2025 Top Issues in Student Affairs: Technology & Digital Innovation Follow-up Brief

Technology continues to reshape the landscape of higher education and the work of student affairs professionals. In 2025, the rise of generative AI, evolving cybersecurity threats, and the expanding role of digital tools in student support surfaced as some of the most urgent and complex challenges facing vice presidents for student affairs (VPSAs). While IT departments often lead on infrastructure and security, student affairs professionals are uniquely positioned to integrate technology policy, training, and ethical guidance into the student experience.

This follow-up brief builds on the Technology & Digital Innovation section of the 2025 Top Issues in Student Affairs report, providing a closer look at how student affairs leaders are navigating this space. It includes insights from VPSAs across institution types, spotlight examples from the field, and actionable strategies to advance institutional goals around digital fluency, student data protection, AI integration, and cross-campus collaboration.