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Transform your approach to ethical AI design and community well-being with Desmond U. Patton, speaker, Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor.

Trusted by SAFELab, University of Pennsylvania, Penn School of Social Policy & Practice

Desmond Patton
Desmond Patton

Desmond Patton

Philadelphia, United States

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Desmond Patton

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Philadelphia, United States

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Desmond Patton's biography

At a glance

  • Pioneer in ethical AI design
  • Authority on social media and empathy
  • Founding director of SAFELab at Penn

Desmond U. Patton is a pioneering social scientist and social worker whose work focuses on the ethical design of artificial intelligence and its impact on diverse communities. His innovative frameworks have garnered attention for promoting well-being within organisational cultures and fostering healthy social media ecosystems. As a widely cited authority in his field, Desmond's insights into the intersections of empathy, race, and society are invaluable for understanding contemporary social dynamics.


Desmond's journey has been marked by a commitment to equity and social justice. He has faced various challenges in advocating for underrepresented communities, striving to ensure that technological advancements benefit all members of society. His dedication to these principles has not gone unnoticed; in 2022, he was honoured as one of the Top 50 in Digital Health, recognising his significant contributions to the field.


Currently, Desmond holds the position of Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. In this role, he serves as the founding director of SAFELab, where he leads initiatives aimed at harnessing technology for social good. Additionally, he is the chief strategy officer at the Penn School of Social Policy & Practice, where he continues to influence policy and practice in social work and technology.


Desmond's work is essential for anyone interested in the ethical implications of technology in society. His research not only addresses pressing social issues but also provides practical solutions for creating inclusive environments. Through his leadership and advocacy, he is shaping the future of social science and technology, making his insights particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving landscape.

Why we recommend booking Desmond

Book Desmond U. Patton to gain critical insights into the ethical design of AI, digital equity, and the impact of technology on diverse communities. His expertise in fostering inclusive organisational cultures and shaping ethical tech policies makes his perspective invaluable for forward-thinking businesses.

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Trusted by SAFELab, University of Pennsylvania, Penn School of Social Policy & Practice

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Desmond Patton for my next event?

Email desmond.patton@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Desmond's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Desmond Patton's speaking style like?

Desmond Patton draws on his social science research and work through SAFELab to frame discussions around ethical AI design, using case-based analysis of how technology intersects with race, empathy, and community well-being to ground his sessions in evidence from underrepresented populations.

What topics does Desmond Patton specialise in?

Desmond Patton's sessions address the ethical design of artificial intelligence, the impact of technology on diverse communities, and the role of empathy and race in shaping social media ecosystems. He is Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and founding director of SAFELab, where he leads research on harnessing technology for social good.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

No. PepTalk adds no booking fee, so you pay the speaker's fee and nothing beyond it. The service, from shortlist through to contracts and event-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, PepTalk can agree preferential rates with your procurement team.

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Share your event date, audience, format, objectives and budget, and PepTalk sends a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours. Each suggestion comes with a profile, a fee and a recommendation on the strongest fit. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, travel and logistics through to event day.

What does the typical fee range mean?

The typical fee range is the speaker's standard in-person fee in their home market, shown in their local currency. It moves with format, location, date and session length: virtual sessions and shorter slots usually cost less, while international travel and peak dates cost more. Send your brief to PepTalk and the team will confirm the exact fee in your currency.

Have all the speakers on the website worked with PepTalk before?

Not all of them, and it makes no difference to your booking. PepTalk's network of 15,000+ speakers covers talent the team works with directly alongside speakers represented by agents and agencies worldwide. PepTalk approaches the speaker, negotiates the fee and handles contracting either way.

How far in advance should I book a speaker?

Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.