Stephen J. McConnell, Ph.D., is an award-winning educator, journalist, and researcher who is the AI Program Coordinator at New York University’s Center for Publishing, Writing, and Media. He also teaches at the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Stephen brings a unique, interdisciplinary perspective to his teaching and research — shaped by a dynamic career that began as a daily newspaper reporter, transitioned to launching a successful digital marketing and content development company, and now focuses on the impacts of artificial intelligence on media, communication, and learning.

At the university level, Stephen has an extensive record of developing and teaching innovative courses. He spearheaded New York University’s Communications & AI program, where he helped build a successful curriculum, beginning with developing and teaching the inaugural course. Under his supervision, the AI program has since expanded to include several courses, certificates, and a community of instructors and teaching assistants.

Since 2017, he has taught at multiple R1 universities across the U.S.

Stephen holds a Ph.D. in Public Communication and Technology from Colorado State University, an M.S. in Professional Writing from New York University, and a B.S. in English from Radford University.

His academic and public scholarship examines human–AI interactions. On these and other topics, he has delivered keynotes, served on panels, and appeared in media outlets, including public radio. He is currently writing a book for educators, students, and industry professionals on learning and working with AI.