonprofit organizations to foster collaboration, transparency, and inclusion in the development of AI systems.

As a new partner institution, Purdue Libraries will join four of OFAI’s Working Groups, which bring together diverse expertise and perspectives to represent a broad range of global stakeholders involved in open AI infrastructure. These working groups provide opportunities for members to share expertise, develop recommendations, and contribute to discussions that help shape open, transparent, and responsible AI infrastructure.

Representing Purdue Libraries include:

• Dr. Wei Zakharov, associate professor, serving on the Data Working Group
• Dr. Innocensia Owour, clinical assistant professor and GIS specialist, serving on the Talent & Workforce Working Group
• Dr. Gang Shao, associate professor, serving on the Exploratory Technical Working Group
• Dr. Reid Boehm, research data system manager, serving on the Research Working Group

Participation in OFAI will connect Purdue Libraries with an international network of institutions working to advance open, responsible, and human-centered AI. The partnership will provide opportunities to exchange emerging practices, learn from peer institutions, and apply insights from global discussions on AI infrastructure, governance, and workforce development to Purdue’s own research and service priorities.

Through its participation, Purdue Libraries will contribute its expertise in data stewardship, information governance, digital scholarship, and research infrastructure. The partnership aligns with the Libraries’ longstanding commitment to supporting open knowledge, responsible data practices, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while extending that commitment into the AI era through initiatives focused on AI-ready data, model stewardship, and emerging research infrastructures.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies to OFAI,” said Sayeed Choudhury, executive director of OFAI and associate dean for digital infrastructure at Carnegie Mellon University Libraries. “Libraries have a critical role to play in shaping the future of AI through their expertise in knowledge stewardship, data governance, and public access to information. Purdue’s leadership across four OFAI working groups will strengthen our collective efforts to build a more open, inclusive, and responsible AI ecosystem.”

About the Open Forum for AI (OFAI)

Led by Carnegie Mellon University, the Open Forum for AI is an international initiative designed to support responsible and human-centered artificial intelligence. By fostering collaboration across academia, civil society, government, and industry, OFAI seeks to build a more open, inclusive, and accountable AI ecosystem.

About Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies

Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies advances Purdue University’s mission of learning, discovery, and engagement by connecting people, information, and technology. Through innovative library services, expert research support, and academic programs, it empowers students, faculty, and researchers to create, access, and share knowledge that drives innovation and societal impact.