Birthplace: Kenova, W.V.
Commission Role: Co-Chair
Professional Background: President, Marshall University, 2021-present; President & CEO, Intuit, 2008-2019 
Favorite AI App or Use: Collaborating on creative writing
Hobbies Outside of Work and AI: Physical fitness, martial arts, reading, writing poetry, playing guitar and sax

Why did you want to be involved in the commission, and what has your experience been like so far?

I’ve always believed that education should be at the forefront of innovation, and AI represents one of the most significant advancements in our lifetime. When the opportunity arose to co-chair the SREB Commission on AI, I saw it as a chance to help shape the future of education in a way that harnesses the power of this technology while ensuring it serves our students and educators. My experience on the commission has been both challenging and inspiring. It’s not just about understanding AI’s potential, but about creating a framework that guides its ethical and effective use in our educational institutions. Working alongside other forward-thinking leaders has reaffirmed my belief that we must embrace AI—not as a threat, but as a tool that can enhance the educational experience for everyone involved. 

How might AI change what we teach?

I’ve had the pleasure of learning from Sal Kahn, the founder of Kahn Academy, and it’s been incredible to see how AI has and will change the way we learn and teach. Things are truly changing at a rapid pace – and as educators, it’s our responsibility to ensure our curriculum evolves to reflect these changes. This means a lot of things, but first, it means integrating AI literacy into all of our academic programs. Our students need to understand how AI works and how it can be applied in their respective fields – but first their instructors need to understand it as well. At Marshall University for example, we’re creating new courses focusing on AI ethics, data science, and machine learning across various disciplines. Additionally, traditional subjects are being reimagined with AI’s influence in mind, preparing students for a future where understanding and interacting with AI will be essential. 

“I’ve always believed that education should be at the forefront of innovation, and AI represents one of the most significant advancements in our lifetime.” –Smith 

How might AI change how we teach?

It isn’t a matter of if but when that AI will revolutionize the way we approach teaching by providing an adaptive learning experience capable of true personalization. Imagine a classroom where each student’s learning pace, style, and strengths are continuously assessed – allowing the instructor to tailor lessons accordingly. AI will also help in administrative tasks, potentially freeing up more time for educators to focus on teaching and engaging with students – which is truly where the magic happens in higher education. At Marshall, we’ve already taken steps by requiring AI policies in every syllabus, ensuring that both students and faculty are aware of how to leverage AI effectively and responsibly in their academic pursuits. 

Do you believe AI can support educators without diminishing human interaction and emotional intelligence in the classroom?

Absolutely. While AI can handle data-driven tasks and provide personalized learning experiences, it cannot replace the human elements that are crucial in education—empathy, mentorship, and the ability to inspire. As we explore the ways we’ll utilize AI and ways we won’t, we are constantly aware of AI’s impact in the classroom  – it is a complement to the educator, enhancing their ability to reach and support students – it does not and cannot replicate the human connection that remains at the heart of effective teaching. It’s about finding the right balance and ensuring that AI is used to amplify, not replace, the human touch in the classroom. 

How might the work of this commission change the course of AI in education?

The work we’re doing on the commission is laying the groundwork for how AI can be integrated into education in a way that is ethical, inclusive, and beneficial to all. By developing guidelines, policies, and best practices, we’re setting a standard that can be adopted by institutions across the country. Our goal is to ensure that AI enhances educational opportunities instead of inadvertently advacningadvancing existing inequalities. This commission has a big responsibility – to steer the conversation around AI in education, making sure it’s used as a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion. This really excites me.  

Anything else you would like to share?

As we continue to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, it’s important to remember that our commitment to our students remains our top priority. At Marshall, we’re proud to be early adopters in the AI space, but we’re also mindful of the responsibility that comes with it. We continue to ask tough questions, explore new possibilities, and ensure that every decision we make is in the best interest of our students. The future of education is being shaped right now, and I’m excited to see it play out in real time.