Throughout the year, the Board of Trustees of the Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey (ICUNJ) meets to address shared challenges facing independent higher education. The board, composed of the presidents of ICUNJ’s 13 member institutions and four business leaders from the Board of Advisors, governs the organization’s activities and strategic direction. Together, these institutions serve more than 63,000 students pursuing college degrees, offering a wide range of academic programs, campus environments, community engagement opportunities, and social experiences. Their diverse and distinctive offerings help ensure that every student can find the right fit for their educational journey. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, the board engages in discussions on emerging issues ranging from state funding and student mental health to this year’s featured topic: artificial intelligence (AI). The Retreat and Reception were held in the Princeton University Art Museum on June 10, 2026.
Before the AI discussion began, guests heard remarks from New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dale G. Caldwell. Drawing on his experience as President of Centenary University, Dr. Caldwell reaffirmed his commitment to higher education and demonstrated a keen understanding of the challenges facing the independent college sector. His comments highlighted the ways in which the current administration is reviewing opportunities and exploring options to better serve New Jersey students while recognizing the unique value of an education earned at a small, independent institution.
The retreat focused on the application of artificial intelligence as both an administrative resource and an educational tool increasingly sought by employers when recruiting recent graduates. Through two panel presentations and engaging discussions, participants examined the opportunities and challenges AI presents for higher education.
Geoffrey Corb of Huron Consulting and Robert Clougherty of Edge shared similar perspectives on how AI is reshaping nearly every aspect of higher education—from institutional operations to teaching and learning. They emphasized that a lack of technical knowledge will no longer be an acceptable excuse in an AI-driven environment. The impact of AI extends beyond technical expertise; individuals will need to understand AI-related vocabulary, develop trust in AI-enabled systems, and make informed decisions based on AI-generated information.
Both speakers stressed that realizing the benefits of AI begins with asking the right questions. Institutions were challenged to identify the questions that will lead to meaningful problem-solving, increased efficiencies, and genuine modernization. AI, they noted, is not a quick fix but rather a long-term strategic investment that requires thoughtful planning and implementation if institutions hope to remain competitive and become institutions of choice.
The second panel encouraged dialogue between academia and business leaders. Through a series of questions, the panelists explored the role of AI in the classroom and the workplace, concerns about ethics and academic integrity in an AI-enhanced world, and employer expectations for AI readiness as students transition from college to careers. The discussion underscored a shared commitment to keeping student learning at the center of higher education. Students will need to demonstrate a proficiency in applying AI to workplace tasks and real world problems.
Kareena Ramsaran, student and Chair of the Stevens Honor System at Stevens Institute of Technology, provided the student perspective on how AI is creating challenges in the classroom and affecting student learning outcomes. She noted that the ethical dilemmas arising from the widespread availability of AI including its potential to disrupt the learning process and replacing it with ready answers. This concern was echoed by fellow panelists representing both higher education and the business community.
ICUNJ extends its sincere thanks to all the panelists for their thoughtful and engaging discussion: Dr. Even Riskin, Stevens Institute of Technology; Dr. Anthony Scardino, Felician University; Sara Africk, Goldman Sachs; Tanya Alcorn, Pfizer Inc.; and Tara Fosbre, Commvault.
Business leaders emphasized their reliance on colleges and universities to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful career launches. These skills include demonstrated proficiency in using AI to improve efficiency, support decision-making, and create opportunities for innovation and discovery. More than ever, academic programs must incorporate emerging technologies into the learning process, allowing students to explore and utilize tools that have become essential across industries.
At the same time, panelists emphasized that distinctly human capabilities remain critically important. Emotional intelligence, empathy, ethical judgment, accountability, complex problem-solving, creativity, imagination, leadership, and vision must continue to be cultivated alongside the development of academic knowledge and practical skills.
Following the day’s in-depth discussions, retreat participants walked through the art-filled corridors of the Princeton University Art Museum to join reception guests in the Grand Hall. Guests were welcomed to Princeton University by Hilary Parker, Vice President and Secretary of Princeton University. Following her remarks, Stephen Kim, Senior Associate Director of Communications and Information for the Princeton University Art Museum, offered a glimpse into the museum’s exceptional exhibitions and encouraged guests to return and explore its galleries more fully.
The annual reception traditionally serves as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of retiring college presidents. This year, Steve Reynolds, President of ICUNJ, who will retire at the end of the month, reflected on the accomplishments achieved during his tenure and the challenges that remain for independent higher education in New Jersey.
Among those accomplishments was the development of a Mental Health Summit that provides resources and support to higher education institutions across the state. ICUNJ also played a key role in advancing Summer Tuition Aid Grants (TAG), which help students continue their educational journeys year-round. These grants have enabled countless students to maintain academic momentum, fulfill degree requirements, and ease the financial burden of earning a college degree.
The Undergraduate Research Symposium experienced record participation, providing more students with opportunities to engage in meaningful research experiences. Additionally, the Talent Pipeline Committee was established to strengthen connections among students, academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and employer workforce needs.
These achievements, along with many others, were made possible through the dedication of ICUNJ’s staff and leadership despite limited resources. Board Chairs Tom Spellman and Patrick Leahy expressed their appreciation for Steve’s leadership, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to higher education. They also extended their gratitude to the Reynolds family for their support throughout his tenure and for sharing in his commitment to ensuring that every student who chooses an independent college in New Jersey has the opportunity to succeed.
The Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey extends its sincere gratitude to the donors, supporters, and sponsors who have been part of its more than 70-year journey of empowering students to achieve their goal of earning a college degree.
Your support has helped create pathways for innovation and change, enabling students and institutions to address complex challenges facing our communities and the world. Through your investment in higher education, countless students have gained opportunities for personal growth, career success, and economic mobility.
The impact of your generosity extends far beyond individual students. It strengthens our economy, enriches the arts, advances research and discovery, and contributes to a more vibrant and prosperous society for all.
Thank you for your partnership, your commitment, and your belief in the transformative power of higher education.
