Since the summer of 2024, FIU Business has been developing what we call AI360°. The goal of this artificial intelligence (AI) initiative is to ensure that every student understands the tools and how to leverage them in their disciplines to solve problems, innovate and make datadriven decisions. AI is already transforming business. In the cover feature in this issue of FIU Business Now, our faculty and alumni experts weigh in on how AI is reshaping two key industries – healthcare, and logistics and supply chain management. Learn why the implementation of AI often requires careful oversight.

The Knowledge Center section of the magazine also touches on AI. New research reveals how older adults feel about turning to AI-powered human-like robots for companionship and healthcare management. Other research in this issue shows how more lenient return polices offered by retailers impact customer reviews and what impact suppressing boredom in the workplace has on productivity later in the day.

In case you missed the premier real estate conference hosted by FIU Business this past fall, we offer a recap for you (page 11). Learn about the trends shaping the South Florida real estate market and hear how some of the industry's top leaders feel about the future of real estate in the region.

Readers will also meet three FIU Business alumni who are making their mark (pages 24 – 27). They include a music executive for Warner Music Group who shares how he worked his way up in the entertainment industry; the founder of a staffing firm who positions himself as a business partner rather than a traditional headhunter; and the director of clinical operations at one of the nation's largest public healthcare networks, who oversees a complex project harmonizing patient care protocols across many divisions.

And finally, we tout our accomplishments since the last magazine issue, from top college rankings to the many ways we are connecting small business owners with growth opportunities. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our alumni and other friends in the community. Thank you for your support and I hope you enjoy this issue of FIU Business Now.

William Hardin,
Dean, FIU College of Business