Fisher College Partners with NWN to Drive AI Campus Transformation and Esports Innovation

Fisher College Partners with NWN for AI-Driven Transformation

Fisher College, a prestigious institution located in Boston, has inked a significant multi-million dollar partnership with NWN, a renowned provider of AI-powered technology solutions. This collaboration aims to rejuvenate the college's infrastructure and enhance its acclaimed esports program while developing a cutting-edge AI curriculum designed for the future of work.

A New Era of Digital Education

The partnership is poised to invest over $2.5 million toward modernizing Fisher College's technology infrastructure. Key updates include deploying a robust 10G backbone, replacing outdated network switches, and integrating the EMP Managed Services platform, designed to streamline daily IT operations. This transformative overhaul is designed to create a seamless digital experience for the college's diverse student body of over 1,500, which notably comprises a majority of first-generation college students and a strong representation of historically underserved communities.

President of Fisher College, Steven Rich, emphasized the importance of this advancement: "Our students now experience seamless connectivity and real-time collaboration across campus. This transformation has elevated our academic programs and esports capabilities, giving students the tools they need to succeed in a digital-first world."

Elevating Esports

The upgraded infrastructure has allowed Fisher to significantly extend its esports program. The program now boasts over 80 state-of-the-art gaming stations, a fully equipped broadcast studio, and hands-on training that includes production techniques, team management, and digital storytelling. This immersive approach to learning positions Fisher as a national leader in esports education, providing students with real-world experience in a rapidly expanding industry.

Bryan Hummel, the Director of Esports at Fisher College, remarked, "This partnership with NWN is a game-changer, merging academics with esports to propel our students, who naturally gravitate toward AI and STEM careers, into tech innovation. Upgrading our campus's connectivity enhances our infrastructure, teaching, and learning capabilities. Our athletes collaborate on experiential learning with faculty, pioneering immersive gaming, virtual reality broadcasts, and high-fidelity production that equips them to lead in esports management and AI-enhanced game design."

A Vision for AI Education

In addition to revamping the campus infrastructure, NWN and Fisher College are set to launch a novel AI curriculum. This curriculum will introduce students and faculty to fundamental concepts in artificial intelligence. Topics will include generative AI, prompt engineering, and the ethical use of AI, and it aims to foster both understanding and critical assessment of this rapidly developing technology.

To celebrate the launch of this initiative, Fisher College will host an AI Learning Summit in Winter 2026, gathering students, faculty, and industry leaders to discuss the evolving role of AI in education and the workforce.

Janet Kuser, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Fisher College, explained the significance of preparing their graduates for a world increasingly influenced by AI: "AI is making an impact in all facets of life, business, education, and entertainment. Graduates must be prepared to recognize and use AI appropriately, understanding how to critically assess and evaluate its applications. Our partnership with NWN will ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date, accurate, and actionable."

Andrew Gilman, CMO of NWN, encapsulated the vision of this collaboration by stating, "With Fisher College, we're creating a modern environment where students can learn, build, and imagine the future. This partnership highlights how modern infrastructure and AI-powered services can unlock transformative outcomes for higher education."

About the Organizations

NWN specializes in AI-driven solutions for innovative organizations across North America. With over three decades of experience, they have successfully aided thousands of CIOs in tech modernization, ensuring a high standard of service and efficiency.
Fisher College, founded in 1903, is dedicated to providing practical and liberal arts education and has adapted to meet the needs of its diverse student population through innovative programs, including an emerging esports industry program. For more details, visit NWN and Fisher College.