2026 Business Acumen Series: AI in HR: Practical, Ethical, and Responsible Use

Wednesday, October 28, 2026; 9am-3pm

Artificial intelligence is changing how we recruit, develop, support, and manage their people. Additionally, AI can also provide a practical way to increase efficiency when HR responsibilities fall to an owner, manager, or employee who wears multiple hats rather than a dedicated HR professional.

This workshop provides a practical introduction to using AI for HR-related tasks, regardless of prior AI experience. Participants will explore applications across recruiting, employee communication, onboarding, development, performance management, and administrative tasks, with an emphasis on saving time and extending organizational capacity. The workshop will also examine ethical considerations including bias, privacy, accuracy, transparency, and human oversight, as well as common pitfalls and inappropriate uses. The workshop emphasizes practical decision-making over technical expertise and provides strategies for using AI efficiently while maintaining professional judgment and a human-centered approach.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Identify practical AI applications that can improve efficiency across HR functions.
• Explore ways to use AI to extend capacity when dedicated HR resources are limited.
• Evaluate ethical and organizational risks associated with AI use in HR.
• Apply best practices for responsible and effective use of AI tools.
• Recognize inappropriate or high-risk uses of AI and identify potential alternatives.
• Make informed, human-centered decisions about incorporating AI into workplace practices.

Seminars are held in person at the UMW Stafford Campus.

Speaker: Donya Jenkins