In late summer 2025, Cedarville became the first evangelical Christian university to adopt ChatGPT Edu campuswide. I have never been so convinced about a decision that received such a mixed reaction. I quickly learned that AI generates more than data — it generates strong emotions, both positive and negative. I get it. Some people fear change. Others worry about ethical dangers, environmental costs, the threat to human dignity, job loss, or the unknown. Among Christians, AI rightly raises profound questions about what it means to be human. At Cedarville, our response is neither fear nor uncritical embrace but humility seeking discernment rooted in a biblical worldview. WHY WE ACTED By adopting a campuswide solution, we chose engagement over avoidance. Our closed-network environment within ChatGPT gives us greater control over our data, protects our intellectual property, and allows monitoring to encourage academic integrity. Certain image generation features that would not honor the Lord have been disabled. Our focus from day one has been simple: access, training, and humility. During my own deep dive into AI, two things became undeniable: AI is not going away, and employers are already demanding AI competency. The voices from the marketplace are unambiguous. Consider the words of Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart: “AI is going to change literally every job.” Stephen Squeri, CEO of American Express, warns of “the growing disconnect between the skills that CEOs are prioritizing … and how colleges and universities are preparing their students.” A recent employer survey found that 77% expect new hires to have AI experience, yet 58% believe universities are not doing enough. Direct conversations with leaders at JPMorgan Chase were equally clear: § “We expect everyone to have some level of competency for AI.” § “Higher ed does not move at the speed of business.” § “Faculty and staff are eliminating jobs for their students if they do not teach their students how to use it.” If we reject AI, we fail our students. AI literacy paired with integrity, critical thinking, and people skills will distinguish Cedarville graduates in a competitive marketplace. We know many résumés will be reviewed by AI before reaching human eyes. We must equip our students accordingly. Yet higher education is more than workforce preparation. We are forming students for lifelong faithfulness, wisdom, and service. Information is not formation. Critical thinking, creativity, moral courage, and spiritual maturity remain central to our mission. 4
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