OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Futures Program for Class of 2026
OpenAI has announced the inaugural ChatGPT Futures Class of 2026, recognizing 26 students and young builders who use AI in thoughtful and ambitious ways. The program celebrates the first generation to start and finish college with ChatGPT, having arrived on campus in fall 2022 as AI began reshaping learning and work. Honorees come from over 20 universities including Vanderbilt, University of Toronto, Oxford, and Georgia Tech. Each receives a $10,000 grant and access to OpenAI's frontier models. The initiative aims to highlight young people who use AI to build study tools, translate mental health resources, advance scientific research, and design accessibility tools. OpenAI emphasizes that AI amplifies human ambition rather than replacing it, and that education must foster adaptable thinkers and builders. The program is part of OpenAI's broader support for educators through ChatGPTEdu, 100 chats for Students, Study Mode, and partnerships with organizations like the American Federation for Teachers.
Key facts
- ChatGPT Futures Class of 2026 includes 26 students and young builders.
- Honorees represent over 20 universities including Vanderbilt, University of Toronto, Oxford, and Georgia Tech.
- Each honoree receives a $10,000 grant and access to frontier models.
- The class of 2026 is the first generation to start and finish college with ChatGPT.
- Students arrived on campus in fall 2022 as AI began reshaping learning and work.
- Kyle Scenna, a 24-year-old from University of Waterloo, is an honoree.
- Michelle Lawson, a 20-year-old at Smith College, is an honoree.
- Nolan Windham, a 23-year-old Head of AI at a hedge fund, is an honoree.
Entities
Artists
- Kyle Scenna
- Michelle Lawson
- Nolan Windham
Institutions
- OpenAI
- Vanderbilt University
- University of Toronto
- University of Oxford
- Georgia Tech
- University of Waterloo
- Smith College
- American Federation for Teachers