Reimagining HigherEd

On Friday 8th May 2026, your panel came together to discuss how institutions can help students to thrive, among all the anxiety and uncertainty of the AI age.  This session explores the intersection of generative AI and student mental health in the higher education sector. Featuring a diverse panel of academic leaders from Australia and Malaysia, and a student representative, the session addresses the "confidence gap" in AI learning, the transition from punitive to learning-first integrity frameworks, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging through human connection. The discussion offers practical insights into how institutions can move beyond the policing of AI to create a culture of trust and uphold critical thinking.   Panelists: Prof Adeeba Kamarulzaman, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) of Monash University Malaysia. Megan Pozzi SFHEA, Director (Student Life), Uni Southern QLD Dr Georgina Maddox, teaching specialist in psychology at Flinders University Ivana Pedruco Aniceto, 3rd year law student from University of Newcastle and chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity. studiosity.com/studentsfirst 

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2026, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work. This first episode in the 2026 series features a conversation between Judyth and Prof Leanne Holt, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). They discuss: Prof Holt's remarkable journey from leaving school in year 11 to leading Indigenous strategy at one of Australia’s top universities, and her personal insights on overcoming 'imposter syndrome' The importance of systemic institutional change over temporary programs, and how UNSW is centering Indigenous knowledge within its broader societal impact goals. Redefining reconciliation as voice, agency, and action - a compelling look at how universities can go beyond internal targets to create genuine community agency and lasting societal change.  

This week, we're resharing a popular episode from the archives. Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost of American University of Bahrain (AUBH) joins host, Dr. Ashraf Mahate to discuss: Preparing students for a world with AI, and the challenges for universities in revising curriculum, training faculty, and establishing ethical guidelines. How AUBH are incorporating collaboration across disciplines to mirror real-world challenges. Dr. Wafa shares her thoughts on the mixed messages higher education sometimes sends to students: when their final grade dictates their opportunities more than the learning journey itself. This can leave students confused about what truly matters.

At ACEx2026, Dr. Timothy M. Renick and Dr. Kathryn Crowther detailed the results and strategic implications of an innovative pilot program between the National Institute for Student Success (NISS), Georgia State University (GSU), and Studiosity. In an era demanding both efficiency and personalized learning, GSU sought a student support solution that could scale effectively across their diverse student body. A micro-pilot took place in Spring 2025, offering Studiosity to 100 students, and was expanded for the Fall to 1,000 students across multiple programs and disciplines. GSU strategically adopted Studiosity's AI-powered writing feedback tool and foundational skills support to determine efficacy and impact. Featuring: Dr. Timothy M. Renick, Executive Director, National Institute for Student Success Dr. Kathryn Crowther, Director of Teaching Effectiveness & Learning Design in the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Online Education at Georgia State University

Dr. David Andrews, Chancellor at UMass Global and Studiosity Academic Advisory Board member, joins host and Chief Academic Officer, Professor Judyth Sachs to discuss: The mindset shift and practices needed to "meet students where they are" Reimagining the role of faculty and leveraging AI for efficiencies in grading and feedback Fluidity and flexibility to enable accessible, enjoyable learning experiences.

Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning at Brock University, discusses the data-rich results of their recent pilot and survey with Studiosity. This session was presented live at Re: University on January 29, 2026 and provides a grounded, evidence-based perspective on how AI support tools are impacting students' confidence, study habits, and AI use, and what the outcomes are for institutions.

Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva, President of Complete College America (CCA), joins Studiosity Chief Academic Officer, Prof. Judyth Sachs to explore the intersection of equity, access, and institutional transformation, underpinned by CCA’s bold mission of improving completion rates for 10 million students across 53 systems. Dr. Watson Spiva addresses AI and the need to shift away from policing towards a pedagogy-first approach, and discusses embedding “universal design” support into institutional infrastructure to ensure every student can persist and successfully complete their degree, regardless of zip code.

Over 2.8 million high schoolers across the U.S. are taking dual enrollment courses, offered in partnership between high schools and local universities and community colleges. With demand increasing, this panel explores the value and impact of dual enrollment programs, career and college readiness and how dual enrollment courses can help students pursue post-secondary aspirations, and some of the barriers preventing more students from taking advantage of these programs. Your panelists: Amy Williams, Executive Director at the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships John Fink, Senior Research Associate and Program Lead, Community College Research Center, Teachers College, Columbia University Christopher Todd, Executive Director of the Office of Early College Programs, University of Connecticut This session is moderated by Goldie Blumenstyk, veteran reporter for The Chronicle of Higher Education and now Senior Fellow at Studiosity.

Dr. Kemi Jona, Vice Provost for Online Education and Digital Innovation at the University of Virginia and Studiosity Academic Advisory Board member, joins host Prof Judyth Sachs to discuss the perfect storm facing higher education: declining public trust in research, shifting government funding, and the need to prove employability outcomes in a changing labor market. The two leaders reflect on how far higher education has strayed from its core mission of enabling students to think deeply and critically, and to demonstrate those skills authentically, and Dr. Jona gives advice to senior leaders looking to successfully pivot towards industry-aligned learning in 2026. Listen in now.

Professor Alex Zelinsky AO reflects on his journey from first-in-family to leading the University of Newcastle, emphasising how his experiences at CSIRO and in defence shaped his commitment to research with real-world impact. Speaking with host, Professor Judyth Sachs, he identifies a ‘triangle of unhappiness’ in the sector, caused by over-regulation, flawed funding models, and a lack of collaboration between government, unions, and universities. To combat these challenges, Prof Zelinsky champions a multidisciplinary, integrated model of education, highlighted by Newcastle’s mandatory career-ready placements, to ensure student success and drive regional economic transformation.

Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Vice-Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, speaks to Dr. Ashraf Mahate about the future of higher education, emphasizing the need for adaptability, innovation, and a student-centric approach. Drawing on her personal philosophy of always remaining a student, Prof Martial-Braz shares how Sorbonne Abu Dhabi balances its legacy with the need to be relevant and competitive in the #UAE market, and advocates for embedding AI into curriculum, ensuring students can use these tools while preserving their human capacity for judgment and critical thinking.

“If it's not about the students, then what's education about anyway?” Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Clare Pollock’s leadership is defined by her unwavering commitment to student success and equity. In this conversation, she speaks with Professor Judyth Sachs about her strong advocacy for keeping students at the centre of the university experience, which she has carried through roles at different institutions. Now leading Edith Cowan University, Prof Pollock shares insights into how the university is rethinking the future of education - including leveraging AI to transform its curriculum towards programmatic learning and assessment, to support authentic learning and prepare graduates for whatever comes next.

Professor Lily Kong, Singapore's first local and first female university president, currently leading Singapore Management University (SMU) joins host, Professor Judyth Sachs. Prof. Kong reflects on her own undergraduate experience and how it shaped her focus as a leader - from introducing interdisciplinary curriculum that exposes students to the “big questions”, to cultivating interpersonal and intrapersonal skills so that students remain “more human” and can adapt in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss this invigorating conversation with a truly visionary leader, committed to transforming the educational experience for every student at SMU.

Dr. James Beeby, Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse speaks to your host, and Studiosity Chief Academic Officer, Professor Judyth Sachs. Dr. Beeby recounts his personal and professional journey, from first-generation college student from a small village in England, to leading a selective regional public university in the United States. He champions the transformative power of higher education and discusses his vision for the future, emphasizing greater responsiveness to community needs, providing affordable access, and preparing students for success. James offers advice to current students, noting the value of kindness, continuous learning, and lifting others as you climb.

In a very special episode this week, join three leading HE thought leaders to discuss the existential crisis facing universities today. This high-stakes conversation is hosted by Professor Judyth Sachs (Chief Academic Officer, Studiosity, and former Provost, Macquarie University), and Judyth is joined by: Dr. Noreen Golfman (Studiosity Academic Advisory Board Member, and former Provost, Memorial University): Detailing the rise of government interference, budget cuts, and the imperative for institutions to shed the "bloated" clichés. Goldie Blumenstyk (Friend to Studiosity, and former 36-year journalist, The Chronicle of Higher Education): Sharing her unparalleled insights on the economic contraction and the current reshaping of the American academy.

Professor Imad Hoballah, VP for Institutional Advancement & External Relations at American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) joins host, Dr. Ashraf Mahate. Listen in to hear his insights on: Encouraging students to learn through failure and discovery, rather than memorisation, recalling an early project failure and being told "If you're not failing, you're not pushing boundaries". Equipping students for future jobs, not disappearing ones, and why any university not integrating industry into its programs is doing its students and community a disservice. Transforming learning to remove rigid silos and enable students to gain diverse experiences to be agile for future multidisciplinary challenges.

On 25th September 2025, this panel came together to discuss New Zealand's growth plans for international students, the panelists' personal experiences as international students, the initiatives their universities have to support international students' wellbeing and sense of belonging, and the political and economic challenges facing international education in New Zealand. They also discussed New Zealand's unique position in the international education market compared to other countries and the importance of aligning international student programs with the country's workforce needs. Your panel: Prof Damon Salesa, Vice Chancellor, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Prof Jennifer Milam, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, University of Waikato Christopher Carey, Executive Director, Global Engagement at Massey University Stephanie Milam, International student And Chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

Professor Dato' Elizabeth Lee, Group CEO of Sunway Education Group in Malaysia, speaks to host, Professor Judyth Sachs, about how she is guided by her faith and a 'servant leadership' philosophy. During her early education, Elizabeth felt conflicted between her interest in the arts, and societal expectations to pursue the sciences. Her determination to follow her own path later shaped her vision to offer students a more holistic, interdisciplinary approach to learning. Today, Sunway Education Group prepares students for an uncertain future by nurturing resilience, curiosity, and a sense of civic responsibility, while actively exploring ways to adapt AI technology tools into teaching and learning.

Professor Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at University of Sharjah speaks to Dr. Ashraf Mahate about the challenges and opportunities of rapid technological change - with a focus on elevating students' preparedness for the evolving job market. Prof Haik talks about how Sharjah is evolving their assessment methods to emphasise student learning over information recall, and tackles the big question of how universities can “develop reliable assessment tools that allow the students to use AI without jeopardising the integrity and rigour of the education”.

Professor Adeeba Kamarulzaman, leader of Monash University Malaysia, joins Studiosity’s Chief Academic Officer and host, Professor Judyth Sachs. Prof. Kamarulzaman reflects on the challenges facing higher education in Malaysia, in particular the rise of AI and changing workplace, and emphasises the need to balance the focus on producing skilled graduates in fields like engineering and AI, with a renewed emphasis on the humanities, integrity, and empathy - qualities she argues cannot be taught by AI.

The inimitable Ted Mitchell, President of the American Council on Education (ACE) joins Studiosity Academic Advisory Board member and former Provost and Vice President Academic at Memorial University, Dr. Noreen Golfman. In this conversation, the two leaders reflect on the complex and challenging landscape of higher education policy in the United States. Don’t miss this special episode - part of an initiative between Studiosity and the American Council on Education, to help ACE Members across the United States adopt scaled, evidence-based AI for Learning into 2026.

Join Abtar Kaur, Professor of Innovative Digital Learning and UNESCO Chair at Asia Pacific University (APU) with host, Prof Judyth Sachs. The two professors discuss a future “work and learn” model where student learning is industry-focused, with less time spent in classrooms; the importance of a whole-of-university approach to driving the transformation of teaching and learning; and Prof Kaur’s vision for developing curious, confident, and resilient graduates who can effectively apply AI to solve real problems and enhance their learning.

Professor Grant Edwards, Vice-Chancellor of Lincoln University joins host, Professor Judyth Sachs in conversation. Reflecting on his passion for hockey and agriculture, Prof. Edwards discusses his path and connection to Lincoln, a specialist university with a deep commitment to the land-based sectors in New Zealand. He also speaks to the challenges facing HE leaders in the region, including navigating the role of technology in productivity and learning, and addressing access and affordability barriers in education.

Hear from the four UK and European finalists of Studiosity’s 2025 Tracey Bretag prize for Academic Integrity, to learn more about their educational integrity initiatives. Chaired by our Chief Academic Officer, Professor Judyth Sachs, in this Age of AI the panel discussed the need to evolve academic integrity from strict, punitive frameworks into supportive, evidence-based, and ethical approaches; the importance of clear policies on AI use in assessments; and the benefits of early engagement with staff and students in order to adapt to emerging challenges in higher education.  Your panel: Lee Griffin, Academic Director (Postgraduate Taught), University of Warwick Dr Marzia Coltri, PhD, GUS Fellow and Lecturer at Arden University, Academic Associate (Professor Extraordinarius) at UNISA Dr Shiva Sivasubramaniam, Deputy Dean, University of Roehampton Dr Mary-Claire Kennedy, Academic Integrity Lead, University of Limerick, Chair of the National Academic Integrity Network (Ireland)

Dr. Stacy Young, alum and President of Manchester University, Indiana speaks with Prof Judyth Sachs on staying agile, responding to changing student needs, and embracing AI to enhance the learning experience. Listen in to hear how Manchester is making higher education more accessible, through enabling students to graduate faster and with less debt, and by innovating the university’s programs to meet the evolving needs of the job market.

Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost of American University of Bahrain (AUBH) joins host, Dr. Ashraf Mahate this week, to discuss: Preparing students for a world with AI, and the challenges for universities in revising curriculum, training faculty, and establishing ethical guidelines. How AUBH are incorporating collaboration across disciplines to mirror real-world challenges. Dr. Wafa shares her thoughts on the mixed messages higher education sometimes sends to students: when their final grade dictates their opportunities more than the learning journey itself. This can leave students confused about what truly matters.

Dr. Sudhindra Shamanna, Academic President at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai, joins host Dr. Ashraf Mahate to explore the evolving landscape of higher education and key questions facing leaders today. How are educators adapting teaching to keep students engaged and at the centre of the learning process? How can higher education connect more effectively with industry and community in the UAE, to ensure students are employable and feel more certain about their futures? Universities like Manipal are rethinking assessment - how do they evaluate the way students are learning in the age of AI? Listen in to hear these discussed in depth, plus more.

National Taiwan University's 'Illuminating, Navigating and Transforming (INT) system' won the 2025 Times Higher Education Award for 'Outstanding Support for Students', the category sponsored globally by Studiosity. Prof Judyth Sachs had the chance to sit down with Professor Wang and discuss not just the success of this initiative, but also the key challenges facing students in Taiwan, and how the university can build their confidence and self-determination, to set them up for the future.

Dr. Ronald Rochon, President of California State University Fullerton, joins Prof Judyth Sachs for this enriching conversation. The two leaders discuss fostering environments where students are encouraged to engage with diverse communities, embrace discomfort, and build their capabilities. Dr. Rochon provides insight into the Cal State Fullerton student experience and the university’s commitment to celebrating different identities and perspectives.

Join Professor Judyth Sachs for an insightful conversation with Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar, the first woman and first foreign-born president of the University of Lynchburg. The two leaders discuss mentorship and determination, empowering students with purpose and belonging, leading through change, and Alison’s top three guiding books for navigating the complexities of higher education leadership.

Around National Reconciliation Week 2025, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work. In this third interview of the series, Prof Sachs speaks with her former colleague and current friend, Prof Jennifer Barrett, discussing her role as the interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Strategy and Services, as well as the PVC Indigenous (Academic) at the University of Sydney. Prof Barrett shares her thoughts on the importance of education, research, and student inclusion in the university's reconciliation efforts, as well as the need for strong Indigenous leadership. She outlines the university's plans to celebrate NAIDOC Week, including a new NAIDOC Ball organised by students. Prof Barrett also emphasises the interdisciplinary and cross-cutting nature of 'reconciliation' as it occurs within higher education, and the challenges of driving change within the university's structures, silos, and disciplines.

This timely discussion explored the evolving landscape of generative AI within New Zealand's higher education sector, focusing on how institutions can navigate its opportunities and challenges, while maintaining degree integrity, data security, and a focus on student success and wellbeing. Your panel: Prof Catherine Moran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, University of Canterbury Prof Naomi Cogger, Strategic Lead - GenAI Engagement, Massey University Prof Martin Carroll, Deputy Chief Executive Academic, Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec Luc MacKay, President, University of Canterbury Student Association (UCSA) And Chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, former PVC Learning and Teaching at The University of Sydney, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at Macquarie University, and now Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

This week, join Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive of Universities UK, and guest host Professor Petra Wend as they discuss the challenges facing the higher ed sector, including financial sustainability and the evolving landscape of mass university participation; universities leading the way in individualised support and student success; and the importance of having clear purpose and not losing sight of the end game.

Dr. Marc Poulin, Acting President of Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) and the UAE Academy joins our host this week, Dr. Ashraf Mahate. They discuss sparking student interest with practical, scenario-based teaching and industry partnerships; advocating for a principles-based approach to AI and equipping faculty and students with the right skills; and Dr. Poulin shares his advice from personal experience, on nurturing grit and drive, and the dangers of wasted time.

Dr. Kyle Long, President of the American University in Dubai (AUD), sits down with host Dr. Ashraf Mahate this week. They discuss: Dr. Long's experiences studying abroad and establishing a university in Iraq, and the impact these have had on his leadership approach and educational philosophy AUD's commitment to student success, and plans to integrate adaptive learning technologies into teaching, while preserving the value of critical thinking and human discussion The challenges of leading an established institution while embracing innovation and change in this digital age. 

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2025, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work. This second interview of the series is with the delightful Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation. Charlene discusses her own career journey, the history and mission of the GO Foundation in providing education scholarships and support to Indigenous students, and her views on the importance of reconciliation in Australia. She emphasises the need for truth-telling, respect, trust, and empathy in the reconciliation process, and the responsibility of all organisations to engage with reconciliation. Charlene also highlights the role of Indigenous-led organisations in driving reconciliation efforts at the community, state, and national levels.  

On 14 May 2025 this panel came together to discuss how higher education institutions can equitably improve student outcomes, engagement, and sense of belonging - from day one to year one, and beyond. In this first 2025 Symposium, your panel explored the evolving needs and expectations of first-year students, drawing on data, lived experiences, and frontline practice. Chaired by Professor Judyth Sachs, former PVC Learning and Teaching at The University of Sydney, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at Macquarie University, and now Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity. Your panel: Professor Sally Kift, President of the Australian Learning and Teaching Fellows (ALTF), Adjunct Professor JCU, La Trobe, QUT Professor Ryan Naylor, Professor of Higher Education , the University of Sydney Sarah Bendall, First Assistant Ombudsman, National Student Ombudsman (NSO) Watch the recording on video here: https://vimeo.com/1084234254?share=copy. 

Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan, joins host Professor Cliff Allan this week. As a leader, Dr. Zia has focused on enabling and facilitating universities through policy interventions, and expanding access and equity in higher education, particularly for marginalised communities and female students. Listen in to hear Dr. Zia discuss the truly transformative power of higher education in driving societal and economic progress in Pakistan, and the importance of embracing AI technology and collaboration to achieve this vision.

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week 2025, Prof Judyth Sachs interviews Indigenous leaders about reconciliation in a higher education context, what it means for them, and how they see their contribution to the institutions in which they work. First up: Nathan Towney, Deputy Vice Chancellor Equity and Engagement at the University of Newcastle, discusses his career journey, and his four-pillar approach to driving an Indigenous strategy across the university: Building cultural knowledge and understanding through curriculum, staff development, and community engagement Increasing participation and retention of Indigenous students and staff Ensuring Indigenous-led research and community involvement Aligning the university's Reconciliation Action Plan across all areas Nathan emphasises the importance of building strong relationships and modelling the desired behaviours to achieve collective impact, rather than focusing solely on the term "reconciliation".

Prof George Williams AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University speaks with Prof Judyth Sachs about the early life experiences that shaped his appreciation for education and commitment to creating a more equitable higher education sector. Also discussed in this chat: How WSU is improving the student experience, addressing issues like food insecurity, and using data and partnerships to better support student retention The need to rethink teaching models and delivery to better serve the evolving needs of a diverse student population and Western Sydney region Optimism about the future: Prof Williams' hope for positive changes in government policy to support students.

Dr. Susan Edwards, President of Wright State University joins Prof Judyth Sachs this week, to reimagine higher education. Listen in as they discuss: The importance of accessible, affordable education and the deep commitment Sue has to supporting students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds Insights on the future of higher ed, advocating for more flexible, stackable credentials, closer partnerships with business, and the integration of AI technologies across disciplines The value of embracing failure, leaning into fear, and leading by example, drawing from her own experiences as a lifelong learner and leader.

Dr. Graham Carr, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia University joins host Dr. Noreen Golfman for this week’s conversation. Together they discuss: Challenges and opportunities of transitioning from faculty to university leadership Facilitating work-integrated learning, and leveraging AI technology to enhance the student experience and prepare graduates The need for universities to be more responsive to societal changes, while preserving the core values that are integral to higher education.

Professor Neil Quigley, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waikato joins host Professor Judyth Sachs for this week’s conversation. Neil shares the challenges of leading a university today, particularly adapting to AI technology and its impact on assessment and learning; how the University of Waikato is integrating different cultural perspectives, emphasising support for learner success, and ensuring every graduate is prepared with work-integrated learning; and how learning new languages - Vietnamese and Te reo Māori - improved his listening skills and shaped his leadership journey.

Join Professor Damon Salesa, Vice-Chancellor of Auckland University of Technology (AUT) in conversation with Professor Judyth Sachs about the importance of curiosity and humility in learning, the role of history in understanding the present, and the challenges facing higher education today. In this episode: As the first Pasifika Vice-Chancellor in New Zealand, Damon shares his perspective on the responsibilities that come with this, and the need to consider the broader societal implications of such milestones. The increasing need for universities to provide a place of social cohesion and connectedness, for growing and supporting the development of well-rounded citizens capable of engaging with complex, contested ideas. Equipping students with the essential skills for university success, including self-awareness and becoming self-directed learners, and the strong commitment AUT has to educational opportunity and student support.

Dr. Deborah MacLatchy, President of Wilfrid Laurier University, joins Dr. Noreen Golfman this week to reflect on the student experience, noting increased engagement and advocacy by today’s students, alongside greater challenges with financial pressures and uncertainty about the future. Also in this episode: A biologist at heart, Deborah shares how her desire to enact change drove the decision to move into leadership Why we need to consider the environmental impact and broader implications of AI in education, beyond just the technological capabilities Enabling more personalized faculty-student connection, which Deborah sees as critical to the university experience.

This week we’re bringing you a fascinating journey through academia and leadership, spanning continents, institutions, and roles. Prof. Dr. Maurits van Rooijen, CAO of Global University Systems and Rector of University of Europe joins Dr. Ashraf Mahate in this captivating conversation. Discussed in this episode:  Balancing theoretical and practical education, with a focus on developing students' real-world skills, critical thinking, and ability to learn from failure Rooijen's collaborative leadership style, involving asking the right questions and encouraging faculty to arrive at solutions themselves Incorporating AI into university operations and teaching, emphasising the importance for both educators and students to critically engage with new technologies.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS), joins guest host Dr. Ashraf Mahate in this week’s conversation. They explore Tod’s career in and around academia, from faculty at Duke University, to founding president of Khalifa University, and chief academic officer of SUNY. Also discussed: Evolving expectations of students in the UAE, particularly their desire for entrepreneurial opportunities and engagement with sustainability initiatives. Adapting to, and advocating for, AI technologies while maintaining the core values of education, ethics, and learning. The value of a well-rounded education, and AUS' commitment to a liberal arts core, preparing students to tackle complex, interdisciplinary challenges in their future careers.

Dr. Chuck Welch, President of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) joins Prof. Judyth Sachs this week. Chuck and Judyth reflect on the changes in higher education over the past 30 years, and discuss perceived public value, using data and evidence, and being more transparent and accountable as institutions. Furthermore - they dive into the impact of generative AI on education, the evolving value of a college degree, and the unique role AASCU plays in advocating for student success.

Listen in as we learn more about Singapore Institute of Technology’s President, Prof Chua Kee Chaing, and his vision to guide SIT to find its own space among leading research-intensive universities, to be Singapore's university for industry. Prof Judyth Sachs discusses with Prof Chua the opportunities with AI technology and why education and ethics are critical to students using it in their learning.

Prof Tan Tai Yong, the second President of Singapore University of Social Sciences, sits down with Prof Judyth Sachs, to uncover his journey from historian to higher ed leadership.   They reflect on: Leading complex organisations, emphasising the importance of long-term perspectives and engaging with students and staff Adaptability and an open mindset, Prof Yong shares his advice to today’s students who will have longer working lives than ever before How National University of Singapore (NUS) transformed student life, including developing ‘University Town’ to foster a stronger sense of belonging among students Embracing AI and technology to enhance, not replace, critical thinking and synthesis skills of graduates.