Students Boo Commencement Speaker After She Calls AI Next Industrial Revolution

2026-05-11 | original

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Why This Matters

The backlash to the commencement speech highlights the mixed perceptions of AI's role in society, especially among future humanists and communicators. It underscores the ongoing debate about AI's impact on jobs, ethics, and cultural values within the tech industry and beyond. Recognizing these sentiments is crucial for developers, educators, and policymakers shaping AI's development and integration.

Key Takeaways

AI is viewed as a transformative but controversial force, akin to the industrial revolution.
Public sentiment toward AI varies, with some seeing it as disruptive and others as an opportunity.
Engaging with diverse perspectives is essential for responsible AI development and adoption.

Speaking to graduates of University of Central Florida’s College of Arts and Humanities and Nicholson School of Communication and Media on May 8, commencement speaker Gloria Caulfield, vice president of strategic alliances at Tavistock Group, told graduating humanities students that AI is the “next industrial revolution,” and was met with thousands of booing graduates.

“And let’s face it, change can be daunting. The rise of artificial intelligence is the next industrial revolution,” Caulfield said. At that point, murmurs rippled through the crowd. Caulfield paused, and the crowd erupted into boos. “Oh, what happened?” Caulfield said, turning around with her hands out. “Okay, I struck a chord. May I finish?” Someone in the crowd yelled, “AI SUCKS!”

Explore topics: university of central florida tavistock group industrial revolution gloria caulfield