AI Reads Grad Names at College Commencement, Sparks Debate

Pace University graduates experienced a commencement ceremony with a technological twist: AI-generated voices announced their names. The move sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the accuracy and others lamenting the impersonal touch.

A video circulating on Instagram showcased students scanning QR codes before hearing their names read aloud by an AI. Some likened the experience to a “supermarket checkout,” questioning the value of a personalized graduation moment.

“Because nothing says ‘we value you’ like a synthetic voice butchering your name after four years and thousands of dollars,” wrote user @thedeveloperstory on Threads, who also shared the clip. “What a beautiful personal touch!”

The university had prepared students by allowing them to input phonetic spellings and confirm pronunciations on a dedicated website, aiming for accurate name readings. However, the execution sparked online discussions.

Critics argued that the AI readings lacked the warmth and personal connection of a human announcer. Some questioned the necessity, suggesting a simple rehearsal would have sufficed. Others embraced the efficiency and accuracy of the AI system.

One commenter on Instagram quipped, “Imagine a school that would expel you for using AI to write a paper, but will use AI to read graduate names for them.”

Another on Threads fumed, “Laziness! Are they really scanning people’s phones? What the actual F? That guy couldn’t read their names?”

Not everyone was against the change. Some pointed out similar systems at other universities, where students record their name pronunciations for an AI to use.

Pace University is not the first to experiment with AI at graduation ceremonies. As AI continues to integrate into various aspects of life, the debate continues about balancing technological advancement with human connection.

This incident comes amidst broader concerns about AI’s impact on the job market and the value of higher education. A recent poll indicated that nearly half of Gen Z believes their degrees are becoming obsolete due to AI.

In conclusion, AI is impacting various industries, and now it’s entering commencement ceremonies. What are your thoughts on AI-generated voices reading graduate names? Share your comments below.