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A Virtual Conversation with Todd Rundgren
Join us at 2:22pm in the Philosopher’s Cafe for a virtual conversation and Q&A session with Todd Rundgren, Producer, Founder & CEO of GlobalNation™.
GlobalNation™ is the reincarnation of Todd Rundgren’s Creators Community PatroNet, which he launched in 2001 to offer artists like himself a direct revenue stream from supporters, or patrons, within the PatroNet community.
GlobalNation™ is about supporting the creators whose work inspires you, and to become a creator and inspire others.
Learn more: https://globalnation.tv
The conversation will be moderated by Baylee Badawy.
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Innovation in Community Care for the Aging and Disability Community
Mark Raymond, Jr. discusses groundbreaking approaches to support aging populations and individuals with disabilities. Drawing from his work with The Split Second Foundation, he highlights new models in holistic wellness, accessible infrastructure, and community-driven care that enhance quality of life and promote equity. Mark will share practical insights into how innovative programs and partnerships can transform community care, focusing on empowerment, resilience, and the importance of inclusive, person-centered approaches.
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Life Print Afterlife AI
In Life Print Afterlife AI, Alex Ebert explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and legacy, examining how technology can preserve and extend individual memories, thoughts, and values beyond one’s lifetime. Through this concept, Ebert delves into the ethical, philosophical, and emotional dimensions of using AI to capture our “life print”—the unique mark we leave on the world—and how this could shape the idea of an “afterlife” in digital form. In this thought-provoking presentation, Ebert challenges the audience to consider how AI could redefine human legacy and invites a conversation on what it means to be remembered in a world where memories might outlast mortality.
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On Data Dignity, Civic-engagement, and Computer Science Education
A discussion on general themes relating to who derives value from our data and why and the importance of computer science in public education.
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Striker VR Demo Fun
Play laser tag with the latest toys from Striker VR.
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Fireside Chat with the CEO of NOLA AI, Damon Kirin
Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Damon Kirin, CEO of NOLA AI, as he shares his unique journey of building an artificial intelligence company in the heart of New Orleans. Damon will explore the opportunities and challenges of growing a tech startup in the Southeast, from hiring talent to fostering a distinctly New Orleans approach to AI innovation. He’ll discuss NOLA AI’s mission to develop AI tools and applications. Come prepared with your questions about entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and building a company in the Big Easy.
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Fireside Chat – David Kovacic, Senior Director of Intelligent Platforms at Baker Hughes
Join us for an enlightening fireside chat with David, a veteran of enterprise AI implementation, as he pulls back the curtain on the real-world challenges of deploying AI across global business units. Drawing from years of experience at Fortune 500 companies, David shares candid stories and battle-tested insights on navigating the delicate balance between innovation and data security.
Want to avoid the common pitfalls of scaling AI? Learn from someone in the trenches – from securing executive buy-in to managing data governance across borders. Whether you’re just starting your AI journey or looking to scale existing solutions, this conversation will arm you with practical strategies and invaluable lessons from the field.
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Electric Monks Show (AI + Physical Theater Performance & Discussion)Electric Monks Show
In the chaotic aftermath of a massive information breach, Lala is faced with the choice to join the Electric Monks, a cyber-spiritual order that has emerged in a society now radically split between analog adherents and digital disciples. Physical theater meets live AI-driven programming. Followed by a talkback with the creators.
Large language models, digital ragas, deep-learning image systems, and human experts in physical theater create this improvisational series of events that combine algorithmically-defined outcomes with the unpredictable expressions of the Electric Monks, our guides to techno+human harmony.
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Chess Boxing Circus
Performative spoof of the real sport of Chess Boxing that’s raising money for Prescription Joy, The Chess Cave, The 18th Ward, and Just Love.
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Computing and Technology Ethics Through Science Fiction
This talk introduces an innovative approach to teaching ethics in computing and technology by using science fiction stories to explore complex moral questions. From autonomous weapons and AI caregivers to the security risks of online banking, science fiction provides case studies that bring ethical ambiguity to life, making theoretical frameworks practical and engaging. Participants will learn how deontology, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and other major ethical theories can be applied to modern issues in technology, with stories by authors like Ken Liu and Paolo Bacigalupi sparking reflection.
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Aveblen Giving: The Ultimate Philanthropy
Aveblen Giving aims for perfect altruism—giving without any material benefit to oneself. Unlike traditional philanthropy, which can enhance status or provide tangible rewards, Aveblen Giving minimizes self-benefit, focusing on maximizing value for others. This presentation explores the philosophy, challenges, and paradoxes of Aveblen Giving, emphasizing the journey toward infinite value through selfless acts. Attendees will learn why true giving isn’t about earning recognition or social gain but about fostering moral clarity and greater empathy. Ultimately, Aveblen Giving seeks to redefine philanthropy, urging us to “just give” and evolve through the act itself.
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Tales of a chessboxer
Speaking on chess, AI, and chessboxing.
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Kings, Rings, and Algorithms: The History of Chess, Boxing, and AI in New Orleans
This talk explores the histories of chess and boxing in New Orleans—two activities that have grown and evolved here. From burned-down chess clubs to outlawed bare-knuckle boxing matches, we’ll trace how both have shaped and been shaped by the Crescent City. We’ll also look at the history of chess and AI, how AI is changing boxing, and how it all comes together—leading up to a live chess-boxing match outside.
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Radio Resistance: 102.3FM WHIV-LP Amplifies the Call for Human Rights and Social Justice in NOLA
102.3 FM WHIV-LP in New Orleans serves as an essential voice for those who are often unheard, amplifying the perspectives of underrepresented communities through its diverse programming and hosts. Committed to human rights and social justice, 102.3 FM WHIV-LP acts as a change agent by raising awareness about HIV and other infectious diseases while addressing critical social justice issues. The station fosters community engagement and activism, offering a platform for marginalized groups to discuss local concerns that mainstream media often overlook. One of its standout initiatives is the Out and Loud program, which trains LGBTQIA+ teens in broadcasting, empowering them with the skills to create their broadcasts, podcasts, and streaming content. This initiative aims to ensure that no queer youth ever feels alone, providing them with a supportive community. By showcasing alternative perspectives and fostering dialogue on critical social issues, 102.3 FM WHIV-LP supports local artists and musicians and reaffirms its commitment to human rights and social justice, encouraging community support and involvement for a more inclusive media landscape.
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Colorful History (and Future) of Jewish Philanthropy in NOLA
From Edith Stern to Morris Bart, New Orleans has a vibrant history of Jewish Philanthropy. The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans presents a discussion on the colorful history and future of Jewish Philanthropy. Join us!
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Morris Bart on Making Philanthropy Work for Business
Morris Bart is one of the most recognizable names in New Orleans. In this discussion with Blake Bertuccelli-Booth, he will share his approach to philanthropy. Notably, Bart has long supported the Jazz Festival, helping families of gospel choir members access the event for the first time. The conversation will explore Bart’s original interest in giving back, how he’s contributed to the Jazz Fest, and his advice for others in New Orleans looking to make a philanthropic impact. We’ll also dive into how Bart chooses which causes to support and how his giving has evolved over the years.
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Code to Success: How Operation Spark Transformed Our Lives
Join us for an inspiring panel discussion, “Code to Success: How Operation Spark Transformed Our Lives,” where a group of distinguished Operation Spark alumni share their personal journeys from novice coders to professional software engineers. This session dives into the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs experienced along the way, highlighting how the immersive program reshaped their careers and lives.
Panelists will reflect on their time as students, the rigorous training that prepared them for the tech industry, and the opportunities they unlocked upon graduation. Hear firsthand stories of overcoming adversity, embracing new skills, and building a future in tech. This talk is not just about coding; it’s about resilience, transformation, and the power of education to ignite change. Whether you’re considering a career change or seeking inspiration, come discover how these alumni went from students to tech innovators, leveraging their skills to rebuild their lives and communities.
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Web Accessibility and AI: Lessons from Building Equalify
Equalify started integrating LLM-related tools over two years ago. This talk shares experience of integrating tools, and why we’ve moved from open chatbot to discrete LLM-powered services.
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NOLA Artist Incubator: Creating a Network of Makers for a More Equitable & Sustainable New Orleans
Sustainability through the arts: Introducing NOLA Artist Incubator, a local 501(c)3 nonprofit. Our organization created and maintains the Galvez Garden, a community garden and social practice project located in St. Roch, in 2021. The aim of the nonprofit is working with culture bearers and youth to grow gardens, green spaces, and environmentally focused public art that gives back to the community. We believe in the power of art to transform spaces. Discussion to include our unique approaches and initiatives; specifically, we are currently navigating adding new infrastructure at the garden. We are in the implementation stage with plans to build a greenhouse and in the design stage to add a shipping container multipurpose center to the site. Using social media to communicate and solicit feedback from community members, and collaborative art to drive our projects, the organization is excited to be expanding our arts and cultural programming at our site, while continuing to practice sustainable urban agriculture as a model for food sovereignty within New Orleans.
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Technology, Art and Innovation at the Winter Circus in Ghent
Once upon a time, in the city of Ghent, Belgium, there was a permanent circus that captivated audiences for five decades with stunning performances featuring dancers, acrobats, and elephants.
The circus closed its doors in 1944. In 1947, a car dealer transformed the venue into a garage, selling cars until 1978. Afterward, the owner used the space as a depot for vintage vehicles before ultimately selling it to the city.
After years of neglect, the building fell into a state of disrepair until Ghent initiated a renovation project. A consortium of entrepreneurs came together to revitalize the circus, transforming it into a dynamic hub where technology, art, and innovation converge.
The new Winter Circus officially opened on September 6, 2024. Being one of the early investors in the project, Bruno Lowagie will talk about the past, present, and future of the initiative.
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Ruth Messinger, In Conversation
Ruth Messinger is this year’s keynote speaker. With the American Jewish World Service, Ruth has granted over $270 million to promote human rights in the developing world. Ruth is also responsible for large contributions to New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. She is a believer in direct giving and will share her insights with a keynote conversation.
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the beaning of life
my journey through beans
building community
finding purpose
achievements and challenges along the way
what Ive learned about my city and our path forward
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Looking backwards to see the future of AI technology jobs
We’ll review the significant events and the lessons we learned as an industry to theorize how the technology industry will play out over the next ten years. We’ll spend the final portion of the talk debating, questioning, and theorizing. Sneak Preview (A lot of it is good news for people in tech). If you’re wondering how your career will be affected and how you can adjust now, this is the talk for you!
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Mastering AI Autonomy: Unleashing Open-Source Powerhouses for Transformative Business Solutions
Elevate your business with AI Innovation
Elevate your business to the forefront of innovation with cutting-edge AI solutions that don’t break the bank. In this illuminating session, we delve into a curated ensemble of the most impactful open-source tools and frameworks, empowering you to build scalable, autonomous AI applications entirely within your control. Discover how to harness the unparalleled capabilities of platforms like Dify.AI for local model deployment and inference, ensuring data sovereignty and heightened security. Uncover the potential of Open Hands and Devin AI for automated code generation, accelerating your development cycles while reducing costs.
We’ll explore how frameworks like Ollama and LiteLLM revolutionize model serving and AI deployment, offering unmatched efficiency and performance. Through real-world case studies and expert insights, you’ll gain actionable strategies to seamlessly integrate these technologies into your operations—enhancing customer engagement, streamlining product development, or driving data-driven decision-making. Join us to unlock the true power of AI, transforming challenges into opportunities and propelling your business into a future of limitless possibilities.
Highlighted Tools and Concepts
Open Hands – Automated Code Generation
- Description: An avant-garde open-source framework that democratizes code creation, akin to **Devin AI**, enabling rapid development and innovation.
- Impact: Open Hands transcends traditional development barriers, allowing businesses to swiftly translate visionary ideas into tangible applications. Automating code generation from high-level directives empowers teams to innovate without resource constraints.
- Use Case: Ideal for startups aiming to disrupt markets quickly or established enterprises seeking to automate and enhance their development pipelines.
Ollama – Local AI Inference Revolution
- Description: A groundbreaking platform facilitating local AI inference, ensuring computations are executed securely within your infrastructure.
- Impact: Ollama eradicates dependency on external cloud services, delivering lightning-fast response times and fortified data privacy. It empowers businesses to offer real-time AI solutions without compromising security or incurring exorbitant costs.
- Use Case: Perfect for organizations that demand high-performance AI capabilities, such as personalized customer experiences, intelligent automation, and advanced analytics.
LiteLLM – Efficient Model Serving Redefined
- Description: A lightweight, robust framework for efficiently serving **Large Language Models (LLMs)** across diverse environments.
- Impact: LiteLLM ensures your AI models deliver optimal performance and minimal latency. It streamlines deployment across platforms, maximizing reach and impact while minimizing resource expenditure.
- Use Case: Suited for businesses deploying AI models across multiple channels—web, mobile, IoT—seeking consistency and excellence in performance.
Dify.AI – Sovereign AI Frameworks and Inference
- Description: An innovative open-source platform that empowers you to run AI models and perform inference locally, granting unparalleled control over your AI assets.
- Impact: Dify.AI champions data autonomy and security, enabling rapid iteration and customization of AI models. It liberates businesses from the limitations of cloud dependency, fostering innovation in a secure, private environment.
- Use Case: This is essential for industries where data sensitivity is paramount—finance, healthcare, legal—and for any enterprise aiming to integrate AI deeply into its core operations without external vulnerabilities.
Alpaca WebUI & LibreChat – Next-Generation AI Interfaces
- Description: Sophisticated, user-friendly web interfaces that democratize AI interaction, enabling seamless deployment of AI-driven customer and employee engagement tools.
- Impact: These interfaces transform the AI experience, making advanced technologies accessible to all users regardless of technical expertise. They facilitate the creation of intuitive AI applications that enhance user satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Use Case: Ideal for businesses focused on elevating customer support, enriching user interaction, and empowering teams with intelligent tools that drive productivity.
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Leveraging BERT for Real-Time Clinical Note Generation in Emergency Medical Services
This talk with Noah Rahman, Dustin Hughes, and Kaju Sarkar will focus on the integration of BERT models and advanced audio extraction techniques to for clinical note generation in EMS and explore the challenges of audio data capture in the field. By leveraging domain-specific adaptations we can enhance the accuracy of real-time transcriptions amidst the chaotic environment of ambulances. The presentation will address the unique challenges faced in EMS, such as background noise and speaker differentiation, and demonstrate how AI-powered solutions can streamline documentation, reduce cognitive load on paramedics, and improve patient care through precise and timely medical records.
Kaju Sarkar holds a Bachelors in Mathematics from LSU, an Associate in Computer Science from BRCC and a Bachelors in Film Theory from UNO. He has been programming for over twenty years, in various languages such as C++, JavaScript and Java. He trained at LSU FETI as an EMT, hence he is in a unique position for understanding this problem. Since graduating college, he has been deeply interested in applying Machine Learning, specifically Natural Language Processing, to tasks that require automation but resist a rule based approach. His other area of research is mechanistic interpretability. His ultimate goal for Skribh is to build an open-source foundation model for EMS.
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Nailing Descartes to the Wall: The Existential Consequences of Ignoring Animal Rights
The concept of moral rights has been debated for centuries, with each generation identifying society’s blind spots and expanding its moral consideration. For example, Ancient Greek philosophers thought deeply about moral rights yet owned slaves and denied women basic rights—practices now seen as barbaric. This raises the question: Could our society have similar blind spots today? Will future generations condemn us for glaring atrocities we overlook?
Many modern philosophers have identified the treatment of animals as the most likely candidate, and perhaps the most overlooked moral issue of all time. Historically, philosophers like Descartes believed animals don’t feel pain and are thus unworthy of moral consideration. Modern science has decisively disproved this—so what now?
This talk will explore why animal suffering matters, the selfish reasons why humanity should care, and practical solutions to this rapidly growing and absurdly neglected problem.
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AI and the Future of Work
In this talk Dr. Handler will discuss the role AI will play in shaping the future of work through the exploration of a series of dichotomies that create the pressure required to create change. Specific topics of focus will include: The impact of AI on psychological safety in the workplace, the ethics of job applicants’ use of AI in the hiring process, the replacement of jobs by automation, and an overview of how AI will impact core HR functions.
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Co-creating Civic AI: Partnering Academia with Local Communities
Aron presents ongoing work at Tulane’s Center for Community-Engaged AI partnering with local non-profits to build AI tools for transparency and accountability in criminal court and city government. He will first discuss our work with Eye on Surveillance, who have developed a retrieval-augmented generation tool over New Orleans city council transcripts (sawt.us). Tulane’s Center for Community-Engaged AI has collaborated to use automated LLM evaluations and to engage with community users to improve the trustworthiness of the system. Second, Aron will discuss our work with Court Watch NOLA to build AI models for monitoring the equity in criminal court, including methods to estimating causal effects from text data. He will conclude with an overview of future directions in how generative AI can be used for a number of civic applications.
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The Future is Extensible: Leveraging LLMs and WASM for Customizable Software
Software used to be extensible. In the desktop era, we could inject code or patch any software on our machines. We could use this code to bend the software to our will and create new things that the creators couldn’t imagine. This freedom made the whole ecosystem better. We can still see this today in many desktop applications we use daily. For example, users of Chrome can alter the browser to complete change its functionality through its “extension” system, even block ads from Google!
What happened? The web made software *rigid*. You can’t customize applications beyond some blessed “settings” screens. Many applications provide HTTP APIs, but this only allows you to customize functionality on the surface. But what would it look like to make web software extensible again?
This talk will explore the past, present, and future of extensible software. We’ll explore a demo to see what this new breed of applications will look like and we’ll see how LLMs are the key to unlocking this future.
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Holding the Baton in a Never Ending Relay Race of Stewardship
I fear the effects of climate change. I love New Orleans. I plant trees in the swamp.
I see many friends of mine quickly become discouraged after initially becoming inspired to action to address a civic or environmental issue. After the initial spark of rage and determination come fantasies of heroism, imagining a point of finality in which the job is done. Following these fantasies come plans and schemes with that end goal in mind, and after that comes the overwhelming wave of recognition: these problems are larger than just one person, and most of them are continuous.
Older folks walk up to me and confidently point out that “saving the wetlands” is pointless and a waste of time. They are discouraged to the point of apathy and defeatism.
I don’t believe that I am wasting my time when I am planting a tree. I don’t believe it’s pointless to distribute food from our Free Pantry just because these families will be hungry again tomorrow. I do believe it is important to place ourselves within the continuum of human experience, and to walk away from the concept of a finish line.
There is no end to the work of stewardship. There is no end of need or care for one another. Having goals is important, and many are achievable. But in order to combat doom and gloom scenarios we need to reframe what it is we are doing here.
When the organization I currently run was founded I was 7 years old. I am turning 27 while this organization is turning 20. In the 20 years between its founding and my leadership here, thousands of individuals passed through its doors and sustained its mission. Somehow, they passed the baton to me, and I carry it forward now. I think of my job, which can be quite overwhelming, in a few central tasks: 1) don’t burn the building down 2) don’t go to jail and 3) when it’s time, pass the baton forward.
The race doesn’t end when I stop running, or when I rest. The race never ends. If I pass the baton forward, someone will take it and keep going. I just have to do my part.
It is a privileged position to impose pessimism on matters of survival. It is understandable to have these feelings of fear, anger, disappointment, anxiety, defeatism. I didn’t say you had to be happy and smiling when planting a tree in a place threatened by sea level rise, salt water intrusion, pollution, development, in a place that was once so densely forested you couldn’t see the sky or 10 feet in front of you. I am often angry and disappointed when planting trees next to broken marsh and open water in full view of refinery, refinery, refinery dotting the horizon mimicking city skylines. Every tree I plant is a fuck you to what threatens my right to occupy my family’s home in the company of all our ghosts.
And when I’m not feeling vindictive I enjoy the space I occupy, I enjoy sharing stories and information with the hundreds of volunteers who join us in the swampy mud. It’s a joy and a pleasure to care for the environment that holds you.
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Agentic AI Origins, Design Patterns, Importance, and Application
In this talk I will explore Agentic Design Patterns in Generative AI and how they can be used to solve complex problems that are beyond the capabilities of RAG Architecture alone.
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From Policy to Where You Got Your Shoes At
Have you ever strolled through the streets of the French Quarter, when someone playfully asks, “I bet you I can tell you where you got your shoes at?” This ageless tourist challenge often ends with laughter and perhaps the purchase of a refreshing drink. But here’s the twist: the answer isn’t a store or online shopping—it’s on your feet, on the street where you stand surrounded by the amazing culture we call home.
In this episode, we’re examining the intentions of the Build Back Better investment and how it is fueling the opportunity economy right here in New Orleans. Together, we’ll explore the impact of this initiative on our city and how it’s fostering new opportunities for growth, entrepreneurship, and collaboration in our local community.
Tune in and discover how policy is impacting New Orleans and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive economic future!
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Nouveau Né Parish On The Blue Tech Delta; Reimagining the Future of the Louisiana Estuary
As goes the resiliency of our gulf coast communities, so goes the future of Louisiana. I will present on the status and potential of the Blue Economy and Blue Tech development, deployment, and exponential scaling in the Louisiana Estuary (toward realization of a blue tech unicorn). I will contextualize our region within the globe climate crisis; tie together the component roles of Blue technology verticals; describe how the integration of critical sector components can develop a supportive Innovation Ecosystem; and layout an economic development-based roadmap towards the region establishing global leadership in the delivery of community-based climate resilience solution sets and Disaster Risk Reduction initiatives. I will describe solution sets that are applicable, lucrative, and will be in ever-growing demand around the world in the decades to come.
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Intersection of Business and Art
~ The relationships between entrepreneurs and artists
~ Why we need each other
~ Future of Identity: Company actions, investments, and practices paint the picture of your organizations identity in the same way an artist builds their artistic practice.
~ The incredible amount of power that comes out of Art & Business collaboration
~ New technology, how its influencing creatives, and why we should use it
~ Importance of Public art and its ability to both gather information, and convey concepts to its environment.
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What’s Humanities Response to Revolutionary Products of the Past Uncover about the Future of AI
This talk examines how past revolutionary technologies like the atomic bomb, social media, birth control, and video games can inform our understanding and approach to the coming AI revolution. Drawing parallels from these innovations’ impacts – both positive and negative – we’ll explore potential consequences of advanced AI systems.
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Build Your Own Search Engine with DuckDB and Embedding Vectors
In this exciting and hands-on talk, we’ll dive into the world of modern search technology, showing you how to build your very own search engine using DuckDB and embedding vectors. This session is perfect for developers, data scientists, and anyone interested in the intersection of databases and machine learning.
We’ll start by exploring the power of vector search and its applications in semantic search, recommendation systems, and more. You’ll learn why DuckDB, an in-process analytical database, is an excellent choice for this task, offering speed, simplicity, and seamless integration with Python.
The heart of our search engine lies in embedding vectors, and we’ll demystify these powerful tools, showing how they capture semantic meaning and transform text into a format that machines can understand and compare.
Through live coding and practical examples, we’ll walk through the entire process of building a search engine.
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place4pals, a non-profit & open-source social media platform
We want to fill the gap and create a non-profit social media alternative where privacy is paramount and users are no longer considered the product. Our incorporation as a non-profit entity helps ensure that our goals are aligned with our users.
Today’s social media platforms have become plagued with advertisements that obscure community-generated content. Furthermore, privacy concerns have risen to the surface, with more users wishing not to be tracked or have their personal data sold. We want to fill the gap and create a non-profit social media alternative where privacy is paramount and users are no longer considered the product. Our incorporation as a non-profit entity helps ensure that our goals are aligned with our users. We believe that the current monetization practices used in the for-profit social media industry have ultimately harmed users and weakened their social media experience. The algorithms that operate modern social feeds push down the voices of the community and artificially prop up promoted content. By creating a non-profit alternative, users can find respite in a platform that is not hell-bent on aggregating and selling their data.
Privacy practices are also a rising concern, with end-to-end-encryption technologies becoming more widely adopted by many SaaS providers. We wish to incorporate end to end encryption where possible, including group chats and information kept solely by the individual (saved posts, personal notes, etc). The open-source nature of our project would also provide transparency to our security and privacy practices, a feature which is absent in many proprietary codebases from the social media giants.
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Help us write the next chapter of New Orleans’ story—one book at a time.
Help us Write the Next Chapter of New Orleans’ Story—One Book at a Time is more than just a call to action; it’s an invitation to invest in the future of our city by empowering its most valuable resource—our people. As we stand at a critical point in history, with the challenges of inequality, educational barriers, and cultural erosion looming large, Baldwin & Co. and its nonprofit arm are determined to preserve and uplift the spirit of New Orleans through literacy, education, and community engagement.
Through our foundation’s initiatives—financial literacy workshops, language tutoring, and book events that amplify underrepresented voices—we are reshaping the narrative for generations to come. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to provide the tools, resources, and opportunities for young minds and lifelong learners to flourish. Every book we provide, every child we teach, every community program we launch helps write a new chapter in New Orleans’ story—one that speaks of resilience, innovation, and hope.
Together, we can build a city where education is the great equalizer, where every person has access to the knowledge that can transform their lives. By contributing to our mission, you’re not just making a donation; you’re helping write the future of New Orleans, page by page. Let’s work together to create a legacy that celebrates the vibrant, diverse, and storied culture of this great city—one book at a time.
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Tulane Student AI Use
Results from a survey of 600+ Tulane students on the topic of AI, their knowledge about it, and use of it. Also experiences from teaching AI use to Tulane students, faculty, and staff.
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How to Bloom in the Live Entertainment Industry
With Bloom, attendees can easily explore new opportunities within the live entertainment industry. Our platform allows users to browse a diverse range of venues, events, and gigs that match their specific preferences and availability. By creating a personalized profile, entertainers can showcase their skills and talents, making it easier for venues and event organizers to discover them.
Users can filter opportunities based on location, event type, and performance requirements, ensuring they find the perfect fit for their expertise. With real-time availability and booking options, entertainers can seize opportunities anytime, anywhere, and connect with the right venues and events to grow their presence in the industry. Additionally, our platform provides tools for managing logistics, payments, and promotions, making it a comprehensive solution for performers looking to maximize their opportunities.
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Unveiling the New Orleans Cinematic Universe
New Orleans is a city teeming with rich history, vibrant mythology, and boundless creativity. The New Orleans Cinematic Universe (NOLACU) envisions transforming this cultural wealth into a decentralized entertainment complex that engages artists and storytellers from all corners of the city. This talk will articulate a grand vision for NOLACU, demonstrating how we can fully exploit the unique elements of our city to create a dynamic, immersive entertainment experience that attracts and captivates audiences worldwide, leveraging cutting-edge generative AI art tools and live-action role-playing (LARPing) to create new, relevant intellectual property (IP). Introduction: New Orleans is not just a city; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of stories, legends, and artistic expression. From the mystique of the French Quarter to the rhythmic pulse of jazz in the streets, New Orleans offers an unparalleled cultural landscape ripe for exploration. The New Orleans Cinematic Universe (NOLACU) aims to harness this cultural fabric to create an expansive, decentralized entertainment complex that leverages the city’s history, mythology, and creative talent. Vision: The NOLACU seeks to expand its scope to include artists and storytellers from across the city, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity can flourish. This vision involves integrating various forms of media—film, music, theater, digital art,
interactive experiences, and LARPing—into a cohesive narrative that reflects the essence of New Orleans. By doing so, we aim to create a decentralized entertainment complex that is both immersive and inclusive, offering something for everyone, from locals to tourists. Components of the Vision:
1. Historical and Mythological Integration: Historical Narratives: We will bring to life the rich history of New Orleans through meticulously researched and engaging stories. This includes key historical events, significant figures, and the unique cultural evolution of the city. Mythological Elements: By weaving local myths and legends into our narratives, we can create a magical realism that enhances the immersive experience. Voodoo lore, pirate tales, and ghost stories will form the backbone of these mythological elements.
2. Collaboration with Local Artists: Inclusive Platform: NOLACU will serve as an inclusive platform for artists and storytellers from all over the city. This includes musicians, writers, visual artists, filmmakers, and performers who can contribute their unique talents to the overarching narrative. Decentralized Creation: By decentralizing the creative process, we empower local artists to take ownership of their contributions, ensuring a diverse and authentic representation of New Orleans culture.
3. Technological Integration: Generative AI Art Tools: Utilize generative AI tools to create and animate vast domains of history, mythology, and original intellectual property (IP). These tools enable rapid and expansive content creation, allowing us to build rich, immersive worlds that reflect the unique essence of New Orleans. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR):
Utilizing AR and VR technologies, we can create interactive experiences that allow audiences to immerse themselves fully in the stories of New Orleans. These technologies will enable real-time interaction with historical and mythical characters, providing a deeper connection to the narrative. Blockchain and NFTs: Blockchain technology and NFTs will be used to support and monetize the work of local artists. NFTs will offer unique digital collectibles linked to performances, artworks, and other creative outputs, providing a new revenue stream for artists. 4. Live-Action Role-Playing (LARPing): Interactive Entertainment: LARPing offers an immersive, interactive model of entertainment that can significantly enhance the tourism economy. By creating LARP events that draw on New Orleans’ rich history and mythology, we can attract a diverse audience and provide unique, memorable experiences. Economic Impact: Successful LARP events can be highly profitable, driving tourism and supporting local businesses. They offer a dynamic way to engage visitors and locals alike, turning the city itself into a stage for live, interactive storytelling. 5. Creating Relevant New IP:
• Current Relevance: By tapping into New Orleans’ deep well of history, mythology, and folklore, we can create new stories and characters that resonate with contemporary issues and themes. This makes the NOLACU relevant to current generations and addresses the complexities of our pluralistic society.
• Educational and Cultural Preservation: Educational Programs: Collaborations with local schools and universities will integrate educational programs that teach the history and cultural significance of New Orleans through engaging, interactive content. Cultural Preservation: By documenting and
digitizing these narratives, we ensure that the cultural heritage of New Orleans is preserved for future generations. Conclusion: The New Orleans Cinematic Universe represents a bold vision for the future of entertainment in our city. By expanding our scope to include a diverse array of artists and storytellers, and by leveraging cutting- edge technology like generative AI and LARPing, we can create a decentralized entertainment complex that truly captures the spirit of New Orleans. This initiative not only supports local artists but also enhances the cultural economy and ensures the preservation of our rich heritage. Join us in making this vision a reality and transforming New Orleans into the world’s most immersive, creative hub.
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Programming a Million Pages of Historic Newspaper with AI
This innovative project aims to revolutionize the accessibility and usability of historic newspaper archives from 1888 to 1958. Leveraging advanced AI technology, the project will make these archives programmable, searchable, and enriched with advanced computing capabilities, providing unprecedented access for researchers, historians, and the public. Who wants to build a time machine?
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The Musicians’ Hierarchy of Needs
An oral history + documentary project archiving musicians’ answers to two questions:
1. What do you need most now on your musician’s journey?
2. What did you need most when you first started on your musician’s journey?The Big Goal: 111 Photo Essays from 111 Interviews
The Bigger Goal: 11 two-minute Documentary Shorts
The Biggest Goal: 1 Feature Documentary
Why: Beyond the obvious value of archiving the oral histories of present and future culture bearers, this project is the beginning of an attempt to meet the needs of a community of professionals by first listening.
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You and (👁️ A.I. 愛❤️ I)
Exploring our entanglements with AI technologies and how we can move forward for the benefit of all.
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Probablility Spaces and Machine Learning
Giving some basic insights that the field doesn’t seem to give enough attention and credence to regarding probablility theory and how it can help not just the average data scientist up their game in the field, but also allow the layman to interact with AI in a more effective and impactful way.
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How AI is Changing Writing at Scale: A Tactical Analysis
Most people have first hand experience of how research and writing have been changed for individuals by OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Notebook. But what does that mean for the writing process at scale? This session will explore how AI will change writing and content creation changes in the context of product marketing and content marketing for technology companies with complex products. At their heart, most technology companies, especially startups, are research-based organizations. In order to build a community around their product, they must capture the knowledge they are gaining while building products and supporting customers who use them. How does this process change at a tactical level in the world of AI-powered content creation? How does messaging change? Is this an opportunity to fix many broken aspects of technology marketing? What skills outside of technology are required to get this right? While the details of this analysis come from the world of technology the lessons are broadly applicable in many realms.
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Khanmigo @ College Track!
College Track New Orleans is a nonprofit that commits to scholars for a 10 year journey that begins their ninth grade year to see them to and through college into the life of their dreams. We supported more than 200 students from over 20 high schools here across New Orleans. Hear how we use Khan Academy to boost math skills, test prep, and the college application process with time for questions and recommendations for using Khanmigo in your classroom!
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Reflecting on 20 years of service with Youth Rebuilding New Orleans: building up our youth and community
Our mission to engage and empower local youth through educational and employment opportunities. How workforce development for youth has a great impact on the New Orleans community, highlighting the accomplishments of our young people. Approaching the 20th anniversary of our organization and reflecting on the collective impact we have had on the youth and the impact we’ve made in the city through the work the young people have accomplished (20+ homes).
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Breakout Session: How do we Implement AI for Every Student in NOLA?
A discussion on how we can bring AI to every student. Join luminaries from different schools, tech companies, and advocacy groups as we work toward clear outcomes around bringing AI to every New Orleans student.
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Lousiana Economic Development
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) is responsible for strengthening the state’s business environment and creating a more vibrant Louisiana economy. Josh presents LED’s work and how he’s working to promote an innovation economy.
