Ambassador Network
Regional champions bridging the AI research gap in underserved communities
Addressing the Western Gap
The NAIRR Annual Report identified critical outreach needs in ND, SD, WY, ID, MT, NE, NV. Our inaugural cohort prioritizes ambassadors in these EPSCoR states.
6
Ambassadors
11
States
8
EPSCoR States
61
Institutions
352
Users Onboarded
60
Events Hosted
Dr. Sarah Running Horse
Western GapAssociate Professor of Computer Science
United Tribes Technical College
Leading AI education initiatives across tribal colleges in the Northern Plains. Focus on culturally-relevant AI applications for indigenous communities.
Prof. Michael Chen
Western GapDirector, Wyoming Supercomputing Center
University of Wyoming
Building HPC capacity across Wyoming and neighboring states. Specializes in atmospheric science and energy research applications.
Dr. Maria Gutierrez
Western GapAssistant Professor of Data Science
Boise State University
Expanding AI research capacity in Idaho. Focus on agricultural AI and community college partnerships.
Dr. James Whiteshield
STEM Director
Navajo Technical University
Pioneering AI education in the Four Corners region. Developing curriculum that integrates traditional knowledge with modern AI techniques.
Prof. Linda Blackwood
Western GapCS Department Chair
South Dakota School of Mines
Connecting engineering students with national AI infrastructure. Focus on materials science and defense applications.
Join the Network
Are you passionate about expanding AI research access in your region? Apply to become a NAIRR Ambassador and help bridge the digital divide.
Apply Now