IWU POWERS FORWARD WITH ACADEMIC INNOVATION THAT MATTERS
Technology continues to redefine how people live, learn, and work. Along with new opportunities come challenges such as affordability, time, and the need to remain career-ready in a rapidly changing world.
While many universities race to adapt, IWU is leading with vision, creating pathways that prepare students for life and career through faith, purpose, and practical learning. From artificial intelligence to healthcare and business, IWU is advancing innovation that strengthens communities and expands access to transformational education.
Faith-Guided Innovation
A major focus at IWU is helping students and professionals understand that artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance, not replace, learning and creativity. IWU is embedding AI literacy across its curriculum while encouraging ethical use grounded in Christian values.
“We want people to learn how to use AI with wisdom in their lives, their work, and their leadership,” said Tiffany Snyder, Ph.D., faculty engagement director and advocate for AI literacy. “AI is a tool for brainstorming, organizing research, or refining drafts, not a substitute for a student’s scholarly voice.”
“TECHNOLOGY AND CHANGE CAN CAUSE FEAR, BUT IWU’S RESPONSE IS TO MOVE FORWARD PRAYERFULLY AND WITH CONFIDENCE, KNOWING THAT INNOVATION GROUNDED IN FAITH TRANSFORMS LIVES.” -
TIFFANY SNYDER, PH.D.
Faculty Engagement Director
Snyder launched IWU’s AI professional learning community in 2023 and has trained more than 600 full- and part-time faculty members. Through the AI-Enhanced Course Refresh Institute, faculty redesign courses to include AI literacy and practical application. “IWU approaches AI with prayer, discernment, and humility,” she said. “We want faculty and students to use technology through the lens of faith.”
Building on this spirit of innovation, IWU is launching a new business incubator and collaborative learning initiative at its Indy North location in the Keystone corridor of Indianapolis. The 55,000-square-foot facility will bring students together with entrepreneurs and innovators through the DeVoe School of Business, Technology, and Leadership.
“Indy North will equip students to create with excellence and serve with purpose,” said Eileen Hulme, Ph.D., chancellor of IWU National and Global. “It’s where faith meets innovation and business becomes a way to transform lives.”
Integrating Faith and Service
The Center for Faith and Learning helps faculty integrate faith into teaching, service, and research. “Faith and learning are inseparable,” said David Davies, Ph.D., vice president of academic affairs. “It’s like pouring cream into coffee; it changes everything.”
Innovation Meets Compassionate Care That same integration of faith and practice extends beyond the classroom. IWU’s partnership with Marion Health strengthens the region’s healthcare workforce while providing hands-on learning for nursing students. “IWU students understand accountability and integrity,” said Jenae Mitchell, clinical recruiter for Marion Health. “Their Christ-centered education gives them both skill and compassion.”
From AI to healthcare and business innovation, IWU models what progress looks like when guided by faith and a commitment to serve others.
BUILDING AI FLUENCY ACROSS N&G
Full- and Part-Time Faculty Trained in AI Literacy
In-Person Trainings and Dozens of Webinars Hosted
Faculty (in 2 cohorts) Completed IWU’s AI-Enhanced Course Refresh Institute
NURSING THAT SERVES: IWU + MARION HEALTH
Nearly
IWU Nursing Students Placed at Marion Health
Over
Clinical hours at Marion Health
Students learned in specialty units and clinics such as: OR, MedExpress, CHF clinic, Hematology & Oncology, Wound Center