Announcing the Robert W. Bertrand Endowed Chair in Computer Science

Dear Members of the Georgetown University Community,

I am writing to share the news of a remarkable $13.7 million gift from Robert (C’62, P’05) and Allison Bertrand (P’05) to establish the Robert W. Bertrand Endowed Chair in Computer Science, dedicated to advancing research and teaching in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

This extraordinary gift deepens Georgetown’s existing work in integrating science, technology, and ethics with a dedicated focus on exploring the potential of AI and ensuring its ethical application.

The Bertrand Chair will make it possible to recruit a distinguished scholar who has a strong technical background and brings a deep commitment to ethical inquiry and social responsibility regarding AI. It will also create opportunities for our students and faculty to collaborate across disciplines and help prepare our graduates to navigate the profound questions posed by rapidly emerging technologies like AI.

The Bertrands’ generosity builds on their decades of service and engagement with Georgetown. Bob has served as an Alumni Admissions Program interviewer and Alumni Ambassador for the Class of 1962. Bob and Allison are both members of the Georgetown University Loyalty Society, and they joined the Legacy Society in 2012 through a bequest in support of the 1789 Scholarship Initiative.

Please join me in thanking Bob and Allison Bertrand for their investment in Georgetown and for strengthening knowledge production in a field that is increasingly present in our daily lives. Their generosity ensures that Georgetown will continue to educate future leaders guided by innovation and a commitment to serving the greater good.

Sincerely,

Robert M. Groves
Interim President