Welcome to the Center for Data Ethics 

Advancing research, education, and collaboration on the ethics of data and AI for human dignity, justice, and the common good.

Grounded in Marquette University’s Jesuit mission and commitment to social justice, the Center for Data Ethics advances research, teaching, and engagement on the ethical challenges of data- and AI-driven societies. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical discernment, the Center brings together scholars, students, and community partners to consider how data and AI can be developed and used in ways that promote human dignity, justice, and the common good. The Center is directed by Dr. Michael Zimmer.

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Discerning AI: Ethical Discernment for AI at Marquette

Discerning AI brings together faculty, staff, students, and community partners to explore how Jesuit discernment can guide thoughtful, ethical engagement with artificial intelligence.
Learn moreNew report: Conversations on Discerning AI at Marquette
Drawing on conversations with 25 faculty and staff in summer 2026, this report identifies shared concerns and opportunities for a coordinated, mission-driven approach to AI across the university.

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Recent News

Centering Ethics in a Data-Driven World

Read the recent Q&A in Marquette Today with Dr. Zimmer about how the Center for Data Ethics connects research, teaching, and community engagement to advance ethical approaches to data and AI grounded in Marquette’s Jesuit mission.

An evening with Dr. Alex Hanna, "The AI Con"

The Center for Data Ethics welcomed Dr. Alex Hanna, co-author of The AI Con: How to Fight Big Tech's Hype and Create the Future We Want, for a book talk event on October 6, 2025 at Boswell Books.

Student Spotlight: Marely Rivera

Marely Rivera earned third place in the undergraduate research competition at the SIGCSE 2025 Technical Symposium for her analysis of data science curricula. Read about her experience – and those of other students supported by the Center for Data Ethics – here.