Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Northeastern University used an artificial intelligence program to read out names at graduation ceremonies this year, drawing some mixed reactions.
The school used the AI system Tassel, which is specifically made for all things graduation. More and more schools are using the chatbot, especially for its name pronunciation technology.
Some students have fought against the tech. A petition created by a student at West Chester University received over 1,000 signatures to oppose Tassel being used at graduation.
Students at Northeastern have mixed feelings about the tech, like Sophia, a second year psychology and criminal justice major.
“It’s a little sad, because you lose the personal aspect, especially if you work four years to get your degree,” Sophia said.
Others don’t seem to mind, seeing how the tech can help faculty.
“My name’s kind of hard to pronounce …There are harder names to pronounce — it’s basic human error. If AI can help minimize that, that’s a good thing,” said Kiera, a Northeastern student.
“I honestly have no issue with AI. That’s me personally though — I know some people who do have a problem,” said Luke, another Northeastern student.
In a statement to WBZ NewsRadio, Tassel CEO Chase Rigby said the company’s surveys show over half of college students report having their names mispronounced.
“At a school like Northeastern, where more than 35% of the student body are international students, having humans read all 15,000 names isn’t just expensive and time-consuming — it almost guarantees mistakes,” Rigby said.
Graduating students hear how their name will be said by Tassel before the ceremony, and they have a chance to give feedback if it’s wrong. He also said Tassel uses broadcast-quality recordings that are “indistinguishable” from professional voice artists.
Rigby said most of the criticism comes from "students whose names are more familiar to American readers — often simpler Anglo names."
“It might seem impersonal on the surface, but in reality, it’s the most thoughtful and consistent way to make sure every student gets recognized,” Rigby said.
WBZ’s James Rojas (@JamesRojas.bsky.social) reports.