Upcoming Thought Summits on AI and Data Science at Cornell

In 2026, Cornell University is set to host three exciting Thought Summits focusing on artificial intelligence and data science innovations. These multi-day events aim to foster collaboration across various fields, including veterinary medicine, environmental justice, and disaster relief. The summits are an initiative of Cornell’s Center for Data Science for Enterprise and Society (CDSES), in partnership with the Cornell AI Initiative, and are designed to inspire cooperation and secure funding for interdisciplinary research.

Data Science for Resilience and Humanitarian Aid

Taking place from May 11–15, 2026, at Warren Hall 401, this summit will be led by Professor Christopher Barrett. Participants will explore how AI can enhance crisis management in at-risk communities. The event, hosted by Cornell’s CIDER and CDSES, seeks to unite leaders from humanitarian, research, and industry sectors to develop strategies for improving aid and warning systems. Co-investigators include Sumanta Basu and Ying Sun, experts in statistics and geospatial sciences.

Community-Focused AI Summit

From May 18–20, 2026, at the Computing and Information Science Building, Assistant Professor Jenny Goldstein will lead discussions on ethical AI use for environmental justice and labor equity. This summit aims to create a Community-Centered AI Toolkit and resources for promoting community-driven AI. Key contributors include Michael Charles and Chris Csíkszentmihályi from biomedical engineering and information science.

Transforming Data into Veterinary Health Solutions

Scheduled for June 9–11, 2026, under Professor Renata Ivanek’s leadership at the College of Veterinary Medicine, this summit will focus on developing VETNET. This initiative aims to establish benchmarks for AI innovations in veterinary care, with expected outcomes including a whitepaper and cooperative efforts to boost animal health. Co-investigators include Casey Cazer, Parminder Basran, and Jennifer Sun from various departments.

Cornell encourages faculty to submit proposals for future Thought Summits in March 2026. Proposals should include three principal investigators from different departments to encourage interdisciplinary projects.

For more information, visit thoughtsummits.cornell.edu.

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