When Dr. Glenn Platt—the C. Michael Armstrong Professor, Armstrong Institute Director, Farmer School Director of Technology, Innovation, & Partnerships, and Varsity Esports Co-Director—first joined Miami University, it was for one unique reason.
Glenn remembers, “they said, ‘We’re going to have you do a full teaching load. We still expect you to be a great researcher, but teaching matters here.’ That was really unique and it was the reason I chose Miami. It was the kind of place I wanted to work.”
During his time at Miami, Glenn has spearheaded technology and innovation initiatives across campus. He remembers the Libraries as a vital partner during this time. “The Library has been there always,” he said. “It’s like a rock and I’m greatly appreciative for that.”
Looking to the future, he also recognizes the unique role that the Libraries plays in evolving technology. In his view, generative AI represents a powerful shift that will force higher education to change—like higher education, AI can deliver learning. We will have to decide how to respond. Dr. Platt believes the Libraries remain positioned to guide the next generation of students.
“Libraries are uniquely well suited to helping students figure out how to navigate the AI landscape,” he said. “How do you frame a good question? How do you evaluate information when it’s being presented to you? It’s not just about the degree anymore. Potential employers are going to care that you did something, that you made something. We more than ever will be judged on what we can do and have done.”
After 33 years at Miami, Dr. Platt is preparing for his next chapter. His startup, Lyceum AI was acquired by Perceptyx, an AI company focused on employee experience. Part of that acquisition includes Dr. Platt who will stay on to help develop the product and the strategy.
“I’m kind of doing it backwards,” he admits. “I think most people do industry and then they go to higher ed. I’m doing it the other way.”
To honor his multi-decade legacy of innovation, the Miami University Libraries has awarded Dr. Glenn Platt with the Special Friends of the Library award. As a part of the award, his name will be added to a plaque in the Dean’s suite at King Library, and we will place an honorary bookplate in a newly purchased volume within his field.
With one final question, we asked Dr. Platt to recommend something for us to read. He gave us two single-word books that he read recently: Grit by Angela Duckworth and Range by David Epstein.