Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., delivered a keynote address at the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) 2024 Conference in Beijing. The event focused on the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance equity and support student success globally.
The conference, marking its 20th year, brought together university leaders and educators from around the world to discuss trends and challenges in higher education. This year’s theme centered on AI’s impact on teaching, research, and student outcomes.
Repollet stated, “It is an honor to speak to this esteemed group of international leaders about a topic that holds such promise for the future of education.” He described AI as a revolutionary tool capable of fostering equity and transforming student engagement.
He highlighted Kean University’s commitment to international collaboration in building inclusive education systems. Kean operates Wenzhou-Kean University in China and has partnerships in Brazil, Italy, South Korea, among others. “Together, we are committed to using AI to create a global education network where learning is not limited by boundaries but defined by possibilities,” he said.
President Repollet led Kean University’s team at the IAUP Conference. Other notable speakers included Prof. Michael Levitt, Ph.D., a Nobel Laureate from 2013; Prof. Zongkai Yang, Ph.D., president of Wuhan University of Technology; with Tomás Morales, Ph.D., president of California State University moderating the session.
Kean is actively working on several AI initiatives aimed at supporting student success through predictive analytics and streamlining advising processes. Their Career Services team is integrating an AI-based platform for personalized resume feedback and interview preparation.
During his speech, Repollet discussed how AI can improve equity by providing real-time resources to struggling students and eliminating bias in grading and admissions processes. “AI has the power to help close achievement gaps,” he said.
Repollet stressed the importance of careful oversight when integrating AI into educational institutions to avoid perpetuating biases or widening digital divides. He emphasized ethical use while maintaining data privacy and digital equity as priorities.
Looking forward, Repollet urged international leaders to embrace AI as a bridge connecting institutions worldwide. He envisioned seamless collaboration between students across different countries using AI tools overcoming language barriers and time zone differences.
“At Kean and Wenzhou-Kean,” he concluded, “we are preparing students for a future where learning is borderless.”
