March 13, 2025

NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University (NSU) is set to host a thought-provoking forum that will explore the practical applications of artificial intelligence in leadership and industry. Featuring distinguished experts Dr. Julian Bailes, Dr. Neilank Jha and Monty Chicola, Leadership in the Age of AI will take place on Wednesday, March 19, at 5:30 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall. This event is free and open to the public.

As NSU continues to establish itself as a leader in artificial intelligence and innovation, this forum will highlight real-world applications of AI in fields such as technology, medicine and business. Attendees will gain insights from distinguished professionals who have leveraged AI to drive advancements in their respective industries.

“Artificial intelligence is a leading topic at the forefront of both business and healthcare conversations and this is a great opportunity to learn from pioneers who are driving its use,” said Willis Knighton Health CEO Jaf Fielder.

Forum Highlights:

  • Dr. Neilank Jha, newly appointed NSU Distinguished Professor in Leadership & Neuroeconomics, will discuss his unique multidisciplinary approach to leadership, integrating Eastern and Western philosophies. Dr. Jha, a renowned neurosurgeon and behavioral economist, will begin teaching special topics courses at NSU this fall.
  • Dr. Julian Bailes, an NSU alumnus and renowned neurosurgeon, will share insights on brain health, sports-related injuries and the role of AI in advancing medical research. Bailes has been named one of Chicago Magazine’s “Top Brain Surgeons in Chicago” for 10 consecutive years.
  • Monty Chicola, NSU alumnus and founder of Real Vision Software, will provide an overview of his work in AI-driven enterprise computing and discuss the IBM i programming course he is currently teaching at NSU, which focuses on practical AI integration in business applications. His software company is now upgrading customers worldwide on how to make serious returns on investments in AI, today and moving into the future. He will be discussing the business case uses for AI in different office environments, including medical, transportation, government, insurance and manufacturing sectors.

“Artificial intelligence is already transforming the healthcare industry, and it’s critical for medical professionals and administrators to understand its impact,” said Natchitoches Regional Medical Center CEO Kirk Soileau. “This forum is a great opportunity for our team and the broader community to hear from experts on the forefront of AI’s integration into medicine, business, and technology.”

The forum also coincides with NSU’s recent announcement of the Lola Walker Dunahoe Endowed Chair, aimed at attracting top talent in interdisciplinary studies, reinforcing the university’s dedication to excellence in research and education.

For more information on Leadership in the Age of AI and to register for this free event, visit www.nsu.la/leadershipAI.