Generative AI at SUNY New Paltz: What You Need to Know

What Is Generative AI? 

Generative AI refers to tools that can create content - like text, images, or audio - based on user input. These tools use advanced systems called Large Language Models (LLMs) to produce human-like responses and outputs. SUNY New Paltz is actively exploring how these tools can be used responsibly across campus. This guide explains how Information Technology Services supports and regulates the use of these kinds of tools. 

Campus Policies You Must Follow 

Buying or Using AI Tools 

• All software (including AI tools) must go through the Technology Acquisition Review process, even if the tool is free or open source. 

• This ensures tools meet security and accessibility standards and can be supported by campus IT. 

• Tools that haven’t been reviewed should not be required for coursework or job duties. 

Using AI Responsibly 

When using educational technology tools, including Generative AI tools, you must follow these policies: 

• Undergraduate Academic Integrity and Graduate Academic Integrity: Students are required to adhere to all course and academic policies, as well as specific guidance in the course syllabus. 

• Accessibility Policy: Tools must be usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. 

• Confidential Information Policy: Don’t share confidential or sensitive university data with AI tools.  

• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Protects student privacy and educational records. 

Approved AI Tools on Campus 

These tools are officially supported by SUNY New Paltz and ITS: 

• Generative AI Tools: Brightspace Lumi, Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps, Adobe, Panopto (voice-to-text) 

• Other AI-Enhanced Tools: Ally, Respondus Monitor, Turnitin, Gradescope (pilot), WebEx, Zoom (limited licenses) 

Using tools not on this list could lead to legal, security, or accessibility issues.  

Getting Help or Requesting New Tools 

• Visit the ITS Service Catalog for full tool details. 

• For help or training, contact the Service Desk. 

• To request a new tool, submit a Technology Acquisition Review ticket. 

Why Unsupported Tools Are Risky 

Using tools not approved by SUNY New Paltz can lead to: 

• Security Risks: Data may be exposed or stolen. 

• Legal Issues: Tools may violate laws like FERPA, HIPAA, GLBA, or GDPR. 

• Lack of Accountability: Vendors can’t be held accountable for data that is lost, misused, or accessed improperly if the campus does not have a contract. 

• No Support: ITS can’t help with implementation, issues, or updates. 

• Accessibility Problems: Tools may not meet required accessibility standards. 

Learn More 

• Next, review the Commonsense Guidelines for Generative AI article.
• Then, continue exploring the AI and Generative AI section of our knowledge base.