CMU News: AI Breakthroughs, Tuition-Free Aid, Robotics Innovation & Andrew Carnegie Honored in Pittsburgh

Good morning, Tartans! It's Monday, September 15, 2025, and you're tuned into the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Let's dive into the top stories making waves at Carnegie Mellon University. First up, a significant partnership is set to advance artificial intelligence research and education. BNY Mellon and Carnegie Mellon University have announced a five-year, $10 million agreement to establish the BNY AI Lab. This collaboration aims to develop robust AI applications, particularly in financial services, and will provide a dedicated space on campus for joint research and educational projects. In related news, Pittsburgh recently hosted the AI Horizons event, bringing together CMU leaders, AI innovators, and industry experts. The summit focused on transitioning AI from concept to real-world applications in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. Highlights included discussions on Pittsburgh's role as a burgeoning AI hub and the intersection of art and AI, showcased through the multimedia project "The Endless Mile." On the academic front, CMU's Heinz College has launched a new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Systems Management program. This initiative is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to integrate AI into critical decision-making processes, addressing the growing demand for expertise in this field. In other developments, CMU and the University of Pittsburgh have joined forces in the DARPA Triage Challenge, a three-year, $7 million competition aimed at innovating emergency response robotics. The collaborative team, known as Team Chiron, recently conducted successful tests using robots and drones to navigate simulated disaster scenarios, enhancing response times during critical situations. Shifting to campus life, the CMU Pathway Program is set to begin in the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative ensures that undergraduate students from families earning less than $75,000 annually can attend CMU tuition-free, while those from families earning less than $100,000 can do so without federal student loans. It's a significant step toward making quality education more accessible. In cultural news, the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame is honoring Andrew Carnegie with a star, sparking discussions about his complex legacy. While celebrated for his philanthropy, including the founding of Carnegie Mellon University, some critics point to controversial aspects of his past. The induction ceremony is scheduled for October 20 at the Strip District Terminal. Finally, looking ahead, the inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit is set for July 15 at Carnegie Mellon University. Hosted by Senator Dave McCormick, the summit will feature former President Donald Trump and aims to explore the intersection of AI, energy, and economic development. That's all for today's episode. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, keep striving for excellence.