The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities recently convened educational leaders, industry experts, and students for a high-level dialogue centered on the intersection of advanced technology and higher education. The organization hosted a prominent town hall titled "Ready or Not: Thriving in the New Age of AI," which took place during a landmark gathering in Colorado. The session served as a focal point for discussing how academic institutions, particularly those dedicated to supporting Hispanic learners, can navigate the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into modern society.
The panel discussion was moderated by Audrey Stewart, head of operations for a private equity-backed company, who guided the conversation through complex themes surrounding technological adoption. The distinguished panel featured Manhattanville University President Frank Sanchez; Los Angeles Community College District Chancellor Alberto J. Román; and Pearson Vice President of Digital Product Daniel Altabello. Together, these leaders examined the multifaceted role of artificial intelligence in contemporary education.
Discussions during the event focused closely on the opportunities, challenges, and transformative impact of AI across multiple pillars of the academic ecosystem, including teaching, learning, student success, and workforce preparation. With a particular emphasis on Hispanic-Serving Institutions, the conversation addressed the critical need for AI ethics, responsible innovation, and thoughtful guardrails. Speakers emphasized that while technology offers unprecedented pathways for growth and efficiency, institutions must implement protective measures that safeguard students, local communities, and the broader academic environment while continuously expanding opportunities for all learners.
Beyond high-level administrative and industry perspectives, the town hall also elevated the voices and creations of the students themselves. Attendees witnessed firsthand how learners are actively putting artificial intelligence into practice across various academic curricula. Students showcased their innovative projects directly from the main stage, while additional student-led initiatives were exhibited throughout the venue. This interactive showcase allowed conference attendees to explore, engage, and connect directly with the practical applications of AI developed by the next generation of scholars and professionals.
The event also featured special partner and sponsor remarks delivered by UC Merced Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Engagement Tonantzin Oseguera. Oseguera spoke on behalf of a prominent collective of institutions, representing the University of California campuses at Merced, Davis, Santa Cruz, San Diego, and Riverside. Their participation underscored the collaborative commitment of major public research universities toward addressing the evolving technological landscape within higher education.
This specialized town hall session formed an integral part of the broader programming for HACU’s 40th Annual Conference. Held under the banner "40 Years of Championing Higher Education Success: One Graduate at a Time," the milestone conference took place from November 1 through November 3, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado. The overarching event brought together educators, administrators, policymakers, and corporate partners from across the nation to reflect on four decades of advocacy and progress while looking forward to the future challenges and opportunities facing Hispanic-Serving Institutions and the students they serve.
