Brandie Nonnecke, the Founding Director of the CITRIS Policy Lab at the University of California, Berkeley, is spearheading efforts to ensure that the development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) are guided by ethical principles and responsible practices. With a background that uniquely combines technology policy and human rights, Nonnecke’s work is at the forefront of addressing the complexities and challenges of deploying AI in ways that benefit society while mitigating potential harms.
The University of California, under the guidance of leaders like Nonnecke, has adopted a set of overarching principles for the responsible use of AI. These principles aim to establish transparency and accountability in AI deployment, addressing concerns about discrimination, bias, and privacy violations. Nonnecke’s efforts underscore the critical need for systematic processes to evaluate AI technologies’ fairness, accuracy, and reliability.
Nonnecke’s journey into the realm of tech policy and AI ethics began in an unlikely place—graphic design and advertising. Her work in one of Uganda’s poorest districts as a designer for the Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods sparked her interest in telecommunications policy, leading her to pursue a doctorate in mass communications with an emphasis on telecommunications policy. Nonnecke’s research at UC Berkeley has had a broad impact, influencing policies and sparking dialogues at both the state and national levels, including engagements with the White House and the Federal Trade Commission.
The CITRIS Policy Lab, under Nonnecke’s leadership, has become a hub for research and policy development that intersects technology and governance. Initiatives like the California Report Card, developed in collaboration with then Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, showcase her commitment to leveraging technology for public engagement and policy feedback. Nonnecke’s work extends beyond academic circles, engaging with lawmakers to shape policies that ensure technology serves the public good.
In March 2024, UC Berkeley hosted the inaugural Tech Policy Summit, co-sponsored by the CITRIS Policy Lab and other institutions, highlighting Nonnecke’s dedication to fostering discussions on AI governance, trust, and ethical technology. The Summit drew academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to debate and navigate the complex landscape of tech policy. This event underscores UC Berkeley’s role, with Nonnecke at the helm, in aligning technological progress with societal values.
Nonnecke’s vision for responsible AI is not just theoretical; it is practical and grounded in the real-world implications of AI deployment. Her leadership in the Presidential Working Group on Artificial Intelligence at UC has led to actionable recommendations for AI oversight within the university system. This includes establishing governance processes, risk and impact assessment strategies, and public documentation of AI technologies to promote accountability.
Brandie Nonnecke’s work exemplifies the critical role of women in AI and technology policy, demonstrating how interdisciplinary approaches can bridge the gap between technological innovation and ethical governance. Her efforts highlight the importance of investor and institutional support for responsible AI practices, setting a standard for how universities and other organizations can navigate the ethical dimensions of technological advancement.
