Old Dominion University (ODU) and Google Public Sector have announced the launch of MonarchSphere, a first-of-its-kind AI incubator designed to embed artificial intelligence across every dimension of university research, teaching, and operations. The multi-year initiative, powered by Google Cloud, aims to establish ODU as a national model for AI-powered innovation and smart campus transformation.
Unveiled during the Google Public Sector Summit 2025, MonarchSphere will serve as ODU’s central innovation hub, connecting academic, research, and operational systems through a unified digital intelligence framework. Leveraging Google Cloud’s AI portfolio—including Vertex AI, Gemini models, and agentic AI services—the initiative seeks to accelerate discovery, personalize education, and strengthen career readiness.
For Old Dominion University, the program represents a pivotal step in transforming how students and faculty engage with emerging technologies. MonarchSphere will facilitate the development of new credentialing programs and provide students with pathways to hands-on experience in AI-driven research and workforce applications.
Through MonarchSphere, ODU researchers gain access to advanced cloud computing infrastructure that substantially reduces the time required for complex projects. Tasks such as genomic AI research, which previously required several weeks on-premises, can now be completed in just a few days using Google Cloud—accelerating innovation in areas like health sciences, coastal resilience, and cybersecurity.
The initiative also places ODU among the early participants in the Google AI for Education Accelerator, giving students and educators access to AI-focused career training and Google Career Certificates. This partnership transforms isolated AI learning programs into an institution-wide framework that builds fluency across disciplines.
Additionally, ODU and Google Cloud are enhancing student success through the use of data-driven learning tools. Using AI-powered course and career mapping, students can align academic choices with professional goals. The collaboration is also developing an AI-enabled transcript evaluation tool to streamline advising, as well as piloting Google Colab Enterprise to provide students with access to GPUs for deep learning projects.
Course development has also been enhanced through the use of Gemini Pro and Notebook LM, which allow faculty and instructional designers to create materials in minutes. An AI course assistant tool under development will provide personalized, real-time support for both online and in-class learning, enhancing instructional quality while allowing faculty to focus on creativity and engagement.
Beyond campus, MonarchSphere is designed to extend its benefits to local communities across Virginia. The incubator will enable small businesses and municipalities to apply AI-driven solutions for operational efficiency, helping entities that might not otherwise have the means to implement advanced systems. This aligns with ODU’s mission as a public R1 university to foster innovation and support regional economic development.
KEY QUOTES:
“This partnership with Google Public Sector marks a defining moment for Old Dominion University — demonstrating how a forward-focused, future-ready institution can harness the power of cloud and AI to reimagine learning, accelerate discovery, and expand opportunity for students and communities across higher education and beyond.”
Dr. Brian O. Hemphill, President, Old Dominion University
“By partnering with Old Dominion University, we are creating a new model for innovation at every level — from research, to student learning, to operations. ODU’s commitment to creating an integrated approach to AI innovation will help cultivate the next generation of leaders. By empowering students, researchers, and educators to foster a culture of innovation, this incubator will benefit the ODU community and serve as a model for institutions nationwide.”
Brent Mitchell, Vice President, Go-to-Market, Google Public Sector
“We’ve already seen tremendous success in integrating Google Cloud technology across our institution. We’re focused on creating a truly integrated ecosystem where students, researchers, and faculty can harness the power of AI to solve real-world problems and build a more dynamic, responsive learning environment. We’ve moved beyond a one-size-fits-all model to create a personalized experience that equips everyone with the skills to thrive in the modern workforce.”
Dr. Chrysoula Malogianni, Associate Vice President of Innovation, Old Dominion University
