North Carolina Central University (NCCU) has been named the 2026 Tambellini Future Campus Award winner in the Teaching and Learning category.
The national award honors institutions using artificial intelligence, data and technology to address institutional challenges and create measurable impact in higher education. NCCU was recognized for building an accessible, ethical and workforce-focused AI ecosystem through the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER).
Through IAIER, NCCU has connected AI education with faculty development, applied research, professional credentials, student leadership programs and interdisciplinary academic pathways. The institute’s work supports students across disciplines in learning how to use, question and shape artificial intelligence responsibly.
Tambellini announced the Future Campus Award winners during its 2026 Future Campus Summit. NCCU was honored alongside Paul Smith’s College, University of Maryland Global Campus and Texas Southern University, which received awards in other categories.
The recognition reflects NCCU’s growing leadership in AI teaching and learning and the university’s continued commitment to preparing students, faculty and staff to engage emerging technologies with purpose.