#United States #Chicago #Innovation Awards #Eduventures #Encoura

Four Universities Honored with 2025 Innovation Awards

On June 18, 2025, Encoura, a prominent organization in educational technology and research, held its annual Eduventures Summit in Chicago, Illinois, unveiling the winners of the coveted Eduventures Research Innovation Awards. This event highlighted the commitment of universities to drive innovation and improve outcomes in the field of higher education. After reviewing a record number of submissions, Encoura decided to honor four exceptional institutions that exemplified bold initiatives aimed at fostering meaningful change.

Recipients of the Awards

The universities celebrated for their outstanding approaches were:

1. Florida Atlantic University
2. McMurry University
3. Oregon State Ecampus
4. Suffolk University

In addition to the winners, there were also special recognitions given to several institutions for their noteworthy contributions to education. These included:

• - Bowling Green State University
• - Old Dominion University
• - National University of Singapore

Suffolk University’s Groundbreaking Initiative

One of the significant awardees, Suffolk University, received accolades for its innovative approach to integrating artificial intelligence into business education. Jodi Detjen, the Associate Dean of Innovative Education Programs, elaborated on their AI-Human Educational Synergy (AHES) Framework. This initiative aims to equip business students with the necessary skills to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving job market shaped by advancements in AI technology.

Detjen highlighted, “Business schools face the fundamental challenge of preparing students for a professional landscape being transformed by AI. With our framework, students have successfully engaged in critical evaluation of AI-generated outputs, applying ethical considerations to their decision-making process.” Notably, 85% of participants reported a significant boost in confidence when using AI tools.

About the Innovation Awards Program

Now in its ninth year, the Eduventures Innovation Awards Program is dedicated to recognizing institutions that are shaping the future of higher education. Submissions to this competitive program were evaluated across three categories:

• - Enrollment: Strategies for innovative enrollment management in a dynamic environment.
• - Student Experience: Novel approaches to teaching and student support.
• - Outcomes: Initiatives aimed at defining and reporting student success outcomes.

Judges, comprised of a panel of higher education experts, meticulously assessed applications based on their value to the institution, the innovation demonstrated, and their alignment with the institution's mission. Announcements of the winners coincided with the Eduventures Summit, reflecting Encoura's dedication to fostering educational advancement.

Cara Quackenbush, Executive Vice President of Research at Encoura, stated, “We are at a critical inflection point characterized by shifting demographics, evolving technology, and changes in public perception about higher education. We honor these universities for their resilience and focus on enhancing the student experience with innovative technology.”

About Encoura, LLC

Founded in 1972, Encoura is a leading provider of data-driven solutions, empowering over 2,000 member institutions. Their services cater to a diverse range of stakeholders, including students, high school educators, and colleges nationwide and abroad. Operating from Austin, Texas, and Boston, Massachusetts, Encoura's mission is to bridge the gap between students and the resources needed for success in higher education and their future careers.

For further details about the Innovation Awards and related initiatives, visit encoura.org.

Contact Information

Todd Boullion
Chief Marketing Officer, Encoura
Phone: (800) 862-7759
Email: info@encoura.org

Join us in celebrating these outstanding universities as they set a benchmark for excellence in higher education innovation.