55th Annual World Affairs Institute: The AI Effect
February 25, 2026 @ 8:00AM — 2:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar
Jared L. Cohon University Center @ Carnegie Mellon University: 5032 Forbes Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Get Directions
Join us on February 25 to explore how AI is shaping our world and region.
AI is transforming every field, from health and security to business and public policy. Join experts, students, educators, and community leaders at The World Affairs Institute for a cross-disciplinary exploration of how AI is reshaping our world and economy.
Through expert talks and interactive sessions, we'll examine how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, governance, and global relationships and what this transformation means for Pittsburgh’s future.
Hosted at Carnegie Mellon University, this full-day experience fosters global literacy, critical thinking, and cross-sector learning. Registration includes breakfast, lunch, and access to all sessions, with scholarships available to ensure broad participation.
Who You'll Hear From
Justin Aglio
Associate VP at Penn State Outreach and Executive Director of the Readiness Institute
A national leader in K–12 AI education and innovation, recognized widely for advancing equitable, future-ready learning.
David J. Hickton
Founding director of Pitt Cyber and former U.S. Attorney for Western PA
National leader in cybersecurity, public policy, and global security issues.
Paulina Jaramillo, PhD
Professor of Engineering & Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University
Professor, researchers, and author whose work spans global energy systems, sustainability, and climate mitigation. Expert on energy transitions in both U.S. and Global South contexts.
Delvina Morrow
Founder of Your Mission. Unstoppa(i)ble.™, an AI agency for social impact
Former executive in sports and philanthropy, pioneering people-centered AI that strengthens nonprofit and civic systems.
Who is this for?
The World Affairs Institute is an opportunity for everyone to engage with the issues that are shaping our world. High school students, college students, professionals, educators, and community members are encouraged to attend. We design the Institute to be both inclusive and tailored to your interests and perspective.
Costs & Scholarships
The fee of $75 for each participant covers the cost of all conference sessions, a light breakfast and lunch, and resources.
Cost shouldn't hinder changemakers. Please reach out to the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh at welcome@worldpittsburgh.org to learn about available scholarships.
Tentative Institute Agenda
- 8:00AM: Registration & Light Breakfast
- 9:00AM: Welcome & Morning Plenary
- 10:30AM: Break — Attendees Move Into Tracks
- 10:45AM: Breakout Sessions
- 11:30AM: Lunch
- 12:15PM: Breakout Sessions
- 2:00PM: Closing
Day-Of Information
Parking: The World Affairs Institute will be held at the Carnegie Mellon University's Cohon Student Center located at 5032 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. Click here to find visitor parking information.
Dress Code: We invite you to show up in your favorite conference wear — you decide what that means for you. We want you to feel comfortable and ready to dig into the important work of building a globally minded, globally connected Pittsburgh.
Check In: When you arrive, please check in at the registration table in front of the Rangos Ballroom. There, our team will greet you and point you in the right direction.
Inclement Weather Policy:
Winter weather in Pittsburgh can change rapidly. Given the time and date of this event, we adhere to our Inclement Weather Policy for this ticketed event.
In the event of inclement weather, we may shift to a virtual event with the same date and times and will notify attendees at least 48 hours in advance via their registration email and on social media.
While we will make all efforts to intentionally gather together in person to explore The AI Effect: How AI is Shaping Our World and Region, we are committed to providing a meaningful virtual experience should weather conditions in our region prevent gathering together in person safely.
Please plan ahead so that you are prepared to engage with us on February 25. This includes school groups who may need to plan around school delays or cancellations.
Please note that refunds will not be issued if our Inclement Weather Policy is enacted.
For any questions, you can reach our team at welcome@worldpittsburgh.org.
We are grateful to Rotary International for their partnership on this event.
