Why, Now and How to Responsibly Use AI in Campus Rec
Matt Schmiedl, CENTERS Enterprise Marketing Manager, CENTERS AI Council Chair, and frequent guest columnist for Campus Rec – This Week shares insights on applying AI responsibly in the workplace.
AI is no longer a far-off technology we can keep putting off until later. It is actively disrupting industries and reshaping how we work, including in higher ed and campus recreation. The conversation is shifting from whether AI should be adopted to how institutions can integrate it thoughtfully and responsibly.
When applied conscientiously, AI in campus rec can be a valuable tool to enhance what we do without losing the authenticity and humanity behind our work.
6 Considerations for Responsible AI Adoption
- AI is a tool, not a substitute for human judgment.
- AI should complement — not replace — human expertise.
- AI is not always accurate. Verify and cross-check information.
- Be mindful of bias and ethical risks.
- Prioritize privacy and data security.
- Transparency and compliance matter.
The AI imperative behooves us to build AI literacy and engage in discussions and action around AI adoption now. AI presents new opportunities for campus rec, but its adoption must be handled responsibly. By proactively engaging with AI and establishing ethical best practices, we can maximize AI’s potential while maintaining trust, integrity, inclusivity, and human authenticity. Together, we can be an AI-forward industry.
About the Author:
Matt Schmiedl has more than 20 years of experience in marketing and graphic design working in a variety of industries and sectors, most notably higher education and publishing. He has been working with CENTERS, LLC for more than a decade at Cleveland State University (CSU), leading marketing and business development on behalf of the University Recreation and Wellbeing department. He has developed and launched a number of initiatives to catalyze business growth and implemented new marketing strategies to build engagement with both the CSU and Cleveland communities. Most recently, Mr. Schmiedl was tapped to lead Enterprise marketing efforts for CENTERS as he brings his marketing expertise to new and existing CENTERS’ clients. Matt is a nine-time NIRSA Creative Excellence Award recipient, the recipient of the CENTERS Quest for X Award in 2017, and the winner of an APEX Award of Excellence and Magnum Opus Honorable Mention Award, both in 2011.