Conference Key Note

Thursday, November 7, 2024
10:00a.m - Noon

AI Revolution in IR/IE: Empowering Small Offices for Big Impact

Dr. Mike Urmeneta Presenter: Dr. Mike Urmeneta  

Abstract:
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the landscape of higher education, institutional research and institutional effectiveness (IR/IE) offices face both unprecedented challenges and extraordinary opportunities. This keynote, delivered by Dr. Mike Urmeneta, draws from cutting-edge developments in AI, recent experiences at Manhattan University, and extensive consulting work with The Urmeneta Group to explore how even small, resource-constrained IR/IE offices can harness the power of AI to amplify their impact.

Key topics to be covered include:

  • The State of AI in Higher Education: An up-to-the-minute overview of AI applications in IR/IE, including the latest developments as of October 2024.
  • AI Solutions for Overwhelmed Offices: Practical strategies for leveraging AI to manage increasing demands and competing priorities in small IR/IE teams, informed by both institutional and consulting experiences.
  • Democratizing Advanced Analytics: How AI tools can level the playing field, allowing smaller institutions to perform sophisticated analyses previously reserved for large research universities.
  • Ethical Considerations and Data Governance: Navigating the complex ethical landscape of AI implementation while maintaining robust data governance practices, with insights from diverse institutional contexts.
  • AI-Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: Innovative approaches to using AI for improving data visualization, predictive modeling, and communication with diverse institutional stakeholders.
  • Case Studies from the Field: Real-world examples from Manhattan University and consulting engagements, demonstrating successful AI integration in resource-constrained environments across various types of institutions.
  • The Future of IR/IE: A forward-looking discussion on how AI will continue to evolve and shape the role of IR/IE professionals in the coming years, based on trends observed in both institutional and consulting work.
  • Attendees will gain practical insights into how they can begin or advance their AI journey, regardless of their institution's size or resources. Dr. Urmeneta will provide actionable strategies for implementing AI solutions that address common pain points in IR/IE offices, from automating routine tasks to generating deep, actionable insights from institutional data.

Drawing from a wealth of experience both as an institutional leader and a consultant, this keynote promises to be an engaging exploration of AI's transformative potential in IR/IE, offering both inspiration and practical takeaways. Join us to discover how your office can ride the wave of the AI revolution and maximize its impact on institutional decision-making and student success, learning from a wide array of institutional experiences and consulting engagements.

Speaker Bio: 

Dr. Mike Urmeneta is an award-winning data strategy leader and education researcher with nearly three decades of experience. Specializing in data-informed decision-making and institutional effectiveness, he has significantly impacted numerous universities. Recognized by top organizations like AIR, NACUBO, and EDUCAUSE, Mike excels in building strong stakeholder relationships and driving strategic initiatives.

As the Director of Institutional Research at Manhattan University and founder of The Urmeneta Group, Mike empowers educational leaders to harness data for improved outcomes. He also serves as an instructor at AIR's Data Literacy Institute, further extending his influence in the field. As a sought-after speaker and author on AI's practical and responsible use, he has shared insights through keynotes, webinars, and publications, including the AIR Professional File.

Previously, as the Director of Analytics at NYIT, he provided strategic guidance to enhance institutional policies and student success. Mike's expertise in leveraging advanced analytics and AI for institutional improvement makes him a valuable voice in the evolving landscape of higher education.

Mike's academic credentials include a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, an M.S. in Management from NYU, and a Doctor of Education from Northeastern University, where he was honored with the Dean's Medal for Outstanding Doctoral Work for his research on first-generation college students.