ISU’s AI Playbook: Personalization, Integration, and Next-Level Student Engagement
Rethinking the Workplace for Law Firms in the Era of Digital Transformation
Students don’t think in systems anymore. They think in questions, outcomes, and instant answers.
Join Todd Smoak, Executive Director of Technology Solutions at Illinois State University, for a live webinar exploring how ISU transformed its unified campus app into an AI-powered student experience platform through Ask Reggie and Modo My Agent. Todd will showcase how ISU built the digital foundation, governance model, and integration strategy needed to move from fragmented systems and navigation-heavy experiences to conversational, AI-driven student support.
Rather than treating AI as a standalone chatbot, ISU focused on embedding AI directly into the student experience and connected systems like PeopleSoft and Canvas into one personalized, action-oriented interface that helps students get answers, understand context, and take the next step.
Discover how ISU is approaching higher education AI with a practical, phased strategy:
- Build a Strong Digital Foundation: Learn why ISU prioritized deep integrations, personalization, and unified mobile + portal experiences before introducing AI.
- Move Beyond Navigation: See how students can ask natural-language questions like “Am I ready to register?” or “What assignments are due?” without navigating multiple systems.
- Create AI That’s Grounded in Real Campus Systems: Explore how Ask Reggie connects to PeopleSoft, Canvas, institutional content, and campus services to provide personalized, context-aware responses.
- Implement AI Responsibly: Hear how ISU approached governance, permissions, privacy, and phased rollout strategies to build institutional trust and reduce risk.
- Design Around Student Workflows: Learn why ISU focused on real student journeys and outcome-driven interactions instead of isolated chatbot Q&A.
The session will also explore:
- Lessons learned from ISU’s implementation journey
- Early student feedback and engagement trends
- The roadmap for expanding into more advanced, agentic workflows
- Recommendations for institutions beginning their own AI journey
Join us to see how Illinois State University is redefining the campus experience through AI-powered personalization, seamless integrations, and workflow-driven student engagement.
Your Panelists
Todd Smoak
Executive Director of Technology Solutions
Illinois State University
Todd Smoak is the Executive Director of Tech Solutions at Illinois State University, where he oversees core academic and administrative systems supporting learning, registration, finance, human resources, and campus integrations. With more than 18 years of IT leadership experience and nearly 12 years at Illinois State, Todd specializes in enterprise technology strategy, systems integration, and digital transformation in higher education.
Matt Willmore
Senior Director of Product
Modo Labs
Matt has been with Modo since 2017, where he currently leads its higher ed and platform product strategies. Prior to Modo, he led the mobileND Program at the University of Notre Dame, where he shepherded campus-wide mobile initiatives including a Modo-powered campus app, student development opportunities, a first-of-its-kind mobile device lab, and an annual on-campus mobile conference.
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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