About the Episode
About The Episode:
In this episode of AI for U, recorded live at the Engage Summit 2025, host Brian chats with Michele Ehrhart, Chief Communications Officer at the University of Memphis. The conversation dives deep into the real-world uses of AI in higher ed communications, with a spotlight on AI’s role in crisis management and strategic messaging. Michele shares her candid views on AI adoption, leadership influence, and how Gen X communicators like herself are navigating the AI revolution. If you’re wondering how to ethically and effectively use AI in higher education communications, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways
- AI in higher education is already embedded in tools like chatbots, analytics platforms, and ad tech—often without institutions fully realizing it.
- Leadership buy-in is crucial for successful AI adoption in universities.
- AI can be a powerful asset in crisis communications, helping teams test tone, predict sentiment, and speed up content development.
- The ethical use of AI requires a human filter—garbage in, garbage out still applies.
- AI offers higher ed the opportunity to enhance student experience through more integrated, personalized service tools.
- Continuous peer-to-peer learning is driving AI innovation across institutions.
- Embracing AI now is essential—those who delay risk being left behind.
How is AI Already Being Used in Higher Ed?
Michele Ehrhart points out that universities have been using AI all along—in advertising platforms, dynamic content delivery, and chatbots—even if it wasn’t labeled as such. By shining a light on existing use cases, Michele helps her peers reframe AI as less intimidating and more of an evolution than a disruption. Her approach encourages teams to embrace AI as a set of tools that can amplify existing strategies rather than overhaul them.She highlights how resistance often stems from fear or misunderstanding, but when institutions start with education—especially at the leadership level—they can foster a culture of openness and experimentation. Ehrhart credits the University of Memphis’s forward-thinking president for setting the tone with his background in AI research, proving that top-down support is vital.
What Role Should AI Play in Crisis Communications?
As a veteran communicator and crisis comms specialist, Michele sees enormous potential for AI to support—not replace—human decision-making. She explains how AI tools can be used to test messaging sentiment before it goes public, identify potential landmines in language, and even suggest adjustments in real-time. For her, AI is less about outsourcing thinking and more about accelerating the editing and refining process in high-stress situations.She also emphasizes that no AI-generated content should go out the door without human review. In crisis communication, where context and empathy are everything, the “human filter” ensures responsible, accurate messaging. Michele’s rule of thumb? Let AI do the legwork, but never let it do the talking alone.
How Will AI Shape the Future of Higher Education?
Looking forward, Michele believes that we’re only scratching the surface. While no one can predict exactly where AI will take us, she insists the trajectory is clear: it’s not going away. From connecting the dots across disparate campus systems to delivering seamless student support experiences, AI promises to unify fragmented communications and improve responsiveness.
She draws comparisons to customer service evolution—remember when you'd call a hotline and get frustrated repeating yourself? AI’s role now is to prevent that kind of breakdown by providing contextual awareness across student touchpoints. Michele was especially intrigued by tools like Element451’s Bolt, which aim to integrate these systems into a continuous, intelligent engagement loop.
What Are the Most Practical AI Tools for Communication Teams?
When it comes to her team’s daily work, Michele names the usual suspects—ChatGPT, Copilot—but also points out the less obvious AI lurking in platforms like Meltwater and Brandwatch. These tools may not wear the “AI” badge proudly, but their algorithmic power shapes decision-making every day, from social listening to brand monitoring.She stresses that even communicators who think they’re not using AI likely are—and that awareness is key. Being an early adopter isn’t about being trendy; it’s about staying relevant in a fast-changing environment. Her advice to communicators? Learn the tools, test them, and know enough to decide whether they’re a fit—or a risk.
Connect With Our Host:
Brian Piper
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianwpiper/
About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
AI for U is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Mastering the Next.
Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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