The field of artificial intelligence is moving towards a more human-centered approach, with a focus on designing AI systems that prioritize human relationships, empathy, and values. Researchers are exploring ways to leverage AI to facilitate human connection, rather than replacing or obscuring it. This shift is driven by the need to address the risks and challenges associated with AI, such as empathy fog, misinformation, and job displacement. Noteworthy papers in this area include: Toward Needs-Conscious Design, which introduces a human-centered framework for AI-mediated communication, and The AI Risk Spectrum, which maps the full spectrum of AI risks, from current harms to existential threats. These papers demonstrate the potential of AI to enhance human collaboration, improve learning outcomes, and promote AI literacy, while also highlighting the need for responsible AI development and deployment.