Fordham University Launches AI Research Fund
Fordham University is proud to announce the establishment of a new fund dedicated to the study of artificial intelligence (AI) in finance, economics, and related fields. This initiative is made possible through a generous donation from alumnus and investor Peter Zangari, Ph.D., who aims to foster innovation and research at his alma mater.
Supporting Research and Education
The Zangari Family Research and Innovation Fund will support various research projects involving faculty and students focused on AI applications. The goal of this fund is to bolster collaborations with industry leaders, thereby enhancing Fordham’s academic profile while providing students with critical hands-on experience that can lead to internships and job opportunities.
Dr. Zangari emphasizes the fund’s potential to create a “multiplier effect,” influencing sectors beyond finance, such as healthcare and education. “This initiative will benefit not only faculty but also students, and ultimately, the broader community impacted by this research,” he stated.
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Incubating Interdisciplinary Research
Dr. Zangari’s generous contribution of $1 million to Fordham will significantly strengthen the planned transdisciplinary research incubator. This incubator aims to unite experts from various fields to tackle pressing research issues, thereby aligning with the University’s Strategic Plan.
Tania Tetlow, President of Fordham University, remarked, “Fordham is committed to investing in research and innovation to address current challenges. Peter’s generous gift is a beacon of encouragement that underscores our mission.” She expressed gratitude for Dr. Zangari’s unwavering support for faculty and commitment to nurturing ethical leaders in AI.
Creating Opportunities for Future Talents
Having graduated from Fordham with a degree in economics in 1989 and later obtaining his doctorate from Rutgers University, Dr. Zangari has held multiple leadership roles in management, research, investment management, product development, and fintech. He is also a member of the Fordham University President’s Council and will teach a course on AI and financial markets this fall.
Dr. Zangari currently serves as a partner at MDOTM, a fintech firm that specializes in AI-driven investment solutions. He plans to facilitate connections between industry and university faculty and students, fostering internships and networking opportunities that will establish Fordham as a vital source of talent in the field of artificial intelligence.
Accelerating Innovation Through AI
The integration of AI in research presents an opportunity for educators from diverse disciplines to collaborate effectively on complex problems, potentially speeding up the research process. Dr. Zangari notes, “With AI, we might achieve significant breakthroughs more rapidly—perhaps reducing the timeline from ten years to just two.”
He further explains the transformative nature of AI: “AI streamlines processes that traditionally require extensive time and resources, allowing us to work on meaningful solutions more efficiently.”
For more insights on the importance of university research, check out President Tetlow’s recent state speech.