Let’s be honest—most university tech stacks today look more like digital Frankenstein monsters than intentional systems. Piece by piece, stitched together over decades, our CRMs, SISs, LMSs, and countless other platforms barely talk to each other. The result? A clunky, expensive, and often frustrating experience for both students and staff.

But what if we stopped patching the monster and started over with a new blueprint?

In the latest episode of Generation AI, JC Bonilla and I had the chance to sit down with someone who’s doing exactly that—Lev Gonick, Chief Information Officer at Arizona State University. And let me tell you: ASU is not just talking about AI; they’re living it.

From Frankenstein to Framework: Why ASU is Rearchitecting Everything

Lev doesn’t mince words—he describes most campus technology as “Frankenstein systems.” And he’s right. We’ve all been there, patching platforms, duct-taping workflows, and hoping the next integration doesn’t break everything.

At ASU, they’ve chosen a different path: rebuild from the ground up. Not by ripping everything out, but by layering in intelligent agents—AI-powered systems designed to operate autonomously, solve real problems, and, crucially, talk to each other.

Instead of siloed tools, ASU is building an orchestrated network of purpose-built AI agents that span every facet of campus life—from parking to pedagogy, and financial aid to faculty support.

AI Agents Are the New Workforce (Yes, Really)

It’s not just theoretical. Lev shared that ASU has already developed about a dozen AI agents, each with a specific function—from syllabus generation to student skills mapping to career path alignment.

And they’re just getting started.

What’s most exciting is how ASU is now orchestrating these agents—connecting them into a coherent, dynamic digital workforce. Picture agents that specialize in course design, communicating with those that handle financial aid navigation, all managed by a supervisory “Centurion” agent ensuring security, ethics, and efficiency.

It’s not just smarter tech—it’s a smarter way to work.

Beyond Pilots: Why ASU Is Betting Big on Real-World Implementation

There’s no shortage of AI pilot projects across higher ed. But too often, these experiments live in isolated corners of campus, disconnected from real operational workflows.

ASU’s approach is refreshingly different. They’ve already rolled out AI agent pilots in parking services and back-office operations. This fall, they’re moving into the classroom, deploying agents that support a range of instructional models—from Socratic dialogue to project-based learning.

As Lev puts it, “We don’t wait for the perfect solution. We build, test, and iterate in the real world.” That mindset isn’t just bold—it’s necessary.

Digital Transformation Demands Human Transformation, Too

Of course, AI implementation isn’t just a tech problem—it’s a people problem. Lev was candid about the resistance to change that often comes with digital transformation.

That’s why ASU isn’t just building tools—they’re building pathways. Upskilling and reskilling programs help staff adapt to new roles alongside the digital workforce. The goal isn’t a replacement. It’s reimagination..

Building Anti-Fragile Institutions

My favorite takeaway from our conversation? ASU isn’t just trying to weather disruption—they’re trying to thrive in it.

Lev talks about building “anti-fragile” institutions—systems that get stronger under pressure and more innovative under constraints. It’s a powerful concept and one that AI, when implemented thoughtfully, can help bring to life.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t just changing what we do in higher ed—it’s changing how we think. And ASU is providing a playbook for the rest of us.

If your institution is still stitching together tech solutions and hoping for the best, it’s time to rethink your approach. The age of Frankenstein tech is over. The age of coordinated, intelligent systems is here.

Listen to the full conversation today.