Monday, Mount Zion Illinois CEO joined Central Illinois CEO and Sangamon Valley CEO at Millikin to hear from Julienne Shields, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and a serial entrepreneur.
Julienne shared four different capacities of AI and challenged students to think carefully about how they use this powerful tool. She explained that if we want AI to be used for good, we need to understand it and use it responsibly. Otherwise, people with bad intentions may use it to create products and solutions without us.
One of her most important reminders was that AI does not replace human interaction, creativity, or effort. Students should not cheat themselves by relying on AI for everything, especially as they begin their careers. They still need to do the “muscular work” of learning, thinking, communicating, and solving problems. At the same time, AI can be an incredibly valuable tool when used to help people work more efficiently and effectively.
Julienne divided the students into three groups: marketing and sales, finance and accounting, and operations and execution. She then worked with each group to demonstrate how AI can support their work and help them become more productive.
She also emphasized that AI should work the way people work. Rather than replacing the human experience, AI can help humanize the digital experience when it is used thoughtfully and intentionally.
The timing was perfect as our students are getting ready to begin their class business projects. Julienne’s insights gave them practical ideas to consider as they prepare to apply what they are learning in their own businesses.
Our students enjoyed interacting with students from the other CEO programs, comparing notes, sharing ideas, and learning from one another. These opportunities help students expand their perspectives and continue getting better together.
We loved hearing from Julienne Shields and are grateful for the knowledge, insight, and encouragement she shared with our students. Thank you, Julienne, for supporting the CEO program and helping our students better understand the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI.
Central IL CEO Sangamon Valley CEO Julienne Wheat Shields Millikin University Center for Entrepreneurship Millikin University
