Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a state-of-the-art AI supercomputer at the University at Albany, representing a significant investment of $16. 5 million. This supercomputer, featuring 24 NVIDIA DGX systems and 192 NVIDIA Tensor Core GPUs, is central to UAlbany’s AI Plus initiative, which aims to integrate AI education across all colleges to prepare graduates for a tech-driven future. Governor Hochul emphasized New York's legacy of innovation, stating that this supercomputer provides vital opportunities for students and researchers. The system's advanced computing capabilities allow for rapid processing of complex AI tasks, vastly reducing the time needed for calculations in areas like deep learning, computer vision, and cancer prediction. This supercomputer aligns with Governor Hochul's Empire AI initiative, which is supported by over $400 million and aims to position New York as a leader in AI research and development. UAlbany received $75 million from the FY23 Enacted Budget for both infrastructure and AI enhancements, indicating a significant commitment to growing AI capacity. To further strengthen its AI program, UAlbany is hiring 27 new AI faculty, marking the largest recruitment in its history. The combined expertise will advance research in diverse fields, contributing to solutions for public health, climate science, and more. SUNY Chancellor John B.

King Jr. praised the supercomputer as a breakthrough for AI research in New York, emphasizing its societal benefits. UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez highlighted the supercomputer's role in facilitating impactful research, reinforcing UAlbany’s status as a leader in AI integration. Political leaders from the state commended the initiative, recognizing the supercomputer’s potential to enhance educational opportunities and attract talent to New York. UAlbany, as a highly diverse R1 research institution, continues to foster educational equity and advance knowledge across various fields, while the broader SUNY system serves nearly 1. 4 million students, emphasizing its critical role in higher education in New York.