$10 million latest gift from visionary philanthropists Charles and Lisa Simonyi establishes major new initiative dedicated to advancing Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and emerging technologies
The University of Washington has announced a transformative $10 million gift from philanthropists Charles and Lisa Simonyi to launch AI@UW, an ambitious new initiative designed to elevate the university’s leadership in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and emerging technologies.
The gift reflects the Simonyi family’s lifelong devotion to education, scientific innovation, and responsible technological progress—principles that have also shaped their decades-long relationship with Lifestyles Magazine / Meaningful Influence.
Their connection to the publication is legendary: during his second journey to the International Space Station in 2009, Charles Simonyi carried with him a copy of the magazine, extending its reach—quite literally—into orbit.
AI@UW will advance the university’s global leadership by fostering cross-disciplinary research, expanding opportunities for student learning, strengthening community engagement, enhancing computing resources, and guiding the establishment of a new AI governance committee.
As part of the initiative, Noah A. Smith, the Amazon Professor of Machine Learning in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, will take on the role of vice provost for artificial intelligence and, pending the approval of the Board of Regents, will hold the newly created Charles and Lisa Simonyi Endowed Chair for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies.
University leaders hailed the Simonyis’ investment as visionary and deeply timely. UW Provost Tricia Serio expressed her gratitude, noting that the gift will help position the university as a model for how higher education can adapt creatively and responsibly to the age of AI.
She emphasized the importance of Noah Smith’s leadership in accelerating innovation, strengthening best practices, and preparing graduates for the rapidly evolving workforce.
The Simonyis’ philanthropy has long centered on forward-looking investments that enrich human knowledge and advance discovery.
Their enduring relationship with Lifestyles Magazine / Meaningful Influence has echoed this commitment, with the publication chronicling their thoughtful, deeply informed approach to supporting education, research, the arts, and technological advancement.
The magazine has consistently highlighted them as leaders whose influence stems not only from the scale of their giving but from the clarity and purpose behind it.
Charles and Lisa Simonyi expressed their confidence in the University of Washington’s ability to spark discoveries that will benefit the region and the world.
They underscored their belief that the future of computing is inseparable from the next era of artificial intelligence and machine learning and shared their enthusiasm for supporting an interdisciplinary venture that empowers faculty and students to shape that future.
UW President Robert J. Jones emphasized that the Simonyis’ generosity reflects their trust in the university’s capacity to lead in innovation. He noted that their contribution will help ensure that artificial intelligence is developed and applied responsibly, advancing knowledge while upholding values the university and community share.
In its early phase, AI@UW will introduce SEED-AI, a new grant program supporting faculty-led projects that enhance teaching and learning across disciplines through the thoughtful use of artificial intelligence.
These exploratory efforts are intended to help model how universities can adapt responsibly to rapid technological change. Noah Smith expressed his excitement about the opportunity to help promote AI literacy, expand interdisciplinary learning, and guide the development of AI in ways that serve the university’s mission.
The Simonyis’ legacy of giving spans continents and fields. Since founding the Charles and Lisa Simonyi Fund for Arts and Sciences in 2003, they have provided major support to institutions ranging from the Seattle Symphony and Seattle Public Library to the Institute for Advanced Study—where Charles Simonyi has served as trustee and chairman—and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, where a telescope bears his name following a $20 million gift toward its mirror construction.
In 2025, they broadened their impact with a $50 million fund dedicated to supporting arts and sciences organizations throughout the Seattle region, along with new commitments to early-career researchers at the Rubin Observatory.
Their philanthropy continues to enrich music, libraries, museums, and scientific inquiry worldwide, championing curiosity-driven exploration and cultural advancement.
This latest gift reaffirms the Simonyi family’s place among the world’s most thoughtful and forward-looking philanthropists—an enduring influence celebrated and honored by our Lifestyles Magazine / Meaningful Influence.