Fisk University releases report on academic benefits of proposed campus data center
Fisk University faculty released a report touting the academic benefits of a proposed data center on its Nashville campus, which includes AI and cybersecurity training opportunities. The project continues to face strong opposition from students, alumni, and community members. The report also addresses environmental and power concerns, stating new cooling technology would recirculate water and commercial arrangements with NES and TVA would prevent increased rates for neighbors.
Fisk University faculty have issued a report detailing the academic advantages of a proposed data center on the institution's historic Nashville campus. This facility is part of the university's $1 billion "Quantum Leap" initiative and includes plans for a 30,000-square-foot educational center and a 70,000-square-foot, 30-megawatt data center, offering students internships and employment in AI, data science, and cybersecurity.
However, the project faces strong and ongoing opposition from Fisk students, alumni, and local community members who have voiced an "absolute and unwavering no" to the proposal. Concerns center on potential environmental impacts and energy consumption.
The faculty report addresses these issues, stating that new cooling technology would recirculate water and the building design would reduce noise. It also asserts that separate commercial power arrangements with NES and TVA would prevent increased utility rates or reduced energy access for neighbors. Fisk University President Dr. Agenia Walker Clark has reiterated the university's commitment to avoiding environmental harm and negative impacts on the community.