Aug. 14, 2025 — The University of Memphis hosted hundreds of AI enthusiasts for the AI + Cybersecurity Conference. Inside the FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT), six sessions and two keynote presentations delivered insightful discussions, strategic foresight and strong momentum in AI-driven cybersecurity.
“The UofM through its FedEx Institute of Technology has a responsibility of keeping our region at the cutting-edge of all emerging technologies that are changing the regional economy and our society,” said Dr. Jasbir Dhaliwal, University of Memphis executive vice president of Research & Innovation and FedEx Institute of Technology executive director.
Industry, academia, government, researchers and community innovators were among those who attended. Dr. David Bray opened with a keynote on AI’s role in transforming governance, infrastructure and leadership, followed by sessions showcasing real-world AI adoption, advances in broadband cybersecurity, and the evolving intersections of technology, work and daily life. Panels highlighted Memphis’ grassroots tech innovation and shared strategies for AI-enabled cyber defense. The event closed with Dr. Seth Dobrin’s keynote emphasizing trust, resilience and human-centered design in an AI-driven security landscape.
During the event, the University of Memphis announced the establishment of a new research center for artificial intelligence, housed within the FIT. Led by Dr. Srikar Velichety, associate professor of Management Information Systems, Dr. Xiaolei Huang, assistant professor in Computer Science and Dr. Bernie Daigle, associate professor of Biology, the research center will serve as a hub for advancing AI innovation and research. This research center underscores the University’s commitment to driving cutting-edge research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and positioning Memphis as a leader in emerging technologies.
“This conference and our 901 AI community group are examples of such efforts,” Dhaliwal said. “We are especially excited to partner with the Memphis Society of Information Management (SIM) and other partners in this effort.”
The conference underscored Memphis’s growing role as a crossroads for AI-driven cybersecurity innovation, with dynamic sessions and interactive discussions, attendees left with actionable insights, promising partnerships and a renewed commitment to security-conscious innovation. Sponsors included the Memphis Society of Information Management (SIM), eBIZ Solutions, 901 AI and the University of Memphis.
Media Contact:
Parker King, Assistant Director
University Media and Public Relations
University of Memphis
(O) 901.678.4822
