AI, Ethics and Technology

AI (artificial intelligence) is everywhere. 77% of our devices use some form of AI!  Indeed, for better or worse, we are in an AI revolution where AI is transforming how we think, how we interact with each other and the world around us, and how we do our jobs. 

But AI is not without its detractors. People worry about its environmental impact, they are concerned about privacy and copyright. Individuals worry that jobs will be lost and that creativity and critical thinking will get pushed aside. 

This precollege program offers high school students a chance to engage with AI technologies, as well as think about how, why, when, and if we should use them. Through sessions with leading cybersecurity experts, renowned data scientists, marketing experts, and AI communication specialists, students will have a chance to develop their critical AI literacy and be versed in AI risk assessment.

Registration will open in early January 2026. Sign up for our newsletter below to receive program updates.

June 21–26, 2026

Students entering 10th, 11th or 12th grade in Fall 2026

$1900

Cost includes: participation in (and transportation for) all sessions, activities, labs, program supplies, field trips, entrance fees, use of college recreational facilities, meals, lodging and snacks.

Check-in: Sunday, 2:30 p.m.

Check-out: Friday, 2:30 p.m.

Required forms

Parent/Guardian Waiver
Medical and Travel Form

Eckerd College launches new minor in AI studies

  • Three students seated next to each and looking intensely at computer screens
  • Three students seated side by side in front of colorful Mac computers and monitors by a big window overlooking a natural landscape
  • Student and professor smiling while looking at video editing software on a computer screen

Faculty

Alexis Ramsey-Tobienne, Academic Director
Assistant Dean for AI and Learning Integrity

Julia Hildebrand
Associate Professor of Communication

Michael Hilton
Associate Professor of Computer Science

Virginie Kharé
Associate Professor of International Business

Bjoern Muetzel
Associate Professor of Mathematics

Room and Board

Facilities

Few colleges have a more attractive setting than Eckerd College. Our 188-acre waterfront campus provides a magnificent atmosphere and safe environment. Eckerd College is located in St. Petersburg, just off I-275, exit 17.

Directions & Map

Counselors

Residential counselors work with students in the late afternoons, evenings and overnight. Staff consists of well-trained Eckerd College students and recent graduates eager to share their enthusiasm for learning.

Housing

Students will live in air-conditioned Eckerd College student residence halls in double-occupancy rooms, reserved exclusively for participants in this program. At least one Counselor will reside in a single room alongside participants on each floor of each single-sex residence hall.

Meals

Student participants will eat in the main cafeteria which can accommodate allergies, lactose and gluten-free diets. We also have kosher, vegetarian and vegan options available to students. If you have particular needs, please be sure to note them on the General and Medical Information form.

Refund Policy

Withdrawal DateRefund
60 days before start date100%
30 days before start date50%
20 days before start date20%
<20 days before start date0%

Processing fee of $25 is non-refundable.

No refund will be issued for the following:

  • If a participant fails to show up for the program.
  • If a participant is dismissed from the program by the College.

Participants who cancel their registration and are eligible for a refund should contact precollege@eckerd.edu or 727.864.8422.

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