As generative AI tools continue to reshape possibilities across higher education, institutions must explore a spectrum of thoughtful, practical strategies that meet both their culture and operational goals. This panel brings together leaders from Wesleyan and Colgate to share three complementary case studies of how AI is being deployed to enhance administrative operations, campus support, and technical infrastructure. From empowering staff to experiment with AI tools, to introducing automated support in a high-touch environment, to building custom in-house solutions, this session offers a multi-dimensional look at how AI adoption can align with institutional values while paving the way for innovation. Rachel Schnepper will share how Wesleyan University launched an AI Staff Ambassador Program that trains administrative staff to explore efficiencies using generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Karen Warren will follow with Wesleyan’s experience rolling out a ServiceNow chatbot to support the Workday transition, balancing automation with the personal touch their campus expects. Ahmad Khazaee and Tolga Dincer from Colgate University will conclude by showcasing their journey in developing and deploying custom, private AI tools on campus, including applications in research support, creative technologies, and systems automation. Together, these presentations demonstrate how institutions can creatively and responsibly adopt AI in ways that match their missions and needs. Attendees will walk away with models for staff empowerment, strategies for scalable support, and inspiration for building in-house solutions that respect data privacy while enabling cutting-edge exploration. Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or already deploying tools, this session offers grounded insights to spark your next move.
Leadership in IT increasingly means voicing ethical principles to our institutions as the custodians of technology. This talk addresses that responsibility.
