Denmark, SC, – The National Council for AI Workforce Program Accreditation (NCAIWPA) has appointed Dr. Zhabiz Golkar- Jessie Dorsey Endowed Chair Professor at Voorhees University and Founding Executive Director of the Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI) to its Academic Advisory Council, recognizing her leadership in advancing artificial intelligence education and workforce development.
The NCAIWPA is the nation’s first specialized programmatic accreditation system for artificial intelligence workforce education programs. Supported by the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), the Council works with higher-education institutions, employers, and industry experts to establish rigorous standards that prepare learners for success in the rapidly evolving AI workforce.
Dr. Golkar’s vision, anchored in the principle that “judgment must come before fluency” in AI education, now serves as a cornerstone of the Council’s ethics standards for AI workforce programs. Her work will help shape expectations for graduates who are not only technically proficient but also equipped to make responsible, ethical, and informed decisions in the application of artificial intelligence.
As a member of the Academic Advisory Committee, Dr. Golkar will collaborate with fellow educators, researchers, and industry leaders to further develop accreditation standards, strengthen academic quality, and ensure that AI workforce programs prepare graduates to meet the evolving needs of employers and society.
“I am honored and excited to serve alongside colleagues committed to establishing rigorous, forward-looking standards for AI workforce education,” said Dr. Zhabiz Golkar. “Preparing the next generation of AI professionals requires not only technical excellence but also sound judgment, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to innovation. I look forward to contributing to this important national initiative.”
Dr. Golkar’s appointment reflects her continued leadership in research, innovation, and STEM education at CERPI and further strengthens Voorhees University’s growing role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence, workforce readiness, and higher-education excellence.
About CERPI
The Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI) advances research and student training across artificial intelligence, computational and life sciences, and STEM workforce development. Learn more at www.voorheescerpi.org