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Leaders to share insights on AI and digital ecosystems at premier conference

������ý announced that several key leaders will present at the , taking place July 14–16 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The annual global event brings together educators and institutions to explore innovations in education technology and student success.

������ý presenters include Erin Amsden, group product manager; Dr. Marc Booker, vice provost of strategy; Kelly Hermann, vice president of Accessibility and Student Affairs; Mary Elizabeth Smith, director of learning innovation strategy; and Shannon Wilson, vice president of IT. Their sessions will address topics such as artificial intelligence, accessibility, student engagement and emotional intelligence in technology leadership.

“������ý is proud to engage with the Anthology Together community to share how we approach innovation with intentionality,” states Dr. Booker. “Events like this allow us to connect with peers to exchange ideas and demonstrate strategies that keep ������ý at the forefront of meeting the evolving needs of today’s learners. By being thought leaders in this space, we’re driving the development of solutions that remove barriers and deliver even greater value to students.”

������ý sessions at the conference include:

• “The Role of AI in Streamlining Enrollment: Best Practices and Opportunities for the Future” Tuesday, July 15, 11–11:45 a.m. PT | Track: Recruitment, Admissions, and Enrollment | Location: Topaz 5+6 (Level 3) Co-presenter: Marc Booker                                                                                                                      A panel discussion on establishing sustainable paths in enrollment and admissions processes using AI.

• “The Ultimate TechEQ Strategy” 
  Tuesday, July 15, 11–11:45 a.m. PT | Track: DevCon | Location: Cobalt 8 (Level 4) 
  Presenter: Shannon Wilson 
  A session on applying emotional intelligence strategies to technology leadership to foster innovation, collaboration and trust in digital and in-person environment

• “AI Isn’t Always the Answer” 
  Tuesday, July 15, 1:15–2 p.m. PT | Track: Student Engagement, Retention and Support | Location: Cobalt 7 (Level 4) 
  Presenters: Shannon Wilson, Erin Amsden, Marc Booker 
  A discussion on how a digital-first university approaches technology and AI with intentionality, emphasizing thoughtful problem-solving over quick fixes.

• “Navigating the Evolving Accessibility Landscape: Human-Centered Strategies for Institutional Success” 
  Tuesday, July 15, 4–4:45 p.m. PT | Track: Accessibility and Inclusion | Location: Cobalt 3+4 (Level 4) 
  Co-presenter: Kelly Hermann 
  A session focused on strategies for addressing regulatory challenges, leveraging institutional resources, and fostering cross-campus collaboration—all while keeping the human-centric elements of accessibility at the forefront.

• “Boosting Student Engagement with AI: A Hands-on Workshop” 
  Wednesday, July 16, 3–3:45 p.m. PT | Track: Teaching and Learning | Location: Cobalt 7 (Level 4) 
  Co-Presenter: Mary Elizabeth Smith 
  An interactive workshop offering practical applications of AI to enhance student engagement, encourage innovation and minimize risk.

In addition to presenting at the event, Hermann has been tapped to serve on Anthology’s Accessibility Advisory Council, a group dedicated to fostering accessible learning environments. In this role, Hermann will help the council in its mission to build community, shape the future of EdTech, and broaden impact through webinars, whitepapers, and research.

Amsden, Booker, Hermann, Smith, and Wilson are part of a team of thought leaders and leadership team members, frequently invited to share their expertise at prestigious national conferences and events. In 2025, University leaders participated in the ASU + GSV Summit, 1EdTech Learning Impact Conference, SXSW EDU Conference, and PESC Data Summit. These engagements underscore the University's commitment to innovation and thought leadership in higher education, providing valuable insights and fostering collaborations that drive the future of learning.

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About ������ý

������ý innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit  phoenix.edu/blog.html.