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In this episode of In The Margins, we sit down with Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), to explore how leadership, innovation, and purpose-driven strategy can transform not just an institution, but an entire region.
Drawing from his foundation as a classroom teacher, Graham shares how his leadership is rooted in relationships, data-informed decision-making, and a commitment to developing the whole student. He unpacks UAPB’s bold vision to become a nationally recognized, preeminent land-grant institution, serving as a catalyst for talent development, innovation, and economic renewal across the Arkansas Delta.
The conversation, with The EDU Ledger host Ralph Newell, dives into the university’s approach to artificial intelligence, workforce readiness, and research, highlighting initiatives like the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (CAIDA) and groundbreaking work in aquaculture and agriculture. Graham also outlines what it takes to achieve Carnegie R2 designation, including difficult institutional decisions, program alignment, and a shift toward transdisciplinary, problem-focused research.
At its core, this episode is about redefining student success, embracing change in higher education, and building systems that prepare students to lead, solve problems, and drive economic impact.
KEY POINTS:
● Graham’s leadership philosophy rooted in teaching, relationships, and data
● Why leaders must enter institutions as learners, not with preconceived models
● AI as a tool, and why problem literacy matters more than technical skills
● The push to demystify AI and build data-informed cultures through CAIDA
● What it takes to reach Carnegie R2: research investment, doctoral output, and alignment
● Why institutions must make hard decisions about outdated academic programs
● The shift toward “braided funding” and less reliance on federal dollars
● Redefining student success as holistic development beyond graduation metrics
● UAPB’s vision to drive talent, innovation, and economic renewal across the Arkansas Delta
QUOTABLES:
“The most important skill that there is, is relationship building.” – Dr. Anthony Graham
“AI may not take your job, but someone who knows how to use AI may take your job.” – Dr. Anthony Graham
“It really is about lifting all people so that the region thrives.” – Dr. Anthony Graham
GUEST RESOURCES:
Our Chancellor - University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
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Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.
In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).
