Antonio “Tone” Talley
Research Assistant – Social Media Manager
Center for Augmenting Intelligence (CAI)
Business Administration — Junior
Antonio “Tone” Talley is a junior Business Administration student at the University of Detroit Mercy who brings a practical and grounded perspective to the world of artificial intelligence. As a Research Assistant and Social Media Manager at the Center for Augmenting Intelligence (CAI), Tone is focused on helping others understand AI for what it truly is: a tool to improve thinking, not replace it. His approach blends curiosity, communication, and authenticity, allowing him to contribute both to research efforts and to broader conversations around responsible AI use.
How He Got Involved
Tone’s interest in CAI came from his own experience using AI and noticing a common issue: people often misunderstand how to use it effectively. Instead of using AI to support their thinking, many rely on it to do the thinking for them. That realization pushed him to get involved and help shift that mindset.
He first heard about CAI through Dr. Olla and Latifa during a breath research and quickly saw it as an opportunity to share his perspective with a wider audience. From the beginning, his goal was clear: help people understand that AI is a tool, not a substitute for knowledge or critical thinking.
“Looking for answers, you must use it to help you create the answer,” he explains.
Projects & Contributions
At CAI, Tone has been working as a research assistant in breath studies. His primary role has been participant engagement and recruiting individuals to take part in the studies, and guiding them through the process.
In addition to research, Tone contributes to social media, where he helps communicate CAI’s mission and educate others about AI. Through content creation and messaging, he focuses on breaking down complex ideas into simple, relatable insights.
Skills & Learning
Through his experience at CAI, Tone has developed strong leadership and communication skills. From guiding participants during research studies to educating audiences online, he has learned how to lead with clarity and connect with people in meaningful ways.
His role has also helped him better understand how to navigate both the technical and human sides of AI, and balance knowledge with responsibility. These experiences have strengthened his ability to take initiative, adapt, and communicate effectively in different environments.
Personal Reflection
CAI has had a significant impact on how Tone approaches both his career and personal growth. One of the biggest takeaways from his experience has been the importance of staying authentic.
“CAI has shaped me to do more things that are me,” he says. “That’s usually where I’ve found my greatest success, just being myself and trying to help out.”
This mindset has influenced how he interacts with others, approaches opportunities, and thinks about his future. Rather than trying to fit into a mold, he focuses on building from his strengths and staying true to who he is.
Student Quote
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” — Carl Jung
Advice to Other Students
Tone keeps his advice simple and direct:
“Do it. AI can only expand your mind, but once you rely on it, AI becomes your mind.”
His message highlights both the potential and the responsibility that comes with using AI. He encourages students to explore it, but to do so with intention and awareness.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, Tone is excited to dive into trading and continue building his own content platforms. He sees CAI as a foundation for these future goals, particularly in learning how to structure and grow ideas into something sustainable.
The experience he’s gaining now is helping him build a strong base for his future in business. As he continues to grow, his focus remains the same: use tools like AI to improve his thinking, not replace it, and help others do the same.
For media inquiries or interviews, please contact the CAI Communications Team via the Contact Page.
