Tech Journalist Kara Swisher to Discuss Future of AI at Kean President’s Distinguished Lecture

New York Times best-selling author and tech journalist Kara Swisher, host of On with Kara Swisher and co-host of the Pivot podcast, will share her insights on artificial intelligence (AI) and technology on Tuesday, October 21, as part of Kean University’s President’s Distinguished Lecture Series.

The event, which is open to the public, will offer an insider’s view of the promise and perils of AI.

“This lecture series brings influential and visionary leaders to our campus to discuss critical topics, and as technology continues to change our world, there is no voice more insightful on artificial intelligence than renowned tech journalist and podcaster Kara Swisher,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D.

Swisher's visit comes at a pivotal moment for Kean, as the University strengthens its standing as an R2 research institution and launches bold new programs in technology and innovation. This semester, Kean introduced the state’s first bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence, part of the University’s growing AI ecosystem, which includes an AI Center of Excellence.

“Having Kara Swisher share her expertise gives our students a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sharpest voices in tech, with insights that will challenge and empower them as they shape the future of technology and society,” Repollet said.

The Distinguished Lecture will feature a question-and-answer format moderated by Kean Senior Vice President for Student Success Katherine Gallagher. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Gallagher said Swisher “digs deep into ethical questions” about AI. “Her perspective is invaluable, now more than ever,” she said.

The author of Burn Book: A Tech Love Story, Swisher will offer her thoughts on the power and impact of AI, along with other insights gained from a tech journalism career that began in Silicon Valley in the 1990s.

Swisher, a CNN contributor and editor-at-large of New Yorker Magazine, will also take part in a private classroom session with Kean students.

“Kara Swisher keeps it real about tech, and our students need that kind of honest perspective as they prepare to build the future," said Steve Cochran, manager of Kean Stage.

Tickets for the 4:30 p.m. Distinguished Lecture, being held at the North Avenue Academic Building on Kean’s Union campus, are available at www.kean.edu/lectureseries.

Swisher’s appearance is the first President’s Distinguished Lecture of the 2025-2026 academic year. Upcoming events in the series include lectures from Mark A. Tatum, deputy commissioner and COO of the NBA, on Monday, November 17, and Nate Burleson, Emmy Award-winning analyst and CBS Mornings co-host on Thursday, February 12, 2026.