35th Annual Public Service and Outreach Awards Luncheon
PSO: Integrating AI & GenAI into Work Routines
This interactive session explores practical ways to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) into everyday work routines. Designed for faculty and staff who are interested in adopting AI but unsure where to begin, the session will highlight how these tools can streamline tasks, boost productivity, and enhance creativity. Participants will also learn best practices and considerations for responsible and effective adoption.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify key AI and GenAI tools that can improve efficiency in their daily workflows
- Apply practical strategies for incorporating AI into routine tasks such as content creation, data analysis, and decision-making
- Evaluate considerations for ethical use and organizational readiness when adopting AI technologies
Presenters:
Scott King, Scientific Computing Professional Specialist, Carl Vinson Institute of Government
Scott King has been with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government since 2019. As a scientific computing professional specialist, he is responsible for organizing and presenting data in meaningful ways that enable leaders and the public to make informed decisions. King is known for going above and beyond in his work, and brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Prior to joining UGA, King worked as a data entry specialist at Nelnet. In 2025, King received the Public Service and Outreach Staff Award for Excellence, which acknowledges individuals for their exceptional performance, innovation, creativity and commitment to service. King holds degrees from Armstrong State University and UGA.
Robbie Parks, Statewide CE Trainer and Business Consultant, Small Business Development Center
Robbie Parks has been with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for over six years, working as a business consultant and statewide Continuing Education trainer since 2024. In her role, she delivers instruction and consulting to entrepreneurs, with a specialization in digital and traditional marketing strategy, brand management, website design and more. Parks designs and implements comprehensive business training programs tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs throughout Georgia. She also supports professional development initiatives for SBDC faculty. Prior to joining UGA, Parks was at Central Georgia Technical College for 15 years as an advancement coordinator and later as director for student communications and enrollment analysis. She holds a bachelor’s degree in information technology from Middle Georgia State University and an MBA from UGA.
James Byars, Senior Data Scientist, Carl Vinson Institute of Government
James Byars has worked with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government since 2014. In his current role, Byars specializes in the design and implementation of data solutions using data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, data storytelling and more. He leads a team of data analysts and data scientists who provide technical support and training for internal and external partners throughout Georgia. Byars also has experience in presenting at workshops and conferences about his areas of expertise. He is a recipient of the Public Service and Outreach Staff Award for Excellence for 2023 and is a graduate of PSO’s Leadership Academy. Byars earned his bachelor’s degree from Murray State University, and his master’s degree from North Carolina State University.
View session options
Morning
- PSO: Where Action Meets Impact 1 (Room L)
- Developing Grant Proposals: Tools and Techniques to Help You Secure Funding for Your Programs (Room R)
- An Inside Look at the PSO Scholarship Academy (Room T/U)
- Mentoring for Professional Growth: Building Strong Connections in PSO (Room K)
- Highlights of Look Ahead Georgia (Room Q)
- Cultivating Meaningful Student Engagement in PSO (Room V/W)
- The Lowdown on Dossiers – Tips and Hints for Faculty Promotion (Room F/G)
Afternoon
- PSO: Where Action Meets Impact 2 (Room V/W)
- Teaming Up for Success: How to Effectively Collaborate with Academic Faculty to Secure Large Scale Federal Grants (Room R)
- Public Speaking & Impactful Presentations (Room Q)
- PSO: Integrating AI & GenAI into Work Routines (Room K)
- Managing Your Own Professional Development (Room F/G)
- Using Data Storytelling to Communicate Impact (Room L)
- Showcase Roundtables of PSO Programs for Faculty and Staff (Room Y/Z)