Policy
Connecticut College System Receives AI-Generated Report from Ex-Chancellor
Terrence Cheng submitted a 2,000-page advisory document that analysis suggests was at least 80 percent written by artificial intelligence.
Key takeaways
- NBC Connecticut's analysis found at least 80 percent of Terrence Cheng's 2,000-page CSCU advisory report was AI-generated.
- Cheng received his full $442,000 annual salary for the temporary advisory role that produced the report.
- The CSCU system acknowledged Cheng used AI to aggregate data and generate state-by-state analyses.
- Cheng's chancellor tenure was marked by consolidation controversies and spending scandals that triggered a state audit.
- The case raises questions about disclosure and value standards for AI use in high-paid public sector advisory work.
Former Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Chancellor Terrence Cheng submitted a 2,000-page advisory report to the system that appears to have been predominantly written by artificial intelligence, according to an analysis by NBC Connecticut.
Using two AI detection tools—ChatGPT and GPT Zero—the news organization concluded that at least 80 percent of the report was AI-generated content. The document, which Cheng developed in his capacity as a special adviser to the CSCU system, offered recommendations including a renewed emphasis on workforce development.
The advisory role and compensation
The Board of Regents created the temporary advisory position for Cheng in April 2025 when they declined to renew his contract as chancellor. The role pays his full annual salary of $442,000 and was set to conclude at the end of June 2026.
System spokesperson Sam Norton confirmed to NBC Connecticut that Cheng acknowledged using AI in his research process. Norton stated that Cheng was "transparent about using artificial intelligence as a tool to aggregate and synthesize large volumes of data, generate individual analyses for all 50 states, and assist with copy-editing the lengthy document."
The spokesperson emphasized that "as with any tool, Mr. Cheng was responsible for validating the underlying research and content."
Why it matters
The incident highlights emerging questions about appropriate AI use in high-level institutional work, particularly when substantial public funds are involved. For a role paying nearly half a million dollars annually, the revelation that the primary deliverable was largely AI-generated raises questions about value, accountability, and disclosure standards for senior advisory positions in public higher education systems.
Context of Cheng's tenure
Cheng's time as chancellor was marked by significant controversy. His leadership included a contentious consolidation process and navigation of state budget challenges. He also faced criticism for lavish spending on meals and chauffeured rides to his home in New York, expenses for which he later apologized.
These criticisms prompted Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont to call for a state audit in 2024, adding to the scrutiny of Cheng's leadership.
The details were first reported by NBC Connecticut and Inside Higher Ed.
