Dr. Jack Thomas has served as president of Western Illinois University, Central State University, and interim President at the University of Maryland Eastern shore. He brings a long history of success and insights from a broad range of experiences in higher education. Prior to becoming a president, Dr. Thomas also held a broad range of senior leadership and academic positions at Middle Tennessee State University, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, (interim president), South Carolina State University, and Johnson C. Smith University. Dr. Thomas is a published researcher, and his research focus has been on Black males in literature. Additionally, he is the author of numerous publications and professional presentations, including his most recent book titled “Within These Gates: Academic Work, Academic Leadership, University Life, and the Presidency.” Dr. Thomas has been a committed advocate for diversity and inclusion. He has been recognized by Minority Access, Inc. and others for his work helping to provide meaningful and transformative opportunities for minorities through mentorship and access at various universities. Dr. Thomas’ current work is entitled, Leading Through Crisis.
Throughout my years as a university president and academic leader, I’ve seen firsthand how technology has transformed higher education. From early administrative systems that streamlined registration processes to digital tools that made remote learning possible, each new technological advancement has brought both opportunities and challenges. But today, artificial intelligence (AI) offers us more than just convenience—it has the power to reshape education itself. This shift is exciting, but as with any major change, it demands a careful balance of enthusiasm and caution. Here, I want to share my perspective on the benefits and risks of AI, how it can be embraced responsibly, and some of the ways we can manage the change thoughtfully.
The Benefits of AI in Higher Education
Personalized Learning Experiences
As an educator, I’ve always believed in meeting students where they are. AI can help us do this in ways we never could before. With adaptive learning platforms, we can offer each student a tailored experience that meets their unique needs. For example, AI can help identify when a student is struggling with a concept and offer additional resources or practice, effectively serving as a “digital tutor.” This level of personalized attention has the potential to keep students engaged, helping them progress at their own pace and ultimately succeed in ways that traditional methods may not allow.
Streamlining Administrative Tasks
During my presidency at one institution, administrative tasks could take a significant portion of our staff’s time, often pulling focus away from direct student engagement. With AI, many of these tasks, like scheduling, enrollment, and even initial advising, can be automated, freeing up time for faculty and staff to provide the personal, hands-on support that is so critical in education. At a previous institution, I saw how an AI-powered chatbot could answer students’ frequently asked questions 24/7, easing the burden on our support staff and giving students immediate assistance. This kind of efficiency benefits both students and staff, making campus resources more accessible.
Data-Driven Insights for Student Success
AI offers incredible potential for using data to inform institutional strategies. At each university I led, retention and student success were top priorities. With AI, we now have the ability to analyze trends and spot students at risk before they fall too far behind.
These insights enable universities to proactively offer support, whether it’s through tutoring, counseling, or personalized guidance. This type of data-driven intervention not only helps students succeed academically but also strengthens our institutions by improving retention rates and academic outcomes.
Enhancing Research and Innovation
AI is accelerating research in ways we couldn’t have imagined even a decade ago. At institutions with strong research programs, faculty and students alike are benefiting from AI tools that can analyze complex data, simulate outcomes, and generate new hypotheses. For students, learning to use these tools provides essential skills for the future job market. As we prepare the next generation for careers in an AI-driven world, integrating these technologies into research not only strengthens academic programs but also positions our students competitively in their fields.
The Risks and Challenges of AI in Higher Education
Ethical Concerns and Bias
AI may be powerful, but it’s not inherently fair. The algorithms it relies on are only as unbiased as the data they’re trained on, and unfortunately, many datasets carry biases that can perpetuate inequality. As I reflect on the challenges of diversity, equity, and inclusion that I faced in my career, I see a risk that AI, if not carefully monitored, could reinforce existing disparities. If AI systems inadvertently disadvantage certain student groups, we must have protocols in place to address these issues promptly and equitably. Responsible AI use in higher education must include an unwavering commitment to fairness and inclusivity.
Academic Integrity and the Nature of Learning
A key question AI raises is how it might change the way students learn and engage with their studies. The potential for AI to generate essays, solve complex equations, or create research projects raises concerns about academic integrity. If students begin to rely too heavily on AI for their coursework, we risk devaluing the learning process and diluting the academic rigor that defines higher education. We must work with students and faculty to establish clear guidelines on ethical AI use, ensuring that AI serves as a tool for enhancement, not a shortcut.
Privacy and Security
AI systems often require extensive data to function effectively, which raises serious concerns about data privacy and security. Protecting students’ personal and academic information has always been a priority in my leadership roles, and the introduction of AI doesn’t change that commitment. To maintain trust and comply with regulations, universities must invest in robust cybersecurity measures and data protection policies. This is a non-negotiable responsibility we have to our students and faculty in this age of digital innovation.
Potential Job Displacement
Finally, the possibility of AI displacing certain roles within universities is a real concern. AI can handle routine tasks like grading or basic administrative functions, but the human element of teaching and mentoring is irreplaceable. The relationships that faculty build with students, the mentorship they provide, and the insights they offer go beyond what any machine can replicate. While AI can assist, we must be cautious to preserve these essential roles, ensuring that the transition to an AI-enabled environment is thoughtful and respectful of the contributions of all faculty and staff.
Recommendations for Embracing AI Responsibly
Develop Ethical Standards
As we integrate AI into higher education, it’s essential to establish ethical guidelines that emphasize transparency, fairness, and accountability. One approach I recommend is forming an ethics committee to review AI applications and ensure they align with the institution’s values. This step will help create a framework for responsible AI use, supporting ethical practices across campus.
Invest in Training for Faculty and Staff
Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Investing in AI training for faculty and staff can help everyone from professors to administrators understand and implement AI effectively. Training programs should cover not only the technical aspects of AI but also ethical considerations, data privacy, and ways to incorporate AI in a way that complements teaching and learning.
Promote Digital Literacy for Students
Our students will enter a world where AI skills are essential, so preparing them now is a gift to their future. By embedding AI literacy into the curriculum, we can teach students how to engage with AI responsibly and use it to advance their goals. At each institution I served, we prioritized digital literacy to ensure that students graduate with the skills they need to thrive. By emphasizing digital and AI literacy, universities can empower students to navigate and leverage these tools ethically.
Maintain a Balance Between Technology and Human Interaction
AI should enhance, not replace, the interpersonal aspects of education. Technology can make us more efficient, but it’s the relationships between faculty, staff, and students that truly define a university’s culture. At every institution where I served as president, my focus was on building community and fostering connections. AI should be integrated in ways that support these human interactions rather than diminish them.
Embracing Change with Caution and Purpose
Artificial intelligence presents a transformative opportunity for higher education, one that we should approach with both enthusiasm and responsibility. By implementing clear ethical standards, providing training, promoting digital literacy, and preserving the human connections that define our institutions, we can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding our values. As we navigate this new frontier, let us remember that AI should serve to support and enhance the educational mission, never to replace it.