THE PLEXUSS PRESIDENTIAL PODCAST SERIES

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Pano Kanelos - who has an extensive background in higher education and is the founding president of the University of Austin, and now a founding partner of the Athos group - to discuss the impact of AI, the future workforce, and the challenges facing higher education.Dr. Kanelos explains the founding of the University of Austin (UATX) and the creation of the AOS group, which supports new institutions with strategic planning and accreditation. He highlights UATX's tuition-free model for its inaugural classes and outlines how the institution is designed to rethink traditional higher-ed structures.The discussion centers on Dr. Kanelos's view that universities are “radically unprepared” for the disruption AI is creating, as traditional knowledge-economy education becomes increasingly obsolete. He argues that the current accreditation system is a major barrier to innovation. As solutions, Dr. Kanelos proposes creating a new global accreditor focused on innovation, reducing the bachelor's degree to three years to lower costs, and emphasizing the value of a liberal arts education—preparing students to “outthink the machines” by strengthening the mind.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Catherine Wehlburg, President of Athens State University, to discuss the university's focus on upper-division courses and transfer students, emphasizing accessible education for adult learners and career-connected programs. Dr. Wehlburg shares her background in higher education administration and explains how Athens State integrates AI literacy into its curriculum to prepare students for workforce changes and promote lifelong learning through a “50-year curriculum.” Together, Dr. JP Novin and Dr. Wehlburg highlight the university's AI initiatives, including a new certificate program and specialized courses, and discuss how Athens State continuously updates its academic offerings through industry partnerships and advisory boards to stay aligned with evolving workforce needs and regulations.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System, to the Higher Education Leader Podcast to discuss the impact of AI on education and the workforce. Nuno Fernandes explains how APUS prepares students for AI integration through its “APUS Signature Skills” initiative and by promoting transparent AI use in the classroom. The conversation also explores AI's role in university operations, including a 24/7 mental health app and automated transfer credit evaluations, emphasizing that AI should enhance quality and reduce costs in education.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Stephen Spinelli, President of Babson College, to discuss Babson's entrepreneurial focus and the integration of AI into its educational model. Dr. Spinelli highlights Babson's unique experiential learning approach, where students start businesses in their first week and are prepared for continuous learning through customized career roadmaps. He emphasizes how AI enhances efficiency and scalability in ventures. The conversation also explores the impact of AI on various professions, the need for higher education to evolve into a “cradle-to-grave” partnership for lifelong learning, and the importance of K–12 education in fostering critical thinking.

JP Novin welcomes Dr. Fernando Delgado, President of Lehman College, who highlights the college's mission to promote social mobility in the Bronx as a Hispanic Serving and Minority Serving Institution. President Delgado discusses the challenges of the "digital divide" in the Bronx, which impede AI integration, and emphasizes the need for students to master AI tools for future workforces while navigating risks and compliance. He outlines Lehman College's AI initiatives, focusing on professional development for faculty and staff, and stresses the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and "soft skills" from the humanities and social sciences for future academic programs.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Brian Bruess, President of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, to the Plexuss Higher Education Leadership Podcast. Dr. Bruess shares how he is leading two long-standing partner institutions through bold transformation under a strong integration model. The discussion covers unifying governance and operations, restructuring around student learning, and launching a shared strategic plan. Dr. Bruess also reflects on the importance of adaptability, experiential learning, and sustainability as higher education embraces AI and prepares students for the future workforce.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Jeremy Singer, President of the College Board, to Episode 29 of Season 3 of the Plexuss Presidential Podcast. They discuss the College Board's 125-year evolution and how it leverages technology to improve student outcomes. Jeremy highlights AI's growing impact on education and the workforce, noting an “authenticity crisis” in assessments due to AI and grade inflation, which led to the creation of Bluebook for standardized exams. The conversation also explores test-optional versus test-blind policies, the need to upskill the workforce for an AI-driven world, and the value of higher education, with Jeremy emphasizing the importance of colleges rethinking their cost structures.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University, to discuss how entrepreneurial leadership can redefine higher education. Under Dr. Houshmand's direction, Rowan has doubled its enrollment and become one of the fastest-growing public research universities in the country—now home to three medical schools.Dr. Houshmand shares how his background in engineering and his commitment to access, affordability, and innovation shape Rowan's approach to serving students and driving economic growth. The conversation explores how universities can embrace entrepreneurial thinking to build sustainable futures for both their students and communities.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes President Bryon Grigsby, who discusses Moravian University's rich history, its commitment to access and inclusion, and how it prepares students for careers in health sciences, computer science, and business. President Grigsby highlights AI's transformative impact on the workforce, emphasizing the need for colleges to equip all students with AI skills and integrate them across the curriculum as a critical transferable skill. Their conversation explores professions most at risk due to AI, the potential renaissance of the humanities through digital applications, and the evolving nature of learning artifacts—all centered on human empathy and the importance of transferable skills in a rapidly changing job market.

Dr. JP Novin introduces Dr. Roger J. Best, the 16th president of the University of Central Missouri (UCM). Dr. Best provides an overview of UCM's growth and diverse programs, emphasizing its role in serving first-generation college students. The discussion focuses on AI's dramatic impact on the workforce, distinguishing between job displacement and augmentation. Dr. Best highlights UCM's proactive approach to integrating AI into strategic planning and curriculum development to prepare students for an uncertain future. They also address challenges in workforce upskilling, the evolving value of college education, the future of legal professions, and difficulties in AI regulation, while anticipating shifts in degree granting and the overall student experience.

Dr. JP Novin and Dr. Colleen Perry Keith discuss Goldey-Beacom College's adaptation to workforce needs, emphasizing the integration of AI into the curriculum and the development of workforce training certificates, particularly at the graduate level. Dr. Keith highlights the college's focus on listening to students, graduates, and employers to offer relevant programs, addressing the impact of AI on various industries, and exploring AI for admissions and recruitment. They also examine Delaware's workforce challenges, the future of degree programs, and the college's evolution toward a corporate-training-oriented institution.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Wesley Fugate to the Higher Education Leader Podcast, where Dr. Fugate shares his untraditional path to becoming president of Wilson College and discusses the college's significant growth and transformation, including its transition to co-education and surpassing pre-pandemic enrollment numbers. He emphasizes AI's impact on the future workforce, urging students to use it responsibly and highlighting how AI frees up time for essential "human touches" in both healthcare and higher education. Dr. Fugate also stresses the importance of a liberal arts education in developing critical thinking and adaptability. Key discussion points include equipping students with foundational technology skills, upskilling the workforce for AI literacy, and strengthening “power skills” such as resiliency and communication in an AI-driven world.

JP Novin welcomes David A. Armstrong, President of St. Thomas University, to discuss the university's remarkable turnaround since 2018, including tripling enrollment, quadrupling on-campus housing, and strengthening its financial position. President Armstrong highlights St. Thomas University's focus on experiential learning and “robot-proofing” students through technological, data, and human literacy. He outlines extensive AI initiatives such as an AI Ethics Task Force and the use of “Tony,” the AI agent for admissions, while emphasizing the continued importance of human skills like critical thinking, communication, and manual trades amidst rapid AI advancement and potential workforce disruption. President Armstrong envisions St. Thomas University growing physically and becoming a leader in the ethical use of AI, preparing students as global citizens through real-world experiences.

JP Novin opens the podcast by introducing Lisa Vollendorf, President of Empire State University, who discusses the university's mission as the innovation arm of the SUNY system, its significant growth, and its role in providing online education. Lisa Vollendorf emphasizes Empire State University's proactive approach to AI readiness, including integrating AI literacy into the curriculum and developing stackable credentials to address the evolving workforce and the digital divide. She also highlights the university's commitment to supporting diverse student populations through flexible online formats, reducing barriers to education, and fostering K–12 collaborations to promote early access to higher learning and AI literacy.

Dr. JP Novin introduces Dr. Rachelle Keck, President of Grand View University, to discuss AI's impact on higher education and the future workforce, highlighting Dr. Keck's journey from attorney to university president. Dr. Keck details Grand View University's historical adaptation and current efforts to integrate AI across all disciplines, fostering curiosity and collaborative intelligence. Key discussion points include AI's transformative role in various industries, the importance of customized education, ethical considerations, and the resurgence of liberal arts in preparing students for an evolving job market.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. Amy Bragg Carey, the 14th president of Friends University, about the university's growth and engagement with AI education. Dr. Carey highlights Friends University's increasing enrollment and efforts to partner with local businesses, noting that AI is rapidly changing many fields and requires equipping students with an understanding of AI tools. They also discuss the ongoing challenges of integrating AI into the curriculum, addressing ethical and security concerns, and preparing for AI's impact on various industries and the broader workforce.

JP Novin speaks with Nora Demleitner, who served as President of St. John's College, about the logical progression from a liberal arts education to law, emphasizing the importance of foundational knowledge and critical analysis. Demleitner is writing a book on criminal justice and AI ethics, raising concerns about AI's impact on entry-level jobs and highlighting the need for higher education to adapt by focusing on foundational knowledge and lifelong learning. She also shares strategies for AI preparedness at St. John's, explores legal barriers and uses of AI in the legal field, and reflects on the challenges facing liberal arts institutions.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. James Lentini, President of Molloy University, about leadership in education, AI, and the future workforce. Dr. Lentini highlights Molloy's history, current enrollment growth, and the university's proactive integration of AI into both administrative and academic functions, including new certificates and courses. Together, Dr. Lentini and Dr. Novin emphasize the importance of ethically controlled AI use across disciplines and industries, and the need for education to prepare students for an AI-driven future while maintaining the crucial human element.

JP Novin and José Marie Griffiths discuss the profound impact of AI on the future workforce, highlighting Dakota State University's comprehensive approach to AI education, including new degrees and the integration of computing across all disciplines.José Marie Griffiths emphasizes preparing students for evolving job roles, addressing ethical considerations, and promoting AI literacy across the population, while also noting challenges in AI regulation and the rapid pace of technological change compared to policy development.

JP Novin introduced Dr. Irma Becerra, President of Marymount University, who shared her extensive background in AI research and discussed how AI is transforming the workforce and education, including Marymount University's new AI degree and minor programs. Dr. Irma Becerra explained the university's "Momentum" strategic plan, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and prepares students for AI's impact across all industries. Jp Novin and Dr. Irma Becerra discussed the societal implications of AI, including job recalibration and the potential for an "intelligence divide," emphasizing the critical role of higher education in preparing individuals for future economic mobility and addressing regulatory challenges.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Jonathan Alger to discuss American University's AI initiatives, including their Applied Artificial Intelligence program, academic AI curriculum, and leadership in ethical AI. Jonathan Alger explains that AI is rapidly transforming the job landscape, requiring universities to prepare students for multiple future careers by emphasizing lifelong learning skills such as intellectual curiosity, creativity, and ethical reasoning. He notes that American University is actively adapting its curriculum to meet the demands of AI's evolution by developing nimble, flexible programs and launching an "AI for Educators" module designed for K–12 teachers. Throughout the conversation, Alger emphasizes the ongoing importance of human judgment and ethical considerations to ensure AI contributes to societal stability rather than undermining democracy.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes President John Loyack, who discusses Rider University's profile and his career transition from corporate to higher education, where he facilitates financial restructuring and growth at other institutions. President Loyack highlights AI's transformative impact on the workforce, emphasizing its role in creating efficiencies and new jobs, while also stressing the need for higher education to integrate AI as a tool and prioritize critical thinking over rote memorization. They also discuss AI's rapid advancement, its immediate effects on industries like healthcare, and its potential to reshape university operations and academic programs.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Nathan Long, President of the University of Western States, to discuss the impact of AI on education and the future workforce. Dr. Nathan Long explains how AI is transforming the workforce by creating new opportunities while displacing jobs focused on routine tasks. He emphasizes the need for higher education to integrate AI into curricula to equip students with critical thinking skills. Dr. Long also highlights the importance of balancing AI innovation with healthcare compliance, acknowledges the evolving nature of boardroom discussions around AI, and underscores the need for K–12 and bachelor's programs to shift toward problem-based learning.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes Dr. Larry Thompson and Rick Dakan, who elaborate on Ringling College of Art and Design's proactive approach to AI—including their AI task force, undergraduate AI certificate program, and annual AI symposium. They emphasize that AI serves as a tool to enhance human creativity and discernment. Dr. Thompson and Rick Dakan also discuss AI's impact on the entertainment industry, the need for students to become lifelong learners, and the ongoing legal and ethical challenges surrounding AI in art and design. They conclude that AI will require shifts in educational curricula, administrative practices, and marketing strategies—highlighting creativity and human connection as indispensable in the evolving "creative age."

Steven Weiner and JP Novin discuss AI's significant impact on the workforce and education, with Menlo College integrating AI into its curriculum to prepare students for future opportunities through a new major in Artificial Intelligence and Analytics (AIA) and enhanced programs. Steven Weiner outlines Menlo College's career readiness strategies, including a mandatory internship program and extensive student support infrastructure, while acknowledging AI's potential to positively affect industries like accounting and finance. They conclude the discussion with optimism that AI will create new business opportunities despite short-term job displacement—likening it to the Industrial Revolution.

Dr. JP Novin welcomes President Matt Thompson to the podcast and highlights Thompson's significant achievements at Kansas Wesleyan University. President Matt Thompson discusses the transformative impact of AI on future employment, higher education, and curriculum—emphasizing the need to return to liberal arts education and strengthen foundational K–12 skills. He also shares how Kansas Wesleyan is proactively integrating AI into its operations and teaching methodologies to prepare students and staff for an AI-driven world.

JP Novin welcomes Dr. Brendan Kelly to the podcast, where President Kelly explains the ASU System's mandate to operate as an ecosystem—focused on efficiency and value creation for students, employers, and the state of Arkansas. President Kelly views AI as a tool for faster learning and problem-solving, not a replacement for human capabilities. He emphasizes that education should prepare students with versatile skills for future careers, acknowledging that AI is already disrupting entry-level jobs and fields like finance and engineering. Together, they explore the ASU System's approach to aligning with industry needs, the rapid adoption of AI in boardrooms, and the evolving regulatory landscape and academic programs.

The guest of Season 3, Episode 8 is Dr. Mohammed Abousalem, president of Keck Graduate Institute (KGI). In this conversation, Dr. Abousalem discusses how KGI is reimagining education at the intersection of AI, biotechnology, and entrepreneurship. As a leader in global innovation and a key voice in California's life sciences ecosystem, he shares how KGI is preparing students not just for today's workforce, but for the rapidly evolving challenges of tomorrow—by blending cutting-edge science with a bold new learning model.

President Matthew Draud and Dr. JP Novin explore AI's transformative impact on the workforce, emphasizing the need for higher education to prioritize critical thinking and ethical AI use. They discuss how regulatory compliance may slow AI adoption in certain fields, the challenges universities face in adapting curricula to keep pace with AI's rapid development, and the potential for AI to reshape degree granting and accreditation. Key topics include AI's effects on specific industries, understanding the limitations of AI models, strategies to prepare students for future careers, and the broader societal implications of AI-driven job displacement.

In Episode 6 of Season 3, Dr. Gregory Jones, President of Belmont University, explores the pervasive impact of AI across every vocation and field. He emphasizes the importance of viewing AI as a tool to enhance humanity and highlights the need to equip students with a strong foundation in the liberal arts to prepare them for the future of work.President Jones discusses Belmont University's current strategies, including the Belmont Data and AI Collaborative, and the university's commitment to ethical leadership in an era of rapid technological advancement. He also notes Nashville's strong economic ecosystem as a catalyst for AI and data center growth.Addressing barriers to AI adoption—particularly in regulated industries—Dr. Jones advocates for more nimble intellectual property regulation and calls for a transformation in degree-granting models, emphasizing the importance of perpetual learning and competency-based education.

Our guest for Season 3, Episode 5 is Tarek M. Sobh, Ph.D., President of Lawrence Technological University. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing the workforce, urging lifelong learning and foundational skills as traditional roles and educational applications evolve. Dr. Sobh emphasizes the unique opportunity of technological universities like Lawrence Tech to prep students for a tech-driven economy and advocates for stronger ties between industry and education to deliver work-ready graduates. He also highlights the critical importance of early STEM engagement and inclusive access in meeting the growing demand for tech professionals—and predicts significant transformation in future educational models.

Our guest for Season 3, Episode 4 of the Plexuss Presidential Podcast is Robyn Hannigan, Ph.D., President of Ursinus College. She shares how AI is set to profoundly impact every aspect of work—not by replacing jobs, but by augmenting them—and emphasizes the essential role of a liberal arts education in preparing students for that future. President Hannigan highlights Ursinus College's holistic approach, including the Apex program and Common Intellectual Experience, both of which integrate AI ethics and career readiness. She also addresses the regulatory challenges surrounding AI and the important role philosophy majors can play in shaping ethical frameworks. Ursinus stands out by connecting first-year students with career coaches and exposing them to diverse career pathways from day one.

Episode 3 welcomes President Brian Hemphill of Old Dominion University to explore how AI is reshaping higher education—from the classroom to the workplace. President Hemphill discusses ODU's innovative initiatives, including the Monarch Mind AI platform, AI-integrated general education, specialized certificate programs, and the university's centennial cluster initiative to recruit AI-focused faculty. Led by the Division of Digital Transformation and Technology under Vice President Nina Rodriguez Gonzer, these efforts reflect ODU's commitment to preparing students for the future through a competency-based, innovation-driven approach.

William R. Kennedy, President of Andrew College, joins JP Novin to discuss the college's history, its business-oriented approach to higher education, and the accelerating impact of AI on the workforce. They explore how institutions like Andrew College are adapting—examining strategies for AI integration, the evolving role of the humanities, potential shifts in curriculum and degree structures, and the value of balancing in-person and hybrid learning.

JP Novin welcomed President Thom Chesney to discuss the impact of AI on higher education and the future workforce. Thom Chesney shared insights on Southwestern College's mission and their approach to integrating AI awareness into curricula, emphasizing engagement and exploration of AI as a tool to augment human roles across various fields, from clinical processes to administrative tasks. Discussions also covered strategies for student career readiness, the board's perspective on AI, potential barriers to AI adoption, the impact on academic programs and degree structures, and a vision for future-facing, partnership-based learning.

This season, we're exploring how AI is transforming education, leadership, and the future of the workforce.

Dr. Greg Jones, President, Belmont University, joins Brad Johnson

Dr. Diane Lovell, President, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, joins Brad Johnson.

Dr. Kenneth R. Evans, President, Oklahoma City University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Michael Frandsen, President, Wittenberg University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President, Chowan University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Douglas Mann, President, Bryan College, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Suzy Siegle & Tom Petz, President & CEO / Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Walsh College, join Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Jose Marie Griffiths, President, Dakota State University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Roger Hughes, President, Doane University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Kathryn Morris, President, St. Lawrence University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Gene Fant Jr., President, North Greenville University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Tiffany Franks, President, Averett University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Emily Messer, President, Texas Wesleyan University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Dr. Jesse Peters, President, Western Oregon University, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message

Andy Armacost, President, University of North Dakota, joins Brad Johnson. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/plexuss/message