Dr. JP Novin speaks with Michael Shannon, President of the University of North Georgia, about how AI is changing the role of higher education and the skills students need for an uncertain future. They discuss the importance of wisdom, courage, critical thinking, and human problem-solving in an era when knowledge is increasingly accessible. Dr. Shannon also explores how universities can better connect education, industry, workforce needs, and national priorities while embracing technological change.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. Kristi Kirk, President of Concordia University Texas, about the enduring mission of higher education and how institutions can adapt without losing sight of their purpose. They explore AI in the classroom, responsible use of the technology, the value of liberal arts education, and the importance of preparing students for meaningful work. Dr. Kirk also discusses Concordia’s 100-year history and how the university is navigating financial, enrollment, policy, and other challenges while staying focused on its students and mission.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. Danielle Wilkins, President of the University of Bridgeport, about the evolving role of higher education and what institutions must do to prepare students for the workforce. They discuss affordability, career-focused learning, industry partnerships, and Bridgeport’s approach to artificial intelligence, including its AI programs and innovative use of AI technology. Dr. Wilkins also shares lessons from her leadership journey and her vision for transforming the university through transparency, collaboration, and institutional agility.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. Aondover Tarhule, President of Illinois State University, about leading a historic institution through a rapidly changing higher education landscape. They explore how AI is reshaping education and the workforce, why universities must focus on critical thinking and adaptability rather than rote learning, and the enduring role of higher education in creating social mobility. Dr. Tarhule also shares his perspective on institutional agility, the future of Illinois State, and preparing students for a future we cannot fully predict.

Dr. JP Novin sits down with Dr. Andrea Talentino, President of Augustana College, to explore how liberal arts education is evolving in an era of AI and rapid workforce change. They discuss the value of critical thinking, communication, and whole-person development, how colleges can prepare students for a changing job market, and the importance of modernizing programs while staying true to institutional mission. Dr. Talentino also shares her perspective on affordability, higher education policy, and the future of small private colleges.

Dr. JP Novin speaks with Dr. Susan L. Parish, President of Mercy University, about creating pathways to success for first-generation, low-income, and commuter students. They explore Mercy’s approach to work-based learning, student retention, AI integration, affordability, and preparing students with the human and technical skills they need for the future.

Dr. JP Novin sits down with Jonathan Koppell, President of Montclair State University, to explore how higher education must evolve in the face of demographic shifts, AI, changing workforce demands, and growing questions about the value of a degree. They discuss the future of learning, human creativity, social mobility, and what it takes for universities to become more adaptive, innovative, and responsive to a rapidly changing world.

Dr. JP Novin sits down with Dr. Timothy Lynch, President of the College of Staten Island, to explore how public higher education can expand opportunity while adapting to a rapidly changing workforce. They discuss enrollment growth, affordability, career preparation, AI integration, student support, and the role of higher education in advancing economic and social mobility.

In this episode, Dr. JP Novin sits down with Dr. Matthew Draud, President of Briar Cliff University, to explore how institutions can pursue sustainable growth while adapting to the rapid evolution of AI and the workforce. They discuss Briar Cliff’s enrollment growth and financial turnaround, the role of AI in admissions and across the curriculum, and the challenges facing healthcare programs amid changes to federal student borrowing. Dr. Draud also shares his perspective on the enduring value of liberal arts education, social mobility, and preparing students to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world.

In Episode 24 of Season 4 of the Plexuss Presidential Podcast, Dr. JP Novin sits down with Dr. Alan Kadish, President of Touro University, to explore how higher education can adapt to an era of rapid technological change. They discuss AI’s impact on the workforce, the importance of liberal arts education, and why critical thinking, communication, and human judgment remain essential as technology continues to evolve.