AI for Public Good: Safety, Systems, and Social Impact
Join AI Portland for a powerful evening exploring how artificial intelligence is being harnessed to serve and protect our communities. This thought-provoking session brings together experts who are actively applying AI to address critical social challenges—from public health initiatives to combating online child exploitation.
What to Expect
The evening will feature two dynamic 20-minute lightning talks followed by a moderated panel Q&A led by Megan Notarte, co-founder of AI Portland. This format will allow for both in-depth exploration of how AI is creating positive social impact and interactive discussion about the ethical considerations that shape this work.
Speakers
Dr. Richard Bruno
MD, MPH, FAAFP, FACPM, AAHIVS
Family & Preventive Medicine physician
AI for All Y'all: Ensuring AI Serves the Common Good
As AI rapidly evolves, how can we ensure it truly serves everyone in our community? Dr. Bruno will explore current and emerging applications of AI in medicine and public health—from AI-powered diagnostics to public health surveillance systems. Drawing on his experience as both a family physician and public health leader, he'll discuss practical applications already making a difference in healthcare access and outcomes. Dr. Bruno will also address critical questions around equity, ethics, and the necessity of human oversight as we navigate this technological frontier together.
Cassie Scyphers,
Senior Manager of Data Science, Thorn
Technology as a Force for Good: AI's Role in Child Protection
The rapid advancement of technology—including AI—is reshaping every corner of the internet. Growing just as quickly are the threats children face. As new tools and platforms emerge, so do new avenues for child sexual abuse and exploitation. The scale and complexity of this issue is difficult to comprehend, and as a result, it’s often left in the shadows. Thorn is working to change that—shedding light on these hidden harms and proving that technology, including AI, can be part of the solution. The future of AI is still being written, and Thorn is helping to shape it for the better. In this session, Cassie will offer a behind-the-scenes look at how Thorn is using AI to meet this challenge head-on—developing tools that help platforms detect child sexual abuse material (CSAM), identify text that may be related to child exploitation, and support investigators working to protect children in real time. Her session will offer a thorough look at the devastating harms happening to children right now, but close with a hopeful call to action: AI can be used for good—and it already is.
Important Note
This event will include discussion of sensitive topics related to child safety online and child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Whether you're an AI practitioner, public sector professional, or simply curious about the positive applications of this technology, this event offers a unique opportunity to:
Discover how AI is being applied to tackle real-world problems in our local community
Learn about ethical approaches to using AI for social impact
Connect with others who share your interest in technology for good
Ask questions directly to experts working at the intersection of AI and social impact