Perficient Wins 2024 Innovation in Philanthropy Award for AI Education Boot Camp

Perficient, a global digital consultancy, has received the 2024 Innovation in Philanthropy Award from the St. Louis Business Journal. 

The award was given for the company's efforts in hosting Artificial Intelligence (AI) Boot Camps for high school students in collaboration with the Mark Cuban Foundation. The foundation supports organisations in enhancing STEM education within their communities.

This recognition follows Perficient's decision to extend its partnership with the Mark Cuban Foundation to host AI Boot Camps in additional markets. The expansion includes Dallas, Houston, Detroit, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Atlanta, and Fargo, North Dakota. 

Since 2019, the Mark Cuban Foundation has organised no-cost AI Boot Camps in over 30 cities. These upcoming camps, sponsored by Perficient, will teach high school students basic AI concepts through presentations, interactive lessons, and laboratory exercises.

Bill Davis, Senior Vice President at Perficient, commented on the collaboration:

 “It’s an honour to be recognised for our collaboration with the Mark Cuban Foundation, and we’re excited to introduce even more high school students to AI by hosting additional AI Bootcamps later this year.

“With the proliferation of AI, increasing AI education is essential, especially among today’s youth. We are proud to partner with the Mark Cuban Foundation to educate the next generation of technology leaders, mentor students in AI, and ensure the future of STEM.”

The AI Boot Camps aim to make AI education accessible to students from grades 9-12, regardless of their prior experience with computer science or programming. The sessions cover topics such as the definition of AI, its everyday applications, ethical considerations, and the effective use of AI technologies like ChatGPT.

Lauren Ronse, Director of Partnerships at the Mark Cuban Foundation, highlighted the benefits of the expanded program:

 “We’re thrilled to bring our AI Bootcamps to more cities across the country and partner with Perficient to offer cohorts in seven regions. Students will benefit from the mentorship of Perficient volunteers, who will help teach our curriculum and inspire students to pursue education and careers in technology. 

“The impact of each programme is monumental, and through the knowledge shared, we’re setting each student up for success.”