The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) is proud to share that Dr. Kollin Napier, Ph.D., Director of MAIN, has completed the AI Policy Clinic (Advanced) with the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP). This advanced international program focused on artificial intelligence governance, policy analysis, research, evaluation, briefing, and leadership in support of responsible AI development and use.
Advancing AI Governance and Policy Leadership
The AI Policy Clinic (Advanced) brought together an interdisciplinary and international cohort of professionals engaged in serious AI policy work grounded in democratic values, accountability, and the public interest. The experience emphasized not only policy concepts, but also the practical work required to evaluate AI systems, communicate findings clearly, and support sound institutional and public decision-making.
For MAIN, this work aligns directly with Mississippi’s need for responsible, practical, and informed AI adoption across education, workforce, government, and industry. As artificial intelligence continues to shape institutions and communities, strong governance and sound policy matter just as much as technical capability.
Leadership and Collaboration in an International Cohort
Dr. Napier was also honored to serve as a Team Leader during the clinic. He extends sincere appreciation to fellow Team Leaders Emma Jones, Joanita Nagaba, and Camille Garrison for their collaboration, professionalism, and leadership throughout the program.
He also extends special thanks to Teaching Fellow Dr. Varsha Sewlal, LLD, for her guidance, and recognizes the broader Teaching Fellows team, including Tamiko Eto, MA CIP, Candice Alder, Cecilia Garcia Podoley, and Marcela Campos Jabôr, for their support of the clinic and the learning experience they helped make possible.
Dr. Napier is also grateful to the Research Group members he had the opportunity to work alongside throughout the clinic. It was a privilege to learn with such a thoughtful and committed international cohort focused on meaningful AI policy work.
Recognition for the CAIDP Community
Dr. Napier also thanks Marc Rotenberg, Merve Hickok, and Dr. Grace S. Thomson for their leadership, as well as the broader CAIDP community for building a rigorous global space for meaningful work in AI policy and governance.
“The future of AI will not be shaped by technology alone. It will also be shaped by governance, sound policy, institutional judgment, and leaders willing to do the work required to ensure AI serves people and society well.”
— Dr. Kollin Napier, Ph.D., Director, Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN)
Why This Matters for Mississippi
This experience reinforced the importance of connecting AI innovation with responsible governance and practical implementation. That is especially important in Mississippi, where MAIN works across K-12 education, higher education, workforce development, government, and industry to help build the capacity needed for an AI-enabled future.
MAIN remains committed to supporting stronger policy conversations, responsible AI adoption, and practical implementation across the state. Experiences like this help strengthen that work and ensure Mississippi is prepared not only to use AI, but to lead thoughtfully in how it is governed and applied.
To learn more about MAIN’s statewide work, visit mainms.org and explore more of our efforts in AI policy, workforce development, and artificial intelligence.
Learn more about Mississippi’s statewide AI initiative at mainms.org.