8th Anniversary
STAR Global Futures Forum
At the STAR Global Futures Forum 2026, distinguished presidents, policymakers, foundation leaders, and scholars gathered in Washington, DC to address the defining challenges and opportunities shaping higher education. From restoring public trust and advancing first-generation student success to guiding the ethical integration of artificial intelligence, the Forum featured powerful reflections that underscored higher education’s responsibility to lead with integrity, equity, and purpose. The excerpts below capture the spirit, urgency, and forward-looking vision expressed by our honored dignitaries.
Vice President, Lumina Foundation
Dr. Courtney Brown
“Access is necessary—but it is not sufficient.”
“Belonging is a condition for success.”
Dr. Brown’s remarks grounded the unveiling of the First in the Family book series in both policy and lived experience, reinforcing that first-generation students belong at the center of higher education strategy.
Advisor, STAR Scholars Network
Dr. Mirka koro
“Technology must never outpace our commitment to justice, inclusion, and human dignity.”
“Before we speak about the future, we must acknowledge the land and the communities who have carried its history.”
In opening her remarks with a land acknowledgment, Dr. Koro grounded the conversation in place, history, and accountability. As discussions moved toward artificial intelligence, global partnerships, and institutional strategy, she emphasized that progress must remain rooted in community and ethical responsibility.
Her message was clear: scholarship is not detached from society. It is embedded within it. And as we build AI-driven futures, we must ensure they are equitable, inclusive, and mindful of those most affected.
President, George Mason University
Dr. Gregory Washington
“AI was designed to disrupt; and it is doing so.”
“This is not just a trust crisis. It is a communication crisis.”
President Washington emphasized that universities must better communicate their societal value. He cited research demonstrating that public investment in higher education generates substantial economic and civic returns.
President, American University
Dr. Jonathan Alger
“Higher education serves both a public good and a private benefit.”
“Higher Education Is a Public Good”
President Alger affirmed the civic responsibility of universities and the importance of supporting first-generation students and global partnerships.
Delegate, Maryland General Assembly
Dr. Harry Bhandari
“Knowledge has no borders. Curiosity needs no passport.”
“AI can generate information, but educators generate wisdom.”
Delegate Bhandari underscored the importance of ethics in education and emphasized that AI must complement—not replace—human connection.
ACA for the District of Columbia
Dr. Christopher Rodriguez
“The question is not whether AI will transform society. The question is whether it will reduce inequality or accelerate it.”
“Guidelines are important—but implementation, investment, and accountability matter more.”
Dr. Rodriguez highlighted Washington, DC’s commitment to equitable AI governance, broadband expansion, and human-centered technology that supports teachers and students.
VP, Association of Community College Trustees
Dr. Robin Matross Helms
“AI Literacy Is Workforce Literacy”
“AI literacy is foundational to the future workforce.”
Dr. Helms emphasized governance readiness and trustee responsibility in guiding AI adoption across institutions.
Dean, Utah Valley University
Dr. James Jacob
“AI should be approached as a partnership—guided by principles, not fear.”
“Stewardship, Trust, Accountability, Record”
Dr. Jacob represented the STAR Global AI Taskforce to introduce the STAR AI Framework:
S — Stewardship of the Public Good
T — Trust Through Ethical Practice
A — Accountability to Societal Impact
R — Record of Integrity in Process and Evidence
President, University of San Francisco
Dr. Salvador Aceves
“Education must awaken both the mind and the heart.”
Moral leadership and mission-driven higher education is what we need.
President Aceves connected first-generation success and AI ethics to moral leadership and mission-driven higher education.
President Emeritus, Association of American Community Colleges
Dr. George Boggs
“We must measure outcomes, not just access.”
Data transparency, accountability, and equity for students.
Dr. Boggs emphasized data transparency, accountability, and equity for community college students.
VP, STAR Scholars Network
Dr. Keith Wright
I welcome you to celebrate the 8th anniversary of the STAR Scholars Network!
“Please remember our 10 year Capital Campaign”
Dr. Wright convened the STAR Global Futures Forum as the master of ceremony. He also serves on the STAR Global AI Task Force.
EVP, STAR Scholars Network
Dr. Krishna Bista
First in the Family book series brings global narratives.
We must listen to these stories.
Dr. Krishna Bista highlighted the importance of listening to the narratives of young scholars from around the world navigating higher education as international students. He also serves on the STAR Global AI Task Force.
President, STAR Scholars Network
Dr. Uttam Gaulee
“If AI reflects us, what are we teaching it?”
“Technology must serve humanity, not overshadow it.”
Dr. Gaulee framed the Forum around rebuilding public trust in higher education. His remarks centered on aligning prosperity with peace, innovation with integrity, and technological advancement with moral accountability.