Iona University President Seamus Carey introduced the Gabelli Center for Teaching & Learning, a new initiative made possible through the generosity of Marc Gabelli and Elaine Madonna Gabelli. The center aims to promote institutional innovation, faculty development, and thought leadership in the field of education.

According to Carey, the Gabelli Center's first initiative, AI@Iona, will focus on engaging faculty and students with the capabilities of artificial intelligence. He emphasized the importance of staying nimble and collaborative in approaching AI while maintaining a dedication to the transformative power of teaching and learning.

Marc Gabelli expressed his excitement about collaborating with Iona, highlighting the alignment between their objectives and the goals of the Gabelli Center. Carey thanked the Gabellis and the EMG Madonna Foundation for their vision and support in advancing Catholic education.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Tricia Mulligan, emphasized the Gabelli Center's role in fostering faculty research, technical support, and community engagement to enhance teaching methodologies and support student success. Mulligan also mentioned plans to launch an interdisciplinary AI minor program for students in the upcoming fall semester.

In addition to sponsoring conferences, workshops, and speaker series, the Gabelli Center will provide a physical space in Ryan Library on campus to facilitate face-to-face interactions and collaboration among educators. James Mustich, senior advisor to the president, highlighted the center's focus on providing resources for faculty to engage in meaningful work and learn from each other.

The Gabelli Center for Teaching & Learning represents Iona University's commitment to academic excellence and innovation in Catholic education. With a strong emphasis on faculty development, student engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the center is poised to make a significant impact on the educational landscape.