Penn Student Wins $10,000 Grant for AI Innovation in Accessible Gaming

Published on May 10, 2026

Crystal Yang, a University of Pennsylvania student, began her journey in high school while playing the popular online game Wordle. Her love for the game contrasted sharply with her friend’s inability to participate due to blindness. This realization sparked Yang’s dedication to making gaming accessible for all.

Collaborating with researchers at Texas A&M University, Yang founded Audemy, a nonprofit focused on creating audio-compatible games for blind and visually impaired players. The initiative has already produced over 50 innovative games. Currently, Yang is working on a revolutionary gaming console that will enhance accessibility without requiring Wi-Fi.

Yang’s work incorporates AI to streamline various tasks, from user research to design processes. With AI’s assistance, she has optimized her coding efforts and refined her project management skills. “It’s been a very helpful tool throughout,” shares Yang, highlighting the AI’s role in amplifying her capabilities.

Recently, Yang was awarded a $10,000 grant from OpenAI as part of the ChatGPT Futures program, which recognizes young innovators leveraging AI for positive change. This recognition emphasizes a broader trend among students who are now using AI technologies to tackle challenges that once seemed insurmountable.

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