Chris Dede Talk and Prize

In a video message to HaS participants, Chris Dede thanked the teams for the time, energy and effort they put into work that speaks to some of the most important problems the world faces today. He said that together they are “casting an important light on the strengths and the limits of AI, particularly generative and agentic AI,” and that their insights “are going to lift the quality of dialogue in the entire field.” He also thanked the organizers and recalled being struck by what “an innovative and powerful idea” Hackastone was when he was first contacted. He was delighted that the first year was so productive and hoped the movement will “thrive and grow,” calling it “a major contribution to the field.” He said he felt “honored and humbled” that the cup was named after his work, since he has tried to do the kind of research the participants are now doing, and thanked everyone for letting him be part of the celebration.