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rtificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping higher education, creating new opportunities for teaching, learning, research, and institutional effectiveness. Recognizing both the promise and the responsibility that accompany this technological transformation, Albizu University was selected to participate in the year-long Institute on AI, Pedagogy, and the Curriculum sponsored by the American Association of Colleges and Universities.
From its inception, the Institute was designed as a collaborative, community-wide initiative focusing on innovation and transformation. Through the Albizu AI Committee, the institution brings together representatives from academic affairs, information technology, clinical training, and all academic locations of the University. The committee includes Dr. Berta Ríos (Chief Academic Officer), Dr. Antonio Llorens (Chief Information Officer), Dr. Brien Ashdown (Miami Campus), Dr. Andres Cruz (San Juan Campus), Dr. Adam Rosario (San Juan Campus), Dr. Sally Quiñones (Albizu Clinic, San Juan Campus), Dr. Arlene Vélez (San Juan Campus), Dr. Melissa Bezares (Albizu Clinic, Mayagüez University Center), Lic. Grelaine Rodríguez (Mayagüez University Center), and Mr. José Gándara (Information Technology Manager). Through this cross-functional structure, the University has been able to engage diverse perspectives and ensure that AI initiatives align with Albizu’s academic mission, clinical training priorities, technological infrastructure, and commitment to student success.
“The Institute was designed as a collaborative, community-wide initiative focusing on innovation and transformation”
During the 2025–2026 academic year, the Institute achieved several important milestones. The initiative was formally presented to the President’s Cabinet, establishing executive-level support and institutional commitment. To further promote dialogue and shared learning, the University hosted faculty forums on both the San Juan and Miami campuses. Faculty engagement became a central focus, resulting in the launch by Albizu’s Center of Digital Learning Innovation of the Albizu AI in Higher Education Workshop Series, which attracted more than 200 faculty participants. The series, presented by nationally recognized AI expert Dr. C. Edward Watson, explored practical and evidence-based applications of AI in teaching and learning through sessions such as Developing Critical Thinking Skills by Leveraging AI, AI to Improve Classes and Courses: Evidence-Based Practices that Promote Learning, and Teaching to Promote AI Literacy.
To further advance innovation and applied learning, Albizu University is sponsoring four institutional AI Innovation Grants. These projects are designed to explore practical applications of artificial intelligence in teaching, learning, clinical training, and institutional effectiveness. The initiatives include Lifespan AI Journal – Integrating ChatGPT for Reflective, Contextualized Learning Across the Human Development Cycle, led by Dr. Yahaira Segarra; the Clinical-AI: Enhancing Clinical Reasoning and Documentation in Speech-Language Pathology through Artificial Intelligence, led by Dr. Alberto Avilés; the BoodleBox Evaluation Project, led by Dr. Berta Ríos and Mr. José Gándara; and the AI Hackathon, led by Dr. Adam Rosario.
“These projects are designed to explore practical applications of artificial intelligence”
Looking ahead, Albizu has developed an ambitious roadmap for continued growth. Key initiatives include the development of faculty and student AI certification programs, the creation of an AI-enhanced course designation, and the implementation of an institutional AI literacy model. Additional priorities include developing AI guidelines, creating a comprehensive AI resource repository, launching a dedicated digital innovation website, and expanding the workshop series through a second installment focused on advanced applications and emerging trends.
As Albizu University continues this journey, we are guided by three central questions: How can AI be leveraged to strengthen critical thinking rather than replace it?, How do we create momentum? and How do we sustain and scale innovation? Through collaboration, professional development, thoughtful governance, and commitment to student success, Albizu is positioning itself not merely to adapt to the age of AI, but to help shape its future in higher education.
