Katz School of Business recognized for innovation in AI education

The Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College received the Bobby G. Bizzell Innovative Achievement Award from the Southwest Business Deans Association for its thoughtful integration of artificial intelligence into business education.

The award recognizes business programs that demonstrate excellence and innovation in curriculum design, teaching, development, outreach, and administration. Liz Cartier, dean of the Katz School of Business, accepted the award at the association’s June 2026 conference in San Antonio.

“When AI began changing the business world, the Katz School knew we had a responsibility to respond,” Cartier said. “Our work has focused on building knowledge for both faculty and students, experimenting in the classroom, and engaging in thoughtful and meaningful discussions about the opportunities and challenges AI presents. I am proud of the work we have accomplished so far, but I know we are just getting started.”

The Katz School’s work supports the responsible use of AI in teaching and learning and complements the AI Institute’s efforts to expand AI literacy, experimentation, and collaboration at Fort Lewis College and throughout the Four Corners region.

Since launching its AI initiative, the school has provided professional development for faculty and staff to build AI literacy and support thoughtful adoption. The effort has led to AI integration into the curriculum of seven courses and one major. Most Katz staff have participated in AI professional development and regularly engage with AI tools in their work.

“The Katz School is demonstrating how faculty leadership and thoughtful experimentation can prepare students for a rapidly changing business environment,” said Mario Martinez, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs and founder of the AI Institute. “This recognition reflects an important contribution to the growing AI ecosystem at Fort Lewis College.”

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