Florida State University’s Information Technology Services (ITS) recently brought the campus community together for a half-day conference dedicated to shaping the future of technology and innovation at the university.
The RISE Together Showcase — an acronym for research & instruction, innovation & modernization, security & compliance, and engagement & student success — featured three session blocks with 15 presentations from faculty, staff and student interns. Attendees had the chance to learn about technological advancements at FSU’s campus. The event also included a poster session where ITS student interns displayed their research.
“It was inspiring to see so many members of the FSU community come together to engage with the innovations transforming our campus,” said Jonathan Fozard, FSU associate vice president and chief information officer. “We’re not just experimenting with emerging technologies; we’re leading national conversations and delivering real results. The energy and collaboration from this conference make me even more excited about what’s ahead at FSU.”
In a presentation titled “Building Intelligent Systems: A Deep Dive into Agentic AI Workflows,” Enterprise Resource Planning Analyst Sathish Sundaramoorthy discussed how agentic artificial intelligence (AI) is enhancing efficiency across various disciplines. Agentic AI refers to artificial intelligence systems designed to perform tasks autonomously, making decisions and taking actions without human intervention. These systems leverage machine learning, data analytics and predictive algorithms to optimize workflows and improve productivity.
Sundaramoorthy highlighted the differences between large language AI models and reasoning AI models, emphasizing the ongoing importance of human involvement to provide context and address the limitations within AI systems.
During the second presentation block, Derek Kooi, emerging technology developer for ITS, along with interns Zachary Greif and Jason Hamilton, presented “Microsoft Mesh and Immersive Media.” Attendees explored Microsoft Mesh, a platform that enables users to connect in immersive 3D environments. Microsoft Mesh enhances educational and workplace experiences by allowing participants to interact in virtual realities, fostering a sense of presence and collaboration as if they were physically together.
“The RISE Together Showcase is a fantastic opportunity to get insight on all the innovative work we’re doing with partners and colleagues across campus,” Kooi said. “It’s inspiring to see all the amazing projects and the different disciplines working together to push FSU to new heights. My favorite part is getting to see our ITS interns full of excitement showing off their hard work from the semester with posters, videos and live demonstrations.”
During the final session block, Instructional Design faculty member John L. Crow presented “Integrating AI in Online Humanities Courses: Challenges and Future Directions.” He discussed how artificial intelligence is transforming online education, particularly in humanities courses. The presentation covered the use of AI for course design, content creation, grading and outcome analysis at Florida State University and other institutions. It also highlighted the implementation of an AI-driven virtual assistant to support student learning. Attendees gained insights into what strategies were successful, which ones were not, and how these experiences can shape future AI-enhanced teaching methods.
For more information or full presentation details, visit its.fsu.edu.
