Discover 5 AI-driven innovations enhancing campus operations and community engagement

Marshall University: A Leader in AI-Powered Campus Recreation 

Sunlight streams through window on Marshall Rec floorMarshall University has long been recognized for its innovative spirit, driven by initiatives like Intuit’s Design for Delight (D4D) framework, introduced by President Brad D. Smith. Focused on fostering creativity, customer empathy, and rapid experimentation, D4D prepares students for the future workforce while inspiring operational excellence across campus. 

CENTERS @ Marshall Campus Recreation has embraced this philosophy, using D4D principles to enhance the student experience. By integrating human-centered innovation into their operations, the team has not only streamlined workflows but also developed creative solutions to better serve students and the broader campus community. 

Building on this culture of innovation, CENTERS @ Marshall is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize campus recreation operations and elevate the out-of-classroom experience. Here are five groundbreaking ways they’re using AI to transform services and create meaningful impact.

1) Transforming Onboarding with an AI-Powered Podcast

Student stands up in front of training class in front of a screenOne standout example of CENTERS’ innovative approach is their transformation of the student employee handbook into a podcast, inspired by D4D principles of empathy and creativity. Traditionally, new hires were required to read through a lengthy playbook—a daunting task for busy students balancing academic and personal commitments. 

Using Notebook LM, an AI-powered tool, the CENTERS team at Marshall created a concise, nine-minute podcast summarizing the handbook’s key points. This engaging audio format allows students to listen on the go—whether commuting, exercising, or relaxing—enhancing accessibility and retention. 

This innovation not only improved onboarding outcomes but also demonstrated CENTERS’ commitment to meeting students where they are. By combining AI with a human-centered approach, the team delivered a more effective and inclusive solution that aligns with Marshall’s D4D-inspired culture of creativity and problem-solving. 

2) Enhancing Written Communication with AI Tools

Effective communication is critical for operations, and CENTERS leverages tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and CoPilot to streamline business writing. ChatGPT assists in generating ideas and drafting content, while Grammarly ensures polished, professional communication. CoPilot integrates directly into Microsoft Word to provide structural suggestions. These tools enable staff to focus on impactful messaging for reports, social media, and internal communications.

3) Streamlining Patron Communication with Magical

CENTERS uses the Google Chrome extension Magical to handle repetitive patron inquiries efficiently. With reusable text templates for common questions, staff provide quick and consistent responses about program details and registrations. This approach enhances the patron experience while freeing staff to focus on higher-level tasks, like program planning and engagement. 

4) Documenting SOPs with Scribe

To ensure seamless operations, CENTERS utilizes Scribe, an AI tool that creates detailed, step-by-step guides for Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Scribe captures every action, complete with screenshots, making it easy to document processes for tasks like filling in during absences. This approach improves consistency, minimizes knowledge gaps, and empowers staff adaptability.

5) Engaging Staff Training with Quizizz

Quizizz revolutionizes training for part-time staff at CENTERS @ Marshall by transforming information into interactive quizzes. Supervisors upload key content, and Quizizz generates quizzes to reinforce knowledge on protocols, equipment maintenance, and more. Its gamified approach keeps staff engaged, while performance reports help identify and address knowledge gaps efficiently. 

Marshall’s Role in the CENTERS AI Council 

Marshall Campus Rec’s innovative approach extends beyond its campus through participation in the CENTERS AI Council. This collaborative effort shares advancements, like AI-driven training tools and workflow optimizations, across CENTERS-managed sites. 

Leading the Future of Campus Recreation 

By embracing AI’s transformative potential and integrating D4D-inspired principles, CENTERS @ Marshall University positions itself as a leader in modern campus recreation. Through a culture of creativity, collaboration, and innovation, the department enhances operations, improves community engagement, and serves as a model for institutions exploring AI’s possibilities. 

About the Author 
Michelle Muth serves as the Director of Campus Recreation at Marshall University, overseeing programs, operations, and facilities, including the Recreation Center and Fitch Natatorium. A two-time graduate of Marshall University, she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Economics and an Executive MBA. Michelle has held multiple leadership roles at Marshall and assists CENTERS with management advisory services. She holds certifications from the NIRSA School of Recreational Sports Management and as a TRX and Cycle Fusion instructor.