2025 Beideman Visiting Scholar Brings the Future of AI in Education to Widener with Keynote Address and Workshops
Widener University welcomed Amanda Bickerstaff, co-founder and CEO of AI for Education, as the 2025 Beideman Visiting Scholar in conjunction with the university’s inaugural AI Day event. Bickerstaff delivered the keynote address in Alumni Auditorium, covering current events and the future of AI in education, AI literacy and ethical usage, and how educators and students can prepare for more AI integration with the classroom of tomorrow.
“We are living through an inflection point that is probably most similar to the Industrial Revolution,” said Bickerstaff. “ChatGPT is the fastest growing consumer technology by a magnitude. This is an opportunity for students, staff, and faculty to talk to each other.”
In addition to delivering the keynote address, Bickerstaff led several hands-on workshops throughout the event sharing her tips and best practices for working with generative AI platforms and encouraging attendees to bring AI into their daily lives.
She discussed the history of artificial intelligence and machine learning and demonstrating a number of generative AI tools to share about effective prompt writing, data privacy, and keeping an open and innovative mindset.
“AI is quickly shaping the way we operate across all sectors, and Widener is pleased to welcome Amanda to campus to share her expertise,” said Paul Beideman ’79 ‘14H, chair of the university Board of Trustees who made the lecture program possible through a generous gift, made with his wife, Caroline Beideman. “Being able to provide professional opportunities like this to our faculty, staff and students reinforces Widener’s commitment to being prepared for the future.”
AI for Education provides AI literacy training to educators. With over 20 years of experience in the education industry, Bickerstaff is committed to helping educators, staff, and students maximize their potential through the ethical and equitable adoption of AI.
The Beideman Visiting Scholar Program brings world-class speakers and scholars to the Widener campus on an annual basis to stimulate discussions on current and pertinent theories and practices related to leadership development and the effective exercise of leadership.