The Plexuss Presidential Podcast

The Plexuss Presidential Podcast

By PLEXUSS

Welcome to the Plexuss Presidential Podcast, where we sit down with forward-thinking leaders in higher education to explore the ideas shaping today—and the innovations driving tomorrow.

Season 3 dives deep into the intersection of AI, education, and the future of the workforce, featuring bold conversations with presidents and changemakers across the country.
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Episode 28 - Dr. Christine Riordan, President of Adelphi University

The Plexuss Presidential PodcastOct 23, 2021
00:00
41:36
3.10. Dr. Matt Thompson - Kansas Wesleyan University

3.10. Dr. Matt Thompson - Kansas Wesleyan University

Dr. JP Novin welcomes President Matt Thompson to the podcast and highlights Thompson’s significant achievements at Kansas Wesleyan University. President Matt Thompson discusses the transformative impact of AI on future employment, higher education, and curriculum—emphasizing the need to return to liberal arts education and strengthen foundational K–12 skills. He also shares how Kansas Wesleyan is proactively integrating AI into its operations and teaching methodologies to prepare students and staff for an AI-driven world.

Jul 25, 202532:19
3.9. Dr. Brendan Kelly - Arkansas State University System

3.9. Dr. Brendan Kelly - Arkansas State University System

JP Novin welcomes Dr. Brendan Kelly to the podcast, where President Kelly explains the ASU System’s mandate to operate as an ecosystem—focused on efficiency and value creation for students, employers, and the state of Arkansas. President Kelly views AI as a tool for faster learning and problem-solving, not a replacement for human capabilities. He emphasizes that education should prepare students with versatile skills for future careers, acknowledging that AI is already disrupting entry-level jobs and fields like finance and engineering. Together, they explore the ASU System’s approach to aligning with industry needs, the rapid adoption of AI in boardrooms, and the evolving regulatory landscape and academic programs.


Jul 21, 202545:43
3.8. Dr. Mohamed Abousalem - Keck Graduate Institute

3.8. Dr. Mohamed Abousalem - Keck Graduate Institute

The guest of Season 3, Episode 8 is Dr. Mohammed Abousalem, president of Keck Graduate Institute (KGI). In this conversation, Dr. Abousalem discusses how KGI is reimagining education at the intersection of AI, biotechnology, and entrepreneurship. As a leader in global innovation and a key voice in California’s life sciences ecosystem, he shares how KGI is preparing students not just for today’s workforce, but for the rapidly evolving challenges of tomorrow—by blending cutting-edge science with a bold new learning model.


Jul 18, 202543:56
3.7. Dr. Matthew Draud - Briar Cliff University

3.7. Dr. Matthew Draud - Briar Cliff University

President Matthew Draud and Dr. JP Novin explore AI’s transformative impact on the workforce, emphasizing the need for higher education to prioritize critical thinking and ethical AI use. They discuss how regulatory compliance may slow AI adoption in certain fields, the challenges universities face in adapting curricula to keep pace with AI’s rapid development, and the potential for AI to reshape degree granting and accreditation. Key topics include AI’s effects on specific industries, understanding the limitations of AI models, strategies to prepare students for future careers, and the broader societal implications of AI-driven job displacement.

Jul 14, 202546:15
3.6. Dr. Gregory Jones - Belmont University

3.6. Dr. Gregory Jones - Belmont University

In Episode 6 of Season 3, Dr. Gregory Jones, President of Belmont University, explores the pervasive impact of AI across every vocation and field. He emphasizes the importance of viewing AI as a tool to enhance humanity and highlights the need to equip students with a strong foundation in the liberal arts to prepare them for the future of work.
President Jones discusses Belmont University’s current strategies, including the Belmont Data and AI Collaborative, and the university’s commitment to ethical leadership in an era of rapid technological advancement. He also notes Nashville’s strong economic ecosystem as a catalyst for AI and data center growth.
Addressing barriers to AI adoption—particularly in regulated industries—Dr. Jones advocates for more nimble intellectual property regulation and calls for a transformation in degree-granting models, emphasizing the importance of perpetual learning and competency-based education.

Jul 11, 202533:30
3.5. Tarek M. Sobh - Lawrence Technological University

3.5. Tarek M. Sobh - Lawrence Technological University

Our guest for Season 3, Episode 5 is Tarek M. Sobh, Ph.D., President of Lawrence Technological University. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing the workforce, urging lifelong learning and foundational skills as traditional roles and educational applications evolve. Dr. Sobh emphasizes the unique opportunity of technological universities like Lawrence Tech to prep students for a tech-driven economy and advocates for stronger ties between industry and education to deliver work-ready graduates. He also highlights the critical importance of early STEM engagement and inclusive access in meeting the growing demand for tech professionals—and predicts significant transformation in future educational models.

Jul 07, 202541:43
3.4. Robyn Hannigan, Ph.D. - Ursinus College

3.4. Robyn Hannigan, Ph.D. - Ursinus College

Our guest for Season 3, Episode 4 of the Plexuss Presidential Podcast is Robyn Hannigan, Ph.D., President of Ursinus College. She shares how AI is set to profoundly impact every aspect of work—not by replacing jobs, but by augmenting them—and emphasizes the essential role of a liberal arts education in preparing students for that future. President Hannigan highlights Ursinus College’s holistic approach, including the Apex program and Common Intellectual Experience, both of which integrate AI ethics and career readiness. She also addresses the regulatory challenges surrounding AI and the important role philosophy majors can play in shaping ethical frameworks. Ursinus stands out by connecting first-year students with career coaches and exposing them to diverse career pathways from day one.

Jul 03, 202532:59
3.3. Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. - Old Dominion University

3.3. Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. - Old Dominion University

Episode 3 welcomes President Brian Hemphill of Old Dominion University to explore how AI is reshaping higher education—from the classroom to the workplace. President Hemphill discusses ODU’s innovative initiatives, including the Monarch Mind AI platform, AI-integrated general education, specialized certificate programs, and the university’s centennial cluster initiative to recruit AI-focused faculty. Led by the Division of Digital Transformation and Technology under Vice President Nina Rodriguez Gonzer, these efforts reflect ODU’s commitment to preparing students for the future through a competency-based, innovation-driven approach.

Jun 30, 202533:59
3.2. William "Rusty" Kennedy - Andrew College

3.2. William "Rusty" Kennedy - Andrew College

William R. Kennedy, President of Andrew College, joins JP Novin to discuss the college’s history, its business-oriented approach to higher education, and the accelerating impact of AI on the workforce. They explore how institutions like Andrew College are adapting—examining strategies for AI integration, the evolving role of the humanities, potential shifts in curriculum and degree structures, and the value of balancing in-person and hybrid learning.

Jun 13, 202550:51
3.1. Thom Chesney - Southwestern College

3.1. Thom Chesney - Southwestern College

JP Novin welcomed President Thom Chesney to discuss the impact of AI on higher education and the future workforce. Thom Chesney shared insights on Southwestern College's mission and their approach to integrating AI awareness into curricula, emphasizing engagement and exploration of AI as a tool to augment human roles across various fields, from clinical processes to administrative tasks. Discussions also covered strategies for student career readiness, the board's perspective on AI, potential barriers to AI adoption, the impact on academic programs and degree structures, and a vision for future-facing, partnership-based learning.

Jun 06, 202548:31
Season 3 Trailer: AI, Education & the Future of Work

Season 3 Trailer: AI, Education & the Future of Work

This season, we're exploring how AI is transforming education, leadership, and the future of the workforce.

May 13, 202500:27
Episode #189 - Dr. Greg Jones, President, Belmont University

Episode #189 - Dr. Greg Jones, President, Belmont University

Dr. Greg Jones, President, Belmont University, joins Brad Johnson

Jul 29, 202416:19
Episode #188 - Dr. Diane Lovell, President, Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Episode #188 - Dr. Diane Lovell, President, Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Dr. Diane Lovell, President, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jul 25, 202424:56
Episode #187 - Dr. Kenneth R. Evans, President, Oklahoma City University

Episode #187 - Dr. Kenneth R. Evans, President, Oklahoma City University

Dr. Kenneth R. Evans, President, Oklahoma City University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jun 27, 202431:11
Episode #186 - Dr. Michael Frandsen, President, Wittenberg University

Episode #186 - Dr. Michael Frandsen, President, Wittenberg University

Dr. Michael Frandsen, President, Wittenberg University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jun 27, 202429:31
Episode #185 - Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President, Chowan University

Episode #185 - Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President, Chowan University

Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President, Chowan University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jun 12, 202435:10
Episode #184 - Dr. Douglas Mann, President, Bryan College

Episode #184 - Dr. Douglas Mann, President, Bryan College

Dr. Douglas Mann, President, Bryan College, joins Brad Johnson.

Jun 12, 202424:34
Episode #183 - Suzy Siegle & Tom Petz, President & CEO / Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Walsh College

Episode #183 - Suzy Siegle & Tom Petz, President & CEO / Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Walsh College

Suzy Siegle & Tom Petz, President & CEO / Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Walsh College, join Brad Johnson.

Jun 12, 202430:40
Episode #182 - Jose Marie Griffiths, President, Dakota State University

Episode #182 - Jose Marie Griffiths, President, Dakota State University

Jose Marie Griffiths, President, Dakota State University, joins Brad Johnson.

Apr 05, 202421:02
Episode #181 - Roger Hughes, President, Doane University

Episode #181 - Roger Hughes, President, Doane University

Roger Hughes, President, Doane University, joins Brad Johnson.

Apr 03, 202432:13
Episode #180 - Dr. Kathryn Morris, President, St. Lawrence University

Episode #180 - Dr. Kathryn Morris, President, St. Lawrence University

Dr. Kathryn Morris, President, St. Lawrence University, joins Brad Johnson.

Apr 03, 202420:47
Episode #179 - Dr. Gene Fant Jr., President, North Greenville University

Episode #179 - Dr. Gene Fant Jr., President, North Greenville University

Dr. Gene Fant Jr., President, North Greenville University, joins Brad Johnson.

Mar 27, 202435:33
Episode #178 - Dr. Tiffany Franks, President, Averett University

Episode #178 - Dr. Tiffany Franks, President, Averett University

Dr. Tiffany Franks, President, Averett University, joins Brad Johnson.

Mar 27, 202434:58
Episode #177 - Dr. Emily Messer, President, Texas Wesleyan University

Episode #177 - Dr. Emily Messer, President, Texas Wesleyan University

Dr. Emily Messer, President, Texas Wesleyan University, joins Brad Johnson.

Feb 07, 202420:50
Episode #176 - Dr. Jesse Peters, President, Western Oregon University

Episode #176 - Dr. Jesse Peters, President, Western Oregon University

Dr. Jesse Peters, President, Western Oregon University, joins Brad Johnson.

Feb 07, 202429:08
Episode #175 - Andy Armacost, President, University of North Dakota

Episode #175 - Andy Armacost, President, University of North Dakota

Andy Armacost, President, University of North Dakota, joins Brad Johnson.

Feb 07, 202427:44
Episode #174 - Dr. Dondi Costin, President, Liberty University

Episode #174 - Dr. Dondi Costin, President, Liberty University

Dr. Dondi Costin, President, Liberty University, joins Brad Johnson.

Feb 07, 202442:18
Episode #173 - Dr. Kent Trachte, President, Lycoming College

Episode #173 - Dr. Kent Trachte, President, Lycoming College

Dr. Kent Trachte, President, Lycoming College, joins Brad Johnson.

Jan 24, 202447:02
Episode #172 - Jennifer Cowley, President, The University of Texas at Arlington

Episode #172 - Jennifer Cowley, President, The University of Texas at Arlington

Jennifer Cowley, President of the University of Texas at Arlington, joins Brad Johnson.

Jan 23, 202420:42
Episode #171 - Dr. Daniel Wubah, President, Millersville University

Episode #171 - Dr. Daniel Wubah, President, Millersville University

Dr. Daniel Wubah, President, Millersville University, joins Brad Johnson.

Dec 22, 202329:26
Episode #170 - Dr. Lynn Priddy, President, Claremont Lincoln University

Episode #170 - Dr. Lynn Priddy, President, Claremont Lincoln University

Dr. Lynn Priddy, President of Claremont Lincoln University, joins Brad Johnson.

Dec 22, 202336:29
Episode #169 - Dr. Jeff Abernathy, President, Alma College

Episode #169 - Dr. Jeff Abernathy, President, Alma College

Dr. Jeff Abernathy, President, Alma College, joins Brad Johnson.

Nov 17, 202332:23
Episode #168 - Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, President, Alvernia University

Episode #168 - Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, President, Alvernia University

Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, President, Alvernia University, joins Brad Johnson.

Nov 17, 202325:24
Episode #167 - Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper, President, Springfield College

Episode #167 - Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper, President, Springfield College

Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper, President, Springfield College, joins Brad Johnson.

Nov 17, 202329:27
Episode #166 - Dean Collins, President, Point University

Episode #166 - Dean Collins, President, Point University

Dean Collins, President, Point University, joins Brad Johnson

Nov 16, 202328:42
Episode #165 - Dr. Barbara McMillan, President, Blue Mountain Christian University

Episode #165 - Dr. Barbara McMillan, President, Blue Mountain Christian University

Dr. Barbara McMillan, President, Blue Mountain Christian University, joins Brad Johnson.

Oct 12, 202332:52
Episode #164 - Dr. Thomas Burns & Brian Hazlett, President & Vice President of Enrollment Management, York College of Pennsylvania

Episode #164 - Dr. Thomas Burns & Brian Hazlett, President & Vice President of Enrollment Management, York College of Pennsylvania

Dr. Thomas Burns & Brian Hazlett, President & Vice President of Enrollment Management, York College of Pennsylvania, join Brad Johnson.

Oct 12, 202331:33
Episode #163 - Andrew T. Hsu, President, College of Charleston

Episode #163 - Andrew T. Hsu, President, College of Charleston

Andrew T. Hsu, President, College of Charleston, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 25, 202331:42
Episode #162 - Dr. Debra Schwinn, President, Palm Beach Atlantic University

Episode #162 - Dr. Debra Schwinn, President, Palm Beach Atlantic University

Dr. Debra Schwinn, President, Palm Beach Atlantic University, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 21, 202333:19
Episode #161 - Jeff Morin, President, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Episode #161 - Jeff Morin, President, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Jeff Morin, President, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design joins, Brad Johnson.

Sep 21, 202337:53
Episode #160 - Dr. Maurice Scherrens, President, Newberry College

Episode #160 - Dr. Maurice Scherrens, President, Newberry College

Dr. Maurice Scherrens, President, Newberry College, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 19, 202337:36
Episode #159 - Jim Collins, President, Loras College

Episode #159 - Jim Collins, President, Loras College

Jim Collins, President, Loras College, joins Brad Johnson!

Sep 14, 202319:15
Episode #158 - Marvin Krislov, President, Pace University

Episode #158 - Marvin Krislov, President, Pace University

Marvin Krislov, President, Pace University, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 14, 202336:26
Episode #157 - Deanne D'Emilio, President, Gwynedd Mercy University

Episode #157 - Deanne D'Emilio, President, Gwynedd Mercy University

Deanne D'Emilio, President, Gwynedd Mercy University, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 12, 202326:57
Episode #156 - Dr. Albert Mosley, President, Morningside University

Episode #156 - Dr. Albert Mosley, President, Morningside University

Dr. Albert Mosley, President of Morningside University, joins Brad Johnson.

Sep 05, 202335:30
Episode #155 - Dr. Brian Ralph, President, William Peace University

Episode #155 - Dr. Brian Ralph, President, William Peace University

Dr. Brian Ralph, President, William Peace University, joins Brad Johnson.

Aug 31, 202318:02
Episode #154 - Ronald Matthews, President, Eastern University

Episode #154 - Ronald Matthews, President, Eastern University

Ronald Matthews, President, Eastern University, joins Brad Johnson!

Jul 28, 202333:23
Episode #153 - Chris Brussalis, President, Point Park University

Episode #153 - Chris Brussalis, President, Point Park University

Chris Brussalis, President, Point Park University, joins Brad Johnson!

Jul 26, 202322:44
Episode #152 - John Jackson, President, Jessup University

Episode #152 - John Jackson, President, Jessup University

John Jackson, President, Jessup University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jul 05, 202321:13
Episode #151 - Timothy Pinnow, President, Finlandia University

Episode #151 - Timothy Pinnow, President, Finlandia University

Timothy Pinnow, President, Finlandia University, joins Brad Johnson.

Jun 13, 202324:13