Brad Carson reflects on legacy at TU and looks ahead to AI leadership role in Washington

FULL INTERVIEW

After four years at the helm of the University of Tulsa, President Brad Carson is stepping down to take on a new leadership role in artificial intelligence policy based in Washington, D.C. In a wide-ranging interview at the News On 6 Digital Desk, Carson shared his reflections on his time at TU, the future of college athletics, and the critical moment the world faces in developing responsible AI governance.

Leading TU through Transformation

A Tulsa native, Carson became TU’s 21st president in 2021 and quickly set a bold agenda for academics and for raising the university’s profile throughout the city and region. From transforming game day experiences to expanding TU’s visual presence across Tulsa, Carson emphasized the importance of embedding the university within the community’s culture.

“A university should be driving the culture, a lot of the entertainment, the arts,” Carson said.

Division I Athletics: An Investment, Not a Drain

During his tenure, Carson championed a renewed commitment to Division I athletics. Despite internal debate over whether TU should drop to a lower division, he made a compelling case for staying the course.

“The only thing more expensive than a Division I program is a terrible Division I program,” Carson said, explaining the financial and reputational cost of poor performance.

He cited the University of Hartford’s move to Division III as a cautionary tale, which led to internal strife and diminished national visibility.

Under Carson, TU invested significantly in athletics, hiring Athletic Director Justin Moore and coaches like Trey Lamb and Eric Konkol. He emphasized that athletics is the university’s "front door," attracting visibility, students, and donors.

Preparing for the Next Realignment in College Sports

Carson warned that a major shakeup in college athletics could come as early as 2031 when major TV contracts expire.

Carson urged TU to invest now to remain in the competitive mix, aiming to align the university with peer institutions like Wake Forest, Rice, and Tulane rather than risk falling into a lower athletic tier.

“We need to be in that next cut of schools when the realignment happens,” Carson said. “That means winning now, building now, and positioning ourselves for the future.”

A New Era in College Sports: NIL and Athlete Compensation

Carson acknowledged the challenges of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, calling it “a disaster” in its current form.

He explained that TU is adapting by incorporating athlete compensation into university payroll systems and encouraging donors to support these new models.

“It’s not about liking the system, it’s about surviving in it,” Carson said.

Reflections on Leadership and Legacy

Carson credited his deep connection with students, staff, and the wider Tulsa community as the most meaningful part of his presidency. From giving out his personal cell phone to every student to navigating difficult decisions during the pandemic, he said the people of TU made the experience special.

He also praised his leadership team, especially Athletic Director Justin Moore, whom he called “one of the best hires we’ve made at TU.”

Turning to AI at a Pivotal Time

As Carson transitions to a new role as president of the American Research Institute (ARI) in Washington, D.C., Carson said he sees artificial intelligence as one of the defining issues of our time.

His interest in AI began during his tenure at the U.S. Department of Defense and has grown into a professional passion. At ARI, Carson hopes to help shape the national conversation on ethical and responsible AI development.

“This is a critical three-to-five-year window,” he said. “If we don’t set guardrails now, AI could do more harm than good.”

Final Thoughts

Carson’s departure comes at a time of major change for both the university and higher education broadly. While TU searches for a new president, Carson remains optimistic about the institution’s future.

“We’re set up for success,” Carson said. “The investments have been made, the people are in place, and the commitment is there. I’ll always be proud to have been a part of that.”