Dartmouth provost steps down after review cites AI use in writing

HANOVER, N.H. (WCAX) - Santiago Schnell, the provost at Dartmouth College, has resigned from his position. He stepped down Wednesday after a faculty-led committee determined that he used artificial intelligence to meaningfully change his writing in at least one academic publication. The committee also found that Schnell was not fully transparent about the extent of his AI use.

President Sian Leah Beilock confirmed Schnell’s departure in a statement to the campus community on Wednesday. The committee concluded that his conduct likely violated the college’s code of conduct. Beilock stated that she expects senior leaders to adhere to the highest standards. She noted that Schnell made the decision to resign out of respect for his colleagues and the institution.

The resignation follows a period of student and faculty unrest. Scores of community members signed a letter addressed to the Dartmouth Board of Trustees, asking for Schnell to be removed from his role as provost. Ben Stevenson, a senior at the college, commented on the outcome. He said the decision shows that students and faculty need to continue advocating for academic integrity and the school's educational mission.

Schnell had previously explained that he used AI only to refine his work, not to generate it. That response prompted a campus petition calling for his removal. He later wrote an op-ed in the student newspaper, The Dartmouth. In the piece, he apologized for not disclosing his use of AI and stated that he must hold himself to the highest standard.

The timing of the departure coincides with a campus event focused on technology. Beilock noted that Dartmouth is hosting the conference, AI at 70: What Must Remain Human? The event marks 70 years since researchers at a summer workshop on campus launched the field of artificial intelligence. Beilock said the conference will bring together thinkers who support AI’s potential and those who question how the technology is used.

In her statement, Beilock emphasized the need for dialogue and debate as the community establishes shared norms for AI. She described this process as essential for addressing major challenges. Matthew Delmont will serve as the interim provost. He is currently a history professor and associate dean of faculty for international and interdisciplinary studies.