Slowing Down to Speed Up in an AI World for Higher Education (Separate registration is required.)

AI is already entering the higher education arena, reshaping how we work, think, and lead. But as technology accelerates, one truth is becoming clear: the future of work is getting to be messier than ever. Heavy reliance on AI tools, shifting priorities and execution, chaos in implementation, and mixture of needs between AI vs. human capability have truly muddied the waters, leaving us to ask: Where do people come in to lead the chat the AI has entered?
 
In this thought-provoking session, Dr. Jay Pugh explores the evolving role of leadership in an AI-powered world. While AI brings speed, scale, and efficiency, it is human leadership that brings meaning, direction, and connection. The real differentiator? Power skills—critical thinking, validation and accuracy of information, strategic communication, agile leadership, emotional intelligence, and cross-functional intelligence—are now the critical drivers of high-performing teams. We need to start slowing down in our decision-making and processes to speed up the acceleration and effectiveness of performance.
 
Attendees will leave with a renewed perspective on how to lead through uncertainty, build stronger human-centered teams, and harness AI without losing what makes us human. Because in a world where everyone has access to intelligence, leadership is what makes it matter. Join us for this dynamic session! 

Outcomes of this workshop:

• Navigate AI chaos with clarity and more strategic communication.
• Empower human-centered skills that drive performance, like critical thinking and decision-making.
• Leverage AI as key tools and resources (and not THE source) that amplify human strengths.

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 5 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.