BCG Executive Shares AI Insights with Fairfield Dolan Students
Stephen Edison ’03, a managing director and partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), led the spring 2025 Dolan Dean’s Executive Forum at Fairfield University. The forum, titled “From Algorithms to Impact: AI Trends in a Consulting Career,” provided nearly 100 students with insights into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and its impact on business.
Edison’s presentation offered a glimpse into his career trajectory, from the halls of Fairfield Dolan to a leadership position at a global consulting firm. He encouraged current business students to cultivate foundational skills like financial analysis and quantitative reasoning early in their academic and professional journey. These skills, he explained, would be instrumental in achieving long-term success.
During a discussion moderated by Zhan Li, DBA, dean of the Dolan School of Business, Edison discussed how artificial intelligence is being utilized in consulting. He provided examples of how AI is reshaping the way work is conducted across various industries. Furthermore, Edison challenged students to consider how they might leverage AI to personalize customer experiences, particularly in the realm of brand marketing.
Edison currently leads BCG’s technology & digital advantage practice globally, with a focus on technology, media, and telecommunications clients. He also heads the North American customer experience practice across multiple industries. He highlighted the value of his Jesuit education at Fairfield Dolan, which, he said, provided a solid foundation by balancing technical expertise with human-centered skills. Edison underscored the importance of ethical considerations, a principle he attributed to the values instilled in him during his time at Fairfield Dolan.
The Fairfield Dolan Dean’s Executive Forum is a bi-annual event that brings prominent speakers to campus. Alumni like Edison often take part, returning to Fairfield to share their expertise on relevant industry topics and real-world business applications, offering a valuable contribution to the University community.
Stephen Edison at the Dolan Dean’s Executive Forum.
