[Bonus Episode] How to Empower Student Retention Efforts with AI

What if AI could help student success teams act earlier, work smarter, and focus more on human connection—without requiring perfect data or adding more burden to already stretched staff? In this special bonus episode of Next Practices, we're sharing a recent conversation featuring Civitas Learning CEO Will Ballard on the Higher Ed Geek Podcast, hosted by Dustin Ramsdell. Will breaks down what institutions actually need to know about AI in higher education today—from predictive and assistive use cases to the cultural and operational shifts required to make new tools stick. Rather than chasing hype, the conversation focuses on how data frequency, institutional specificity, and thoughtful implementation can help teams move from reactive reporting to proactive student support. This episode explores: Why AI in higher education is no longer futuristic—it's essential How institutions can generate value without "perfect" or pristine data Why daily data updates unlock earlier, more meaningful intervention The difference between predictive, assistive, and agentic AI in student success How AI can reduce advisor burnout and create more space for human connection Why measuring the ROI of student success initiatives is critical in today's budget environment What it really takes to drive adoption, trust, and long-term impact This conversation is especially relevant for leaders navigating AI adoption, data skepticism, or change fatigue—and for anyone looking to move beyond dashboards toward outcomes that matter. About the episode: Originally recorded for the Higher Ed Geek Podcast, this discussion is shared here as a bonus episode for the Next Practices community.

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This episode was published on January 15, 2026.

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