Artificial intelligence is already reshaping higher education. Approximately 85% of students and 84% of faculty and staff report using AI, and its influence extends across teaching, learning, research, and campus operations. As colleges and universities grapple with this rapidly evolving technology, governing boards have a critical responsibility to ensure their institutions respond in ways that advance their mission while preserving academic quality and integrity.
In Boards and Bots: A Guide to Artificial Intelligence for College Trustees, ACTA Senior Research Fellow Kyle Beltramini examines both the opportunities and challenges AI presents for higher education. Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, the guide argues that institutions must move beyond reactive responses to technological disruption. Rather than leaving AI policy to emerge piecemeal, trustees should provide thoughtful, mission-driven oversight that equips their institutions to adapt strategically.
To help boards fulfill this responsibility, the guide outlines eight practical steps trustees can take to oversee the adoption of artificial intelligence while respecting shared governance and supporting academic excellence:
• Assessing existing institutional AI policies and governance structures.
• Establishing a standing committee on technological affairs.
• Bringing together trustees, faculty, administrators, students, and external experts to evaluate AI implementation.
• Identifying institutional needs through campus-wide engagement.
• Adopting a board-level policy framework aligned with institutional mission.
• Developing minimum standards for AI use and disclosure while respecting academic freedom.
• Overseeing implementation, AI literacy, and faculty support.
• Remaining proactive as AI technologies continue to evolve.
Read the full guide HERE.
Published through ACTA’s Institute for Effective Governance®, this guide builds on ACTA’s longstanding work helping trustees fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities and promote academic excellence and accountability.
Launched in 1995, we are the only organization that works with alumni, donors, trustees, and education leaders across the United States to support liberal arts education, uphold high academic standards, safeguard the free exchange of ideas on campus, and ensure that the next generation receives an intellectually rich, high-quality college education at an affordable price.
Discover MoreSign up to receive updates on the most pressing issues facing our college campuses.