Angela Wilkinsexecutive director of the Ken Kennedy Institute at Rice University, is one of four members appointed to Texas Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory Council by Governor Greg Abbott. Created by House Bill 2060 and sponsored by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione and Sen. Tan Parker, the council studies and monitors AI systems developed, employed or purchased by state agencies.
“During this critical phase of technological evolution, it is essential to establish clear guidelines for artificial intelligence,” Wilkins said. “As innovation meets responsibility, the policies we adopt will significantly influence the impact of AI on our society. It is imperative that we thoughtfully implement this technology to not only drive business and technology advancements in Texas, but also to maintain a strong commitment to fairness, accountability and transparency.
Wilkins adds: “This is a defining moment in technological progress. I am deeply honored and excited to engage in this process that will shape the AI landscape in Texas. My involvement reflects my commitment to ensuring that AI serves the common good and improves our communities.
To support the state’s efforts to strengthen Texas’ role as a leading destination for technological innovation, Wilkins, along with fellow nominees John Bash, Mark Stone and Dean Teffer, will assess the need for a code of State Ethics for AI, will examine automated decision systems, assess the risks and benefits of expanded AI implementation, and inform administrative actions state agencies can take in this regard. which concerns the development of AI.
“Rice University and the Ken Kennedy Institute are at the heart of this mission,” Wilkins said. “Our expertise in innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration positions us to shape policy and advance ethical practices in AI. We are committed to navigating the complexities of AI, maximizing its potential to address global challenges while protecting the interests of stakeholders.
Wilkins’ appointment follows Rice becoming one of the nation’s leading AI players as part of a Ministry of Commerce initiative to support the development and deployment of reliable and safe AI.
With expertise spanning AI, healthcare, and industry, Wilkins is a leading authority on computer science. In addition to her leadership role at Rice’s Ken Kennedy Institute, she serves on the board of directors of the Alliance for AI in Healthcare and contributes to the Greater Houston Partnership’s Life Sciences Advisory Committee. Wilkins shares his experience teaching courses such as “AI in Business” at Rice’s business school and developing specialized programs with the Executive Education Program. She received a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Northern Colorado and a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Lehigh University. Wilkins holds four patents, has participated in several federally funded projects, and has been published widely. She is the founder of an AI company and advises several companies on AI applications.
The Ken Kennedy Institute is an interdisciplinary group working collaboratively on groundbreaking research in artificial intelligence, data, and computing to solve critical global challenges. The institute enables new conversations that drive convergent research, impact the development of new technologies, and advance training and education. The Ken Kennedy Institute is the virtual home to more than 250 renowned faculty and senior research members of Rice University.
