The Conference on Civic Engagement, launched in 2016, is a school-wide learning experience that explores the capacity of individuals to work within complex political systems to impact positive change. During this year’s conference, students in Grades 8-12 explored ethical citizenship through the lens of AI: Just because we can, should we? 

Presented by Spence's student-led Equity Council, five panelists kicked off the day with a Q&A with students. The panel was composed of thought leaders working in an array of AI-related fields, including digital wellbeing, ethics, inclusion, and music technology. 

Kicking off the conference with opening remarks, Head of School Felicia Wilks laid the foundation for a day of considering what can and cannot be achieved by artificial intelligence: “Our best asset as humans, our most distinguishing characteristic, is our ability to think, to discern, to question, to make informed judgements, to find creative solutions, to comp up with novel ideas, to lead with empathy and—most importantly—to react to the people or situations right in front of us in real time.”

29 unique afternoon workshops followed the panel Q&A, and were moderated and led by Upper School and Grade 8 students, faculty, and staff. Workshop topics included: How Can A.I. Facilitate Human Connection?; Who Is Liable? Legal Responsibility in Biased Medical AI Systems; and AI in STEM: Alphafold and Its Ethics.