University Leaders to Test AI Agents in Simulated Environments for Operational Efficiency
Over the next six months, executive leaders at 15 higher-education institutions will participate in a new initiative to test artificial intelligence (AI) agents in a simulated environment. This project, developed by Oracle and Drivestream, is called the AiPEX Experience Center. It aims to explore how AI can augment university operations, focusing on tasks such as enrollment, financial aid, academic planning, advising, student engagement, and resource allocation. Tulane University, for example, plans to use AI for capital allocation, service delivery, and risk management. The initiative reflects a broader trend in higher education to leverage technology for cost savings and efficiency amid rising operational costs and funding cuts. A 2025 report by Illumia indicated that 97% of institutions are exploring AI adoption, with 84% already piloting AI solutions. 
