Generation AI

ASU's AI Strategy, Digital Workforce, and the End of Frankenstein Tech

Episode Summary

In this insightful episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu speak with Lev Gonick, CIO of Arizona State University, about how AI is reshaping higher education technology systems. Gonick shares ASU's innovative approach to AI implementation, discussing their transition from fragmented "Frankenstein" tech systems to a more integrated architecture using AI agents. He explains how ASU is already deploying orchestrated AI agents across campus operations - from parking to financial aid to classroom instruction - and offers a practical vision for how universities can adapt to this technological shift. This conversation is essential listening for higher education professionals looking to understand how AI can transform student experiences and institutional operations.

Episode Notes

In this insightful episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu speak with Lev Gonick, CIO of Arizona State University, about how AI is reshaping higher education technology systems. Gonick shares ASU's innovative approach to AI implementation, discussing their transition from fragmented "Frankenstein" tech systems to a more integrated architecture using AI agents. He explains how ASU is already deploying orchestrated AI agents across campus operations - from parking to financial aid to classroom instruction - and offers a practical vision for how universities can adapt to this technological shift. This conversation is essential listening for higher education professionals looking to understand how AI can transform student experiences and institutional operations.

The Current State of University Technology Systems (00:00:25)

• Discussion of universities as technology "Frankensteins" with disconnected systems
• Gonick explains ASU's dual approach to AI: both as additional tools and as potential unifiers
• The challenge of balancing pragmatic immediate needs with long-term integration goals
• ASU's outlook on technology focuses on opportunity and abundance rather than scarcity

The Timeline for Technology Transformation in Higher Education (00:02:14)

• Gonick suggests the transition away from fragmented systems could take "a generation or two"
• ASU positions itself as an outlier and model for what a "new American university" can look like
• The importance of proving what's possible by implementing future-focused solutions today
• ASU's commitment to focusing on "the future today" rather than waiting for perfect solutions

ASU's Leadership in AI Implementation (00:03:45)

• Reference to ASU's publication documenting their AI journey with 40+ implementation stories
• Discussion of ASU's mindset that emphasizes growth and innovation
• Gonick quotes Alan Kay: "If you want to predict the future, invent it"
• ASU's philosophy: "If you want to invent the future, start" - emphasizing action over debate

AI's Transformation of Higher Education (00:05:33)

• Gonick argues AI represents a "tectonic shift" that will redefine not just how we teach but what we teach
• Many universities are stuck in an academic debate rather than testing and experimenting
• ASU's approach involves real-world testing while adhering to principles of innovation
• The need for agile, iterative approaches to AI implementation similar to software development

The Evolution from Generative AI to AI Agents (00:08:57)

• Reflection on the past year's progress from classroom-focused generative AI to agent-based systems
• Gonick suggests current generative AI implementations will eventually be seen as "prehistory"
• Discussion of how voice and video AI experiences may create economic value in education
• The emergence of "agentic" AI systems where multiple specialized agents work together

ASU's Current Work with AI Agents (00:11:35)

• ASU has developed approximately a dozen purpose-built AI agents for different functions
• These agents are now being orchestrated to work together rather than operating independently
• Examples include agents for syllabus creation, assessment, skills development, and career opportunities
• Discussion of the need for "Centurion" agents to ensure privacy, security and ethical use

AI Applications in Campus Operations (00:14:52)

• ASU is implementing agentic AI experiences in back-office operations like parking management
• Plans for teaching and learning agent implementations starting in August for the new school year
• Development of pedagogy agents that support different teaching methods (Socratic, case method, etc.)
• Financial aid navigation as another major area where AI agents are improving student and family experiences

The Digital Workforce and Organizational Change (00:20:49)

• Discussion of AI agents functioning as a "digital workforce" that requires management
• The need to rearchitect how work is done in university settings
• Human resistance to change as a major challenge in AI implementation
• ASU's approach to helping employees transition to new roles through upskilling and reskilling programs

The Near Future of AI in Higher Education (00:24:47)

• Discussion of the impact of politics and regulations on AI implementation
• ASU's view of challenges as opportunities and their focus on adaptability
• The concept of building "anti-fragile" institutions that not only survive disruption but thrive
• The importance of planning with a longer horizon while remaining agile