Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various aspects of our lives, especially in urban settings where its impact is profound. The need for ethical development and deployment of AI is critical, particularly in sectors like criminal justice. Renée Cummings, a leading AI ethicist and the founder and CEO of Urban AI, LLC, is at the forefront of this mission, ensuring that AI technologies are developed and used responsibly to benefit all communities, particularly those historically marginalized.
Bridging AI and Urban Communities
Founded in 2019 by Renée Cummings, Urban AI, LLC is a New York-based company dedicated to researching and guiding the ethical development of AI in urban communities. With a Master’s Degree in criminal justice and a graduate certificate in terrorism studies, Cummings brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role.
Before establishing Urban AI, she spent a decade as an international consultant in criminal justice and law enforcement. During this time, she encountered risk-assessment software that inaccurately predicted recidivism rates, often leading to unjust outcomes for individuals seeking parole. This experience fueled her commitment to exploring and mitigating the ethical implications of AI in criminal justice systems.
A Champion for AI Ethics and Transparency
Today, Renée Cummings is an established AI ethicist, focusing on the ethical implications of AI on society, particularly its impact on BIPOC communities. Her work emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in AI development and usage, advocating for algorithms that do not perpetuate biases or injustices.
Cummings holds several prestigious positions, including being a Senior Fellow for AI, Data, and Public Policy at The Brookings Institution and the first Data Activist-in-Residence at the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science. She also serves on the World Economic Forum’s Data Equity Council and the AI Governance Alliance, reflecting her significant influence in the field of AI ethics.
Pioneering Ethical AI for Future Urban Societies
Renée Cummings’ work at Urban AI and beyond is crucial for the future of AI in urban societies. She is dedicated to ensuring that AI technologies are ethically resilient, responsible, and justice-oriented. At the University of Virginia, her research focuses on data justice, data trauma, algorithmic policing, and AI for criminal justice reform. Her efforts aim to enhance police accountability, improve fairness in decision-making, and foster community engagement in the development of public interest technology. Cummings’ commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion drives her advocacy for inclusive innovation and trustworthy AI.
Through her activism and research, Cummings is creating spaces for historically underrepresented communities to participate meaningfully in AI design, development, and deployment. As a thought leader and motivational speaker, she educates and inspires audiences worldwide about ethical data science and AI. Her expertise in AI policy development, governance, and risk management is helping shape a future where AI technologies empower and transform societies equitably. Renée Cummings’ work is not just about creating AI we can trust, but about ensuring that AI serves the broader goal of justice and empowerment for all.
To read more startup stories visit- usabusinesspress