University of South Carolina to Host National AI Communications Summit

The conference, scheduled for October 9 at the Russell House University Union, features an executive lineup including BBDO Worldwide Chairman Andrew Robertson, AT&T Senior Vice President Valerie Vargas, and FOX News Digital President Porter Berry. These voices will lead discussions on how newsrooms and creative agencies are integrating generative tools while navigating the ethical demands of modern corporate communications.

Following the professional sessions, the event shifts focus to the next generation of practitioners with a Student AI Challenge on October 10. University students from across the state will form interdisciplinary teams to solve real-world communications hurdles. Participants will compete for a total prize pool of $15,000, with $7,500 awarded to the winning group. Organizers emphasize that no technical coding background is required, prioritizing strategy and creative application over raw programming skills. The event is supported by partners including Google, Vurvey Labs, and the South Carolina Research Authority.