Public university embraces responsible, innovative and inclusive AI adoption

Client need

A public, historically Black university sought help utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate high-impact research, increase grant competitiveness, elevate their profile as an innovation leader and enhance learning and student success.  

Baker Tilly’s solution-driven approach

Our approach began by anchoring all AI initiatives firmly within the university’s mission of academic excellence, social equity and community impact. Through executive workshops, we facilitated alignment among university leadership, ensuring that every AI strategy reinforced the university’s commitment to student success, diversity and ethical leadership.  

During the workshop, we established the principles for a robust AI governance framework that engaged an inclusive steering committee representing faculty, students, information technology (IT), legal and the administration. This structure enabled transparent decision-making and proactive risk management, ensuring all AI deployments complied with regulatory and ethical standards. Baker Tilly developed an AI ethics charter and operational guidelines prioritizing transparency, fairness, privacy and security to support responsible AI use further. These measures positioned the university as a model for responsible AI adoption in higher education, fostering trust among internal and external stakeholders. 

Baker Tilly shared insights on how AI-powered personalized learning platforms and accessibility tools could help close achievement gaps and support diverse learners. The expected return is to improve student engagement, retention and outcomes while ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities. From a research perspective, Baker Tilly recommended launching interdisciplinary AI research clusters and seed funding programs, connecting faculty across academic disciplines. 

Results achieved

As a result of these integrated efforts, the university is now positioned as a leader in responsible, innovative and inclusive AI adoption. The strategic principles and governance structures established during this engagement provide a strong foundation for the university’s continued success — advancing academic excellence, operational effectiveness and student opportunity in the AI era. 

Further, implementing AI-driven analytics for enrollment management, resource allocation and administrative automation advanced operational efficiency. These initiatives reduced costs, improved decision-making and allowed staff to focus on mission-critical activities. Recognizing the importance of workforce readiness, Baker Tilly developed AI literacy curricula and training for students, faculty and staff, complemented by industry partnerships for experiential learning. This comprehensive approach prepared the university community for an AI-driven workforce, enhancing employability and institutional competitiveness.