Brandeis Online
Q&A: Chair of AI-Driven Leadership
August 12, 2025
Brandeis Online's new master's certificate in AI-Driven Leadership launches this fall. We sat down with program chair Scott Stanley, EdD, to learn how the certificate is preparing students to thrive in today's ever-changing job market.
What is your role in the AI-Driven Leadership certificate program?
I’m the Assistant Dean of Education and Learning Innovation at Brandeis Online. I also serve as the academic lead for the AI-Driven Leadership Master's Certificate. My role involves curriculum design, faculty support and ensuring we’re delivering forward-thinking, practical learning.
Why did you choose to help lead this program?
AI is redefining leadership. I wanted to empower professionals not just to understand AI, but to *lead with it* — ethically and effectively.
How is this certificate program different from others in the AI space?
It’s made for leaders, not coders. You don’t need a tech background to thrive here. We focus on strategic applications of AI in leadership settings — how to implement it, evaluate its risks, and inspire innovation.“I wanted to empower professionals not just to understand AI, but to *lead with it* — ethically and effectively.”
Which course should we spotlight and why?
Ethical AI and Governance is crucial. It helps learners think through difficult questions about transparency, bias, and accountability — issues that are front and center in today’s AI landscape.
What’s your favorite part of this program?
Watching the lightbulb moments. Students often enter unsure about AI and leave as confident change agents who can translate emerging technology into strategic advantage.
Why is this program particularly important right now?
AI is no longer a “nice-to-know.” It’s a core leadership skill. Leaders who understand AI’s capabilities — and limits — will shape how organizations evolve.“AI is no longer a “nice-to-know.” It’s a core leadership skill. Leaders who understand AI’s capabilities — and limits — will shape how organizations evolve.”
What kinds of students excel in this program?
Leaders and aspiring leaders with curiosity and a passion for innovation. Many are exploring how AI will reshape their industries and want to stay ahead of the curve.
Can you share a student success story?
While this program is new, early graduates have stepped into new roles leading AI strategy or digital transformation. Some even created positions for themselves by bridging the tech-business divide.
What career outcomes can students expect?
Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as innovation lead, transformation manager, or strategic operations leader — especially in organizations leaning into AI.“Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as innovation lead, transformation manager, or strategic operations leader — especially in organizations leaning into AI.”
What’s it like teaching and mentoring students online in this program?
Energizing. The discussions are rich with real-world applications. The asynchronous model gives students time to reflect and contribute with depth.
What skills will students walk away with?
AI literacy, innovation leadership, strategic implementation, and ethical governance. They’ll leave empowered to lead the future — not just adapt to it.
Learn more about the master's certificate in AI-Driven Leadership.
More Stories
July 14, 2025
Online admissions committees have only your paperwork to evaluate whether you're ready for the challenge ahead. So, your letter of recommendation can make a big difference in your application.