Seton Hall University recently hosted a two-day seminar titled “Ethics and Values in the Era of AI” on January 30–31, 2026. The event brought together students, educators, professionals, and community partners to discuss the ethical, social, and economic impacts of artificial intelligence.
The seminar was presented by the International Academy of Catholic Leaders and Seton Hall University. It was organized in collaboration with several university entities including the G. K. Chesterton Institute for Faith & Culture, the Center for Catholic Studies, Campus Ministry, and the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute. Community organizations such as Somos Community Care, Basilica Medical Management, and Young Catholic Professionals North Jersey also partnered in the event. The program took place in Bethany Hall and featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and table conversations centered on Catholic social teaching and human dignity.
Gloria Garafulich-Grabois, director of the G. K. Chesterton Institute for Faith & Culture, commented on hosting the seminar: “It was a privilege for Seton Hall University to host the inaugural New Jersey seminar of the International Academy of Catholic Leaders, presented in collaboration with multiple university units and external partners,” she said. “Over the course of two days, the seminar addressed timely and important questions that are increasingly present in our professional and daily lives. The presentations and discussions invited us to critically assess and embrace Catholic ethics and values when engaging this new technology — recognizing its potential for great good, as well as the serious consequences when it is used without moral grounding.”
Speakers at the event stressed that artificial intelligence must be guided by ethical considerations rather than being seen as neutral technology. Shariff de los Santos, Ph.D., co-founder of Basilica Medical Management said: “In a world where technology evolves faster than ever, this seminar was a powerful reminder that progress without values is not true progress,” he said. “Artificial intelligence can become a great tool for humanity, but only if it is guided by principles such as truth, dignity, responsibility and respect for human life. As Catholic leaders, we are called not only to embrace innovation, but to ensure that innovation serves the common good and remains aligned with the moral teachings of the Church.”
Friday’s sessions focused on ethical foundations and leadership formation while Saturday addressed workforce changes caused by AI along with broader economic topics affecting public life. Presentations covered issues such as human dignity, moral agency in decision-making processes involving AI systems, labor market effects from automation trends driven by technological advancements like machine learning algorithms or robotics integration into various industries worldwide; democratic participation amidst digital transformation efforts within governments globally; developing future-ready leaders equipped both intellectually (with knowledge about current developments) spiritually (through reflection upon faith-based principles).
Mario J. Paredes—president of International Academy of Catholic Leaders—spoke about higher education’s role: “key role of Catholic universities such as Seton Hall in exposing students to social doctrine Church essential component leadership all areas society.” He added that “artificial intelligence should be seen as a tool to develop human intelligence human empathy human decision-making.”
Patrick R. Manning Ph.D., director Center for Catholic Studies remarked: “The seminar was a beautiful event born collaboration numerous university external partners,” he said.“The conversations occurred over these two days about values our human needs capacities are badly needed this new technology continues impact our lives.”
The gathering ended with a Vigil Mass at Chapel Immaculate Conception highlighting combination intellectual inquiry professional formation spiritual reflection.
For further details about presenters or session topics from this seminar visit Seton Hall University’s website or contact Center for Catholic Studies.
