Learning Lab | Driving Institutional Value: Connecting Strategic Planning, Project Management, and AI – November 2026

Part 1: November 2, 2026 | 12:00–1:30 p.m.ET
Part 2: November 4, 2026 | 12:00–1:30 p.m.ET
Part 3: November 9, 2026 | 12:00–1:30 p.m.ET
Part 4: November 11, 2026 | 12:00–1:30 p.m.ET

Overview

Institutions increasingly depend on successful projects to advance strategic goals, improve services, and support innovation. Project success in higher education depends as much on strategic planning and prioritization at the executive level as it does on processes and tools during the project implementation.

This Learning Lab examines project management through a higher education lens, combining strategic planning, project methodologies, AI-enabled workflows, change management, and emotional intelligence into an integrated approach for leading institutional initiatives. Learn to think like a leader by connecting strategic planning with project management.

By the end of the learning lab, participants will develop a high-level strategic plan that integrates core principles of project management and change management while using AI to support and advance project goals.

Learning Outcomes:

NOTE: You will be asked to complete assignments in between the Learning Lab segments that support the learning outcomes stated below. You will receive feedback and constructive critique from course facilitators.

• Identify the components of the strategic planning process.
• Leverage a SWOT analysis to build strategic objectives that enhance your organization's value proposition.
• Integrate AI tools and capabilities into strategic planning efforts.
• Translate strategic plans into actionable strategic projects that drive organizational value.
• Apply foundational project management theory to support successful execution.
• Identify and manage key project management tasks across the project life cycle.
• Use effective AI prompts and best practices to enhance planning and project work.
• Think about your organization in terms of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.