The Cost of Transformation: What Higher Ed Leaders Are Prioritizing for the Digital Campus Future
Rethinking the Workplace for Law Firms in the Era of Digital Transformation
Higher education institutions are under growing pressure to modernize faster, support rising student expectations, and manage increasing technology complexity—all while navigating financial constraints, staffing challenges, and rapid AI adoption.
Watch this survey webcast from Inside Higher Ed, supported in part by Modo.
Explore the latest findings from Inside Higher Ed and Hanover Research’s 2026 Survey of Campus Chief Technology/Information Officers. See what higher ed technology leaders are prioritizing now, where they’re investing next, and what the future of the digital campus experience looks like.
Discover what today’s higher ed technology leaders are saying about:
- The rising cost of digital transformation: Explore how institutions are balancing modernization efforts with growing budget pressures, limited staffing, and increasing operational complexity.
- AI’s role in the future campus experience: Learn where institutions are seeing the most immediate value from AI—from student support and operational efficiency to personalized engagement and campus-wide digital services.
- The shift toward unified digital experiences: See why more campuses are moving away from fragmented systems and disconnected tools in favor of integrated, student-centered digital ecosystems.
- Student expectations for personalization and flexibility: Understand how institutions are responding to growing demand for mobile-first, personalized, and seamless digital interactions across the student journey.
- The future of engagement, retention, and student success: Hear how technology leaders are using data, communications, and connected experiences to reduce friction and improve persistence.
- Technology leadership in an era of constant change: Explore how institutions are adapting governance, staffing, and collaboration models to support innovation while maintaining institutional stability.
About Your Hosts
Phil Kirschner
Future of Work Expert, PK Consulting
Phil is a global thought leader with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of employee experience, corporate real estate, and technology strategy. He leverages data-driven insights to help organizations enhance productivity, talent retention, and engagement. Passionate about the future of work, Phil advocates for dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive workplaces that uplift human potential.
Adam Stoltz
Cofounder, Former AmLaw Workplace Experience Operations
Adam Stoltz is a corporate real estate and workplace experience leader with over 15 years of experience in strategy, operations, and employee services. He specializes in managing global portfolios, workplace strategy, and employee experiences, with expertise in occupancy management, vendor relations, wellness programs, and design and construction. Adam is passionate about creating efficient, engaging work environments that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.
Marc Grainger
Chief People Officer, Debevoise & Plimpton
Marc Grainger is an experienced HR leader with over 15 years in talent development, leadership, and diversity. As Chief People Officer at Debevoise & Plimpton, he leads strategic initiatives to drive culture, performance, and employee engagement. Previously, Marc spent over a decade at Credit Suisse, where he held global leadership roles in People Development and Diversity & Inclusion. He is an expert in shaping high-performing, inclusive workplaces.
Laurie Rothenberg
Global Real Estate & Workplace Strategy Lead Counsel, Pfizer
Laurie Rothenberg is a leader in Global Workplace and Corporate Real Estate Strategy with 17 years at Pfizer, specializing in shaping resilient, employee-centric workplaces. She has a proven track record in optimizing portfolio strategies, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and integrating ESG principles into real estate decisions. Laurie is passionate about creating inspiring workplaces that enhance employee engagement, operational efficiency, and organizational success.
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