TLDR: Ragan Communications has launched its new Center for AI Strategy (CAIS), a dedicated initiative designed to help communication professionals navigate and lead in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. The center emphasizes a human-centric approach, offering a peer-to-peer network, expert advisors, and curated resources to foster confident and strategic AI adoption in the communications field.
Ragan Communications, a leading voice in the communications industry, has officially launched its groundbreaking Center for AI Strategy (CAIS), marking a significant step towards integrating artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively into the world of public relations and corporate communications. Announced on July 23, 2025, the center aims to demystify AI for communicators and empower them to leverage its transformative power while keeping human insight at the core.
The CAIS is envisioned as a vital hub where curiosity meets action, and strategy aligns with innovation. It is built on the fundamental belief that ‘people will lead the AI revolution,’ as stated by Diane Schwartz, CEO of Ragan Communications. Schwartz further elaborated that the center is ‘dedicated to helping humans think smartly about how AI can change the way we work,’ ensuring communicators are not merely adapting to AI but actively leading its integration.
At the heart of the CAIS is a unique peer-to-peer network, supported by a distinguished ‘AI Brain Trust’ comprising 19 advisors and AI experts from diverse fields including tech, PR, corporate, government, and social media. These advisors will facilitate peer-to-peer meetings, offer direct counsel, and provide insights through cohorts and one-on-one office hours. Members will benefit from small virtual cohorts, deep dives into case studies, and in-person meetups, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange.
Membership in the Center for AI Strategy grants exclusive access to a wealth of resources, including upskilling events, expert-vetted use cases, vendor reviews, ethical guidelines, and practical playbooks such as ‘How to Build an AI Playbook to Empower Your Comms Shop.’ Additionally, members receive a ticket to Ragan’s AI Horizons Conference, further enhancing their learning and networking opportunities. The first member call for peer-to-peer knowledge exchange is scheduled for September 8.
Beyond resources, the CAIS offers a ‘Concierge Service’ providing personalized support, connecting members with relevant advisors and network contacts to address specific AI challenges. The center also places a strong emphasis on risk mitigation and brand protection, guiding communicators on how to balance innovation with responsibility, particularly concerning data usage, ownership, and compliance with privacy laws.
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Ragan’s initiative comes at a time when AI’s impact on communications is rapidly accelerating. Recent industry reports, such as the Cision and PRWeek 2025 Comms Report, indicate that nearly two-thirds (65%) of comms leaders report AI significantly enhancing their data and analytics capabilities, with 90% stating it plays a role in their overall strategy. The CAIS aims to ensure that communicators are well-equipped to navigate these shifts, streamline workflows, elevate storytelling, and reimagine audience engagement, ultimately positioning themselves for greater leadership opportunities in the future.
