Project Management in Higher Ed: Blending Strategy, Technology, and Human Skills (separate registration is required)

Monday, October 27, 2025 | 8:00AM–11:30AM CT | Meeting Room 205, Level 2
Session Type: Preconference Workshop
Delivery Format: Additional Fee Program

Today’s project managers are no longer just task organizers or methodology enforcers. We’re strategic leaders, trusted communicators, cross-functional collaborators and technology forward professionals. In a world of constant change and increasing complexity, our role has expanded far beyond timelines and budgets. Success now demands a blend of project management methodology, emotional intelligence, technical expertise, and the agility to navigate shifting priorities. From leading multidisciplinary teams to leveraging AI and data visualization tools, project managers must wear many hats and wear them well. 

In this pre-conference workshop, we’ll review the skills and methodologies every project manager needs to know, discover how emotional intelligence needs to be part of your communication and change management strategy, and discuss how technology, particularly AI, can help us effectively lead projects in today’s dynamic higher education landscape.

Outcomes of this workshop:

In this session, we will share and discuss in interactive conversations: 1.) How project management has changed. 2.) What project managers must do to blend traditional project management with new capabilities to drive strategy, foster innovation, and promote collaboration. 2.) The role of communicator and how emotional intelligence is essential to manage diverse teams and maintain team morale in a digital environment. 3.) Which technical skills need to be refined to use automation, allowing more time to focus on strategic decision-making. 

Note: Participants who successfully complete this preconference workshop will be eligible to receive an EDUCAUSE microcredential. To earn this digital badge, you must complete a brief workshop evaluation and share two key learning outcomes from your experience. All registered participants will receive an email on October 29 with instructions for completing these steps. Completion of both is required. To learn how to accept and make the most of your microcredential, visit the EDUCAUSE Microcredential website.

Presenters

  • Carol Kiliany

    Campus Engagement Partner, California State University, Office of the Chancellor
  • Ed Puckett

    Enterprise Senior IT Project Manager, Kansas State University

Resources & Downloads

  • Project Management in Higher Ed Workshop Slides

    Updated on 6/14/2026