CSM AI Task Force Presents ‘AI Roadmap’ at National Conference

Leaders of the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) AI Task Force presented the college’s approach to integrating artificial intelligence at the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Annual Conference.

The presentation was led by AI Task Force co-chairs Valarie Burks, vice president of information management and technology, and Dr. Stephanie McCaslin, dean of learning resources. They guided community college leaders from across the country through CSM’s model of adopting AI uses, outlining strategic priorities and practical steps for implementation.

According to EDUCAUSE, a national nonprofit working to advance higher education through technology, the number of AI use policies adopted by colleges and universities doubled from 2024 to 2025. The task force emphasized why this rapid growth makes it critical to be proactive in implementing college-wide AI planning.

“CSM is stepping up as a leader in sharing how we can stay ahead of the curve to ensure AI can be used thoughtfully and ethically,” Burks said. “Strategic implementation is bigger than one policy, or a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires campus-wide collaboration so that all students, faculty, and staff can benefit from this powerful tool.” 

The presentation, titled ‘Shaping AI Integration in Community Colleges: The CSM Roadmap to the Future’, outlined national trends of AI adoption, and highlighted the task force focus areas, including ethics and responsible use, data privacy considerations, student engagement, and ongoing evaluation.

CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson said the college is setting an example for embracing AI use with purpose, focusing on safe, ethical integration, and is proud to have the task force recognized for their work.

“The CSM AI Task Force is setting the pace for intentionally integrating this emerging technology,” Dr. Wilson said. “We are deliberately shaping how these tools can be woven into our college culture in order to remain committed to strengthening student success and meeting workforce needs.”

The task force shared how CSM has led workshops, panel discussions, and listening sessions to bring student voices alongside faculty and staff to focus on challenges, concerns, and techniques for utilizing AI. The college also launched a survey to assess the college community’s understanding and current uses of AI, as well as any challenges and support needs they may have. Professional development and training opportunities will continue as implementation moves forward.

“We are committed to building up an AI culture at CSM, focused on building trust and engagement across divisions and across the student body,” McCaslin said. “This technology does not replace the human experience, but when used strategically, elevates our potential to reach new goals.”

The presentation concluded with guidance for other institutions to shape their own practices, emphasizing the importance of developing a clear purpose, dedicated time and resources, and continued focus on student success.