Biography

Vice Chancellor for Finance and Strategic AI Integration & Treasurer, University of Maine System

Ryan Low serves as the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Strategic AI Integration & Treasurer for the University of Maine System (UMS), where he oversees financial operations, resource management, and administrative functions across the system’s seven universities. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, operational efficiency, and the strategic use of AI, he works to ensure the system remains financially sustainable while supporting its mission of accessible, high-quality education for Maine’s students.

Ryan has extensive experience in public administration, higher education finance, and AI integration. He is an active voice in discussions on the role of AI in higher education, presenting at events such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) in Boston and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) in Chicago. He is a member of Governor Janet Mills’ Maine Artificial Intelligence Task Force and co-chairs the UMS AI Task Force, helping to guide responsible AI adoption within the university system. Additionally, he is a member of the Generative AI Network for Accreditation and Higher Education (GAIN-AHEAD), an HLC-convened group focused on AI applications in accreditation, institutional operations, and policy development.

Before his current role, Ryan held leadership positions at UMS, including Vice President for Administration and Finance at the Orono and Farmington campuses. He also served as Commissioner of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services for the State of Maine, where he managed the state’s budget during a period of economic uncertainty.

Ryan’s approach to leadership emphasizes collaboration, strategic planning, and innovation, ensuring that financial and technological advancements align with the evolving needs of students, faculty, and institutions. His work continues to support the responsible integration of emerging technologies while maintaining a strong focus on financial stewardship and institutional success.