In this conversation with EdUp Provost Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Mary Wright discusses the significance of Centers for Teaching and Learning (CTLs) in higher education, their impact on faculty and student success, and the challenges they face, including faculty resistance and the integration of new technologies like AI. She emphasizes the need for continuous professional development in teaching, the importance of aligning CTLs with institutional priorities, and the balance between teaching and research in academia. In this conversation, Wright and Thuswaldner discuss the evolving landscape of teaching excellence in higher education. They explore the importance of continuous professional learning, the need to rethink reward structures for teaching, and the role of Centers for Teaching and Learning in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and diversity, equity, and inclusion. They also address the challenges faced by these centers in demonstrating their value and the necessity of supporting change agents within educational institutions. Takeaways • Assessment of CTLs should include participation and satisfaction. • Faculty engagement with CTLs is crucial for perceived value. • Teaching is a complex and continuous professional activity. • CTLs can help navigate resistance to new teaching methodologies. • AI integration in education requires nuanced approaches.