Innovation with Integrity: BHCC’s Convocation Explores AI, Early Intervention and Student Success
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Bunker Hill Community College faculty and staff gathered on September 3 for the College's annual Convocation, themed "Innovation with Integrity: Exploring AI, Early Intervention, and Student Success." The event brought together employees from across the College to reflect on emerging opportunities and challenges in higher education, celebrate new colleagues, and prepare for the academic year ahead. President Pam Eddinger welcomed attendees, followed by remarks from college leadership and the introduction of new faculty, staff, and administrators. The day centered on how BHCC can leverage technology while maintaining its commitment to equitable, student-centered education.
The keynote address, delivered by academic integrity expert Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant, challenged participants to rethink teaching, learning, and assessment in the age of generative AI. Dr. Bertram Gallant emphasized that while AI offers new opportunities, colleges must continue to center humanity, foster durable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and adaptability, and ensure students authentically demonstrate their learning. She encouraged institutions to integrate AI thoughtfully where it enhances learning and efficiency, while preserving the human connections and meaningful educational experiences at the heart of higher education.
A panel discussion highlighting BHCC's Success Signals initiative reinforced the importance of combining technology with personal outreach to support student success. Faculty, advisors, staff, and student leaders shared how the early-alert and recognition system has helped identify students who need support, celebrate achievements, and strengthen connections between students and the College community. Through stories of timely interventions, personalized encouragement, and meaningful advisor engagement, panelists demonstrated that technology is most effective when it helps people connect with one another.
Together, the keynote and panel underscored a common theme: innovation succeeds when it is guided by integrity, compassion, and a commitment to helping every student thrive.