Old Dominion University (ODU) has launched MonarchMind, a secure, university-hosted generative AI platform designed for faculty and staff.
The university said the new platform is intended to support productivity, while prioritizing privacy, security and ethical AI use. The platform provides a controlled AI environment that aligns with the needs of higher education institution.
“The launch of MonarchMind is a defining moment in Old Dominion University’s journey toward becoming a national leader in AI innovation,” said President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., “This powerful tool underscores our commitment to equipping faculty and staff with cutting-edge technology that enhances research, teaching and operations, while maintaining the highest standards of security and ethical responsibility. MonarchMind is more than just an AI interface; it is a testament to ODU’s forward-focused vision and our dedication to preparing the Monarch community for an AI-driven future.”
In a press release, ODU said MonarchMind was designed to help faculty and staff integrate AI into their daily work without compromising security or ethical standards. The university further noted that unlike public AI tools, MonarchMind operates within a closed, university-managed system, ensuring data remains encrypted and securely stored within ODU’s infrastructure.
“MonarchMind marks a significant step in ODU’s commitment to innovation,” said Nina Rodriguez Gonser, Vice President for Digital Transformation & Technology. “This platform, empowers our faculty and staff with secure, cutting-edge AI tools that streamline workflows, enhance productivity and enrich the academic experience. This is just the beginning of ODU’s AI journey, and we are excited to see how our community leverages this transformative technology.”
The new platform is part of ODU’s broader AI strategy, which includes other initiatives focused on integrating AI into the classroom, training students with the skills needed to join the AI workforce, and working on research projects focused on coastal resilience, healthcare, maritime operations and cybersecurity.
“MonarchMind is built with higher education’s unique challenges and opportunities in mind,” said Chrysoula Malogianni, Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Digital Innovation. “We are not just adopting AI; we are shaping how it can be responsibly integrated into teaching, research and University operations. MonarchMind provides a structured, ethical AI environment that allows faculty and staff to innovate confidently.”
