Aim/Purpose
This study examines faculty and administrator perceptions and attitudes toward cloud technology adoption in higher education, emphasizing institutional readiness for AI-enabled teaching and learning.

Background
While digital transformation drives institutional innovation, cloud-based systems present opportunities and challenges for instructional practices, pedagogy, and governance. This study explores faculty and administrative perspectives at a large university in California to understand factors shaping AI-ready educational environments.

Methodology
Data were collected through an online survey distributed to faculty and administrative staff. Responses were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis to identify recurring perceptions, perceived benefits, concerns, and organizational support for cloud adoption.

Contribution
The study offers insights into leadership, governance, and workforce readiness drivers that influence sustainable cloud adoption and establish a foundation for AI-supported teaching and learning innovations in higher education.

Findings
Four major themes emerged: (1) perceived institutional and pedagogical benefits, (2) cost-effectiveness and resource optimization, (3) privacy and data security concerns, and (4) leadership and readiness factors influencing adoption. Findings indicate that cloud technology enhances collaboration, accessibility, and operational efficiency, supporting flexible and innovative learning environments.

Recommendations for Practitioners
Institutions should prioritize strategic leadership, transparent governance, and targeted faculty training to enhance cloud adoption and build institutional readiness for AI-enabled teaching and learning.

Recommendations for Researchers
Future studies should examine cloud readiness across diverse institutions and assess how cloud adoption facilitates subsequent AI-supported educational innovations.

Impact on Society
Improved cloud readiness can expand access to innovative learning tools, increase institutional efficiency, and accelerate equitable and scalable adoption of AI-enabled educational technologies.

Future Research
Future studies should explore longitudinal relationships between cloud adoption maturity, faculty digital skill development, and successful integration of AI-supported teaching and learning environments.