Researching the Landscape with Dr. Claire Brady

Got a story to tell? An innovative idea to share? Fill out our guest nomination form and let's chat!

‍

About The Episode:

Dr. Claire Brady shares insights from her groundbreaking report on AI integration in student affairs, offering practical frameworks for implementation, real-world use cases, and strategies for building institutional AI literacy. Learn how institutions are successfully adopting AI tools to enhance student success while maintaining educational values.

‍

View Claire's Report‍

‍Register For The Presentation

Episode prompt:

Go to https://smarterx.ai/jobsgpt and click on “Launch JobsGPT”

Then, upload your job description or enter your job title and use the prompt “How will AI impact my job?” Then you can go on to ask follow-up questions like “What tools should I be testing?” “How can ChatGPT help me be more effective and more efficient in my current role?”

‍

Key Takeaways

• AI is transformative but underutilized in higher education: Despite its immense potential, many institutions feel they are behind in AI adoption, but even basic steps like AI literacy training can position schools ahead of their peers.
• Framework for AI integration: Dr. Brady’s report outlines a four-phase framework to guide institutions—rapid implementation, resource and capacity building, scaling solutions, and strategic transformation.
• Ethical AI usage is crucial: Transparency, equity, and data stewardship are foundational principles for responsible AI adoption in student affairs.
• Practical use cases inspire innovation: Examples from Furman University’s AI well-being coach and D’Youville University’s holistic AI initiatives demonstrate creative and effective applications of AI in student affairs.
• AI literacy is the gateway: Understanding AI tools and their data sources can empower institutions to ask the right questions, build policies, and leverage AI effectively.

‍

Episode Summary

What Inspired the Report?

Dr. Claire Brady’s extensive work in AI and student affairs, combined with her collaboration with NASPA, led to the creation of The Transformative Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Student Affairs. The report addresses the pressing need for actionable guidance in integrating AI into student affairs, covering topics such as ethical considerations, institutional benefits, and a structured implementation framework. Through practitioner-informed insights, it aims to demystify AI for higher education leaders.

‍

Why is Higher Education Behind in AI Adoption?

Higher education institutions face unique challenges in adopting AI compared to corporate sectors. Dr. Brady points to factors like stretched bandwidth, hesitancy from past disruptions (like the pandemic), and the over-focus on AI’s risks—particularly around cheating. However, she reassures institutions that even small steps, like improving AI literacy and drafting basic policies, can catalyze transformative change.

‍

How Can Institutions Start Their AI Journey?

Dr. Brady emphasizes a phased approach:

1. Rapid Implementation: Identify low-resource, high-impact actions for quick wins.
2. Resource Building: Develop AI literacy, expand infrastructure, and enhance staff capacity.
3. Scaling Solutions: Broaden successful initiatives to multiple departments or areas.
4. Strategic Transformation: Leverage AI for enterprise-wide innovation, requiring robust infrastructure and planning.

By starting small and building strategically, institutions can integrate AI effectively and responsibly.

‍

Where is AI in Higher Education Heading?

The future of AI in student affairs lies in creating intelligent ecosystems tailored to students' needs. Dr. Brady predicts advancements in predictive analytics, hyper-personalized learning, and integrated systems that bridge academic, social, and career support. Institutions that embrace AI now will be better positioned to meet evolving student expectations and leverage data for meaningful outcomes.

‍

Connect With Our Host:
Brian Piper
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianwpiper/

‍

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
AI for U is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Mastering the Next.

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

‍

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!

The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education.

Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

👉🏻 Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st.