(Office of the First Lady Press Release, January 16, 2026)
First Lady Melania Trump advanced her mission to improve America’s children’s understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) today. Her goal to empower the next generation with AI and education reached thousands of schools nationwide, in partnership with Zoom Communications.
America’s First Lady inspired participants, “The Age of Imagination is a new era, powered by artificial intelligence, where one’s curiosity can be satisfied almost magically, in seconds.”
The First Lady also emphasized that curiosity optimizes AI use, “History reminds us that curiosity is the driving force behind every great achievement. The world’s greatest minds – our writers, architects, scientists, and painters – all had endless interest about human nature, and they all questioned that which was yet to be answered.”
Zoom’s CEO & Founder Eric Yuan, a clear leader in the TechEd space, stressed the need for AI safety, “AI is changing how we learn, work, and connect every day. That’s why it’s so important to help students and educators build AI literacy and feel confident using these tools in thoughtful, creative, and ethical ways.”
Mrs. Trump concluded, “Although artificial intelligence can generate images and information, only humans can generate meaning and purpose. Choose to let your imagination drive your intellectual progress. But never use AI as a quick solution. Be intellectually honest with yourself – use AI as a tool – but do not let it replace your personal intelligence.”
Mrs. Trump called on the international community to join her mission to empower children with technology and education during the 2025 United Nations General Assembly. The First Lady, Melania Trump, will be hosting the inaugural meeting of Fostering the Future Together at the White House this spring.
