In this episode of EDU Unlocked, Ashish Fernando sits down with Ryan Lufkin, Vice President of Global Learning Strategy at Instructure, to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education, why AI fluency matters more than AI expertise, and how educators can prepare students for an increasingly AI-driven workforce.

Ryan begins by reflecting on his unexpected journey into higher education. Originally planning a career in advertising, he joined one of the earliest education technology startups and quickly discovered the energy and purpose that campuses provide. More than two decades later, he continues to work with institutions around the world, helping them adopt technology in ways that genuinely improve teaching and learning.

The conversation explores one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding AI in education: that mastering prompts or using the latest tools is enough. Ryan argues that real learning still comes from human interaction. While AI can be an incredible tutor, research assistant, and productivity tool, it cannot replace the inspiration, mentorship, and curiosity that great educators create inside and outside the classroom.

Ashish and Ryan also discuss why universities must move beyond simply teaching students about AI. Instead, institutions should create authentic learning experiences where students solve real-world problems with AI, develop critical thinking skills, and learn when to trust technology and when to question it. AI fluency, Ryan explains, is becoming as fundamental as digital literacy.

The discussion also covers the rapid evolution of agentic AI, the growing importance of responsible AI adoption, and how higher education can balance innovation with academic integrity. Ryan emphasizes that educators shouldn't fear AI replacing them. Instead, they should focus on helping students become capable, adaptable professionals who know how to collaborate with intelligent systems.

The episode concludes with Ryan's perspective on the future of education: technology will continue to evolve rapidly, but the human connection between educators and learners will remain the foundation of meaningful learning.

In this episode of EDU Unlocked, Ashish Fernando sits down with Dr. Galin Jones, Inaugural Vice Provost for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Minnesota, to discuss AI literacy, workforce transformation, and the role higher education must play in preparing society for an AI-driven future.

Galin begins by sharing his unconventional journey into academia. After serving in the military and running his own business, he returned to college later in life, where an inspiring professor helped him discover a passion for mathematics, statistics, and computing. What started as a practical decision to study statistics eventually led him to become one of higher education's leading voices on artificial intelligence.

The conversation explores why universities have a responsibility that extends far beyond educating enrolled students. Galin explains the vision behind the University of Minnesota's AI Hub, an initiative designed to prepare not only students, but also educators, businesses, policymakers, and communities to navigate the opportunities and challenges AI will bring. From K-12 education to workforce upskilling and public engagement, the goal is to build AI resilience across an entire state.

Ashish and Galin also discuss AI literacy and why it is becoming an essential skill for every profession. While not everyone needs to become an AI engineer, Galin believes every graduate will need to understand how to effectively work alongside AI. He also shares why universities are uniquely positioned to lead conversations around ethics, governance, privacy, and responsible AI adoption.

Throughout the discussion, Galin emphasizes that successful AI adoption is not simply a technology challenge. It is equally a leadership and collaboration challenge that requires universities, industry, government, and communities to work together rather than in isolation.

The episode concludes with Galin's perspective on resilience in the age of AI. Rather than simply adapting to technological change, he believes individuals and institutions must develop the ability to evaluate, shape, and responsibly guide how AI impacts society.

In this episode of EDU Unlocked, Ashish Fernando sits down with Michael Brody, Director of University College at Illinois State University, to discuss student exploration, academic advising, the role of AI in higher education, and the leadership philosophy that guides his work.

Michael begins by sharing his unconventional path into higher education. He never envisioned himself becoming a university administrator, in fact, he originally dreamed of being a goalkeeper. His career direction changed after working as a research assistant and later serving in academic advising and residence life roles, where mentors helped shape his professional journey. Through those experiences, he discovered a passion for helping students navigate their college experience and achieve success.

The conversation then turns to one of higher education's most persistent challenges: supporting undecided students. Michael challenges the notion that undecided students are a problem to be solved. Instead, he argues that exploration is an essential part of the college experience. He discusses the increasing pressure students face to choose majors quickly, often driven by concerns about return on investment, and explains why institutions must create opportunities for meaningful exploration and self-discovery.

Ashish and Michael also explore the growing role of AI in academic advising. Michael outlines three core competencies of advising: conceptual, relational, and informational and explains how AI can enhance the informational side of advising by helping students access answers, review degree plans, and prepare for advising conversations. However, he emphasises that technology should create more space for meaningful human interactions, not replace them.

Throughout the discussion, Michael returns to a central theme: students want to know that someone genuinely cares about their success. While AI can improve efficiency, the relationships between students and advisors remain at the heart of effective advising.

The episode concludes with Michael's leadership mantra: "Actions over Outcomes." He explains why focusing on the quality of our actions, our effort, sincerity, and commitment to serving students ultimately matters more than chasing outcomes that may be beyond our control.