Press August 12, 2025
The Social Institute on NBC News Now: Teens & A.I. Companions
Laura Tierney, Founder and CEO of The Social Institute, shared tips on how to help students navigate A.I. companions in smart, healthy ways. Watch now >>
Press August 8, 2025
Laura Tierney Provides Insight on A.I. Deepfakes to NEA
“One photo posted online is all that’s needed to create a deepfake,” Laura Tierney, founder and CEO of The Social Institute, advises as she discussed A.I. deepfakes with NEA. It’s more important than ever to empower students to navigate A.I. in high-character ways. Read more >>
Press August 8, 2025
Parents, Social Media Experts Weigh in on New Bill Restricting Phones in NC Classrooms
The Social Institute weighs in on new legislation that restricts phone use in North Carolina’s public schools and requires schools to teach social media literacy to students. That bill, HB 959, was passed last month and signed into law by Governor Josh Stein on July 1st. It takes effect at the beginning of 2026. Learn more >>
Blog August 7, 2025
A.I. & Identity: How A.I. is impacting students’ self-image, relationships, and online searches
A.I. models have reached Vogue, and are sparking concerns about beauty standards. Teens are using A.I. not just for schoolwork, but for advice and companionship. And ChatGPT is now seeing around 2.5 billion prompts a day, highlighting a big shift in how students are finding answers online. The question that remains now: How can educators help students navigate all this and more? Dive in!
Blog July 28, 2025
Back-to-School Reading for Educators, Students, and Families in 2025
With rapid advancements in A.I., constantly shifting social trends, and students taking a more intentional approach to screen time, 2025 is shaping up to be an impactful year for students, educators, and families alike. To help everyone start the school year informed and inspired, we’ve curated a back-to-school reading list filled with thought-provoking books that spark meaningful conversations.