Women in Higher Education Leadership

Diversity as Strength in Times of AI

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the higher education landscape has caused upset to many long-held practices in the sector as educators question the future. The male-dominated leadership landscape in AI reflects broader gender disparities prevalent in STEM fields. This position paper investigates the challenges women face in academic leadership within the context of AI and proposes strategies to address these disparities. By examining reflective narratives from three women leaders in higher education, we identify themes of visibility, recognition, and inclusive leadership. Our findings highlight the importance of mentoring programs and collaborative leadership models to support women in AI leadership roles. We argue that diverse leadership not only fosters innovative solutions and equitable access but is also crucial for ethical AI development. Promoting diverse voices in AI leadership can drive meaningful change, ensuring AI technologies benefit a broader demographic and align with ethical standards. Future research should focus on strategies to enhance visibility and support for women leaders in AI, addressing both gender and cultural dynamics.