Celebrating 50 Years of Opening Minds with California Humanities
California Humanities proudly invites you to the kickoff celebration of our 50th Anniversary on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the historic City Club of San Francisco. This milestone event brings together leaders in the humanities, technology, and public service for a thought-provoking conversation on society’s quest for an ethical relationship with artificial intelligence. Please save the date for to celebrate with us on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the City Club of San Fransico.
“For 50 years, California Humanities has championed stories that illuminate our shared humanity and foster deeper understanding,” said Rick Noguchi, President and CEO of California Humanities. “This anniversary is an opportunity to honor that legacy while tackling today’s critical challenges. By bridging the humanities with emerging technologies, we aim to ensure equity and ethics remain central to the conversations shaping our future.”
The event will feature an engaging panel moderated by Rachael Myrow, Senior Editor at KQED’s Silicon Valley News Desk, with panelists who are redefining the role of ethics in technology and society:
- Dr. Damon Horowitz, a philosopher and technology entrepreneur, has made a career out of examining the ethical implications of AI and technology’s role in society. With experience teaching at Stanford and San Quentin State Prison and as a former “In-House Philosopher” at Google, Dr. Horowitz brings a unique perspective on how philosophy informs innovation.
- Michele Elam, the William Robertson Coe Professor of Humanities at Stanford, explores how the humanities and arts can guide the development of AI in equitable ways. Her work examines the intersection of race, technology, and policy, offering critical insights into creating socially responsible tech solutions.
- Rob Bonta, California’s Attorney General, provides a legal and public policy lens, drawing on his career advocating for justice, accountability, and equity in governance.
A special highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the inaugural Spirit of Humanities Award to Tani Cantil-Sakauye, President and CEO of the Public Policy Institute of California, for her significant contributions to the intersections of the humanities, criminal justice, and social policy.
As we mark this milestone, the event underscores our enduring commitment to the power of storytelling, reflection, and dialogue to inspire a just and connected future.
Save the Date! We hope you plan to join us for this unforgettable evening.
