Where AI Meets Community: GEAR UP NJCU And Girlz Love Tech: First Annual Hackathon Summit
On November 15, 2025, the New Jersey City University GEAR UP Pre-College Program, in partnership with the Girlz Love Tech nonprofit organization, hosted its first annual AI Hackathon Summit at NJCU. The one-day event brought together over 150 students for an immersive, hands-on learning experience centered on artificial intelligence, innovation, and community impact.
The summit featured a distinguished panel of Microsoft executives and community leaders who discussed various career pathways in technology and the critical role tech plays in shaping and supporting local communities. Senator Angela McKnight served as an honored guest and panelist, offering insights on leadership, public service, and the importance of equitable access to technology education.
Following the panel discussion, students broke out into grade-level cohorts and began designing AI prototypes using Microsoft tools. Each team was challenged to create an AI-powered “universe” that identified a real-world issue affecting their community, particularly in the areas of wellness, hygiene, or mental health, and proposed innovative AI-driven solutions to address those challenges.
Throughout the day, students collaborated in small teams to plan, design, and communicate their ideas, strengthening their creativity, problem-solving, and presentation skills while aligning with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS). At the conclusion of the prototype session, three selected groups presented their projects in front of peers, volunteers, and judges. The judging panel was comprised of Microsoft executives and community leaders.
The award for the most creative and impactful project was presented to a 10th-grade team that designed a fruit and vegetable cleaning device that removes harmful chemicals and pesticides, promoting healthier and more nutritious food options. As a reward, the winning team will participate in an upcoming trip to Microsoft.
In addition to the competition, 150 hygiene kits were distributed to students in attendance, reinforcing the event’s focus on student wellness and community care.
Overall, the AI Hackathon Summit served as a transformative experience that empowered students to move beyond being consumers of technology and become creators of innovative solutions. Through hands-on engagement with artificial intelligence, meaningful mentorship, and real-world problem solving, students gained not only technical skills but also confidence, critical thinking abilities, and a clearer vision of future career possibilities in technology. Most importantly, students were able to see how they can be true change agents in their communities and beyond.