Roger Williams University

Daryl Ford is the CIO at Roger Williams University and oversees all technology systems and support services. With a background in electrical engineering from Northeastern University and advanced degrees in IT and Business Administration from UMass Boston, Ford has diverse expertise. He is an active member of Educause and NERCOMP and has presented at various conferences on topics like cloud computing, data storage, and enterprise architecture.

A Journey through IT

Nearly three decades of experience across IT, government, and higher education have shaped my career. For the past 10 years, I have served as CIO at Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, overseeing the university’s technology infrastructure and operations. My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering, an MBA, and a master’s in IT. I am also pursuing a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership, with plans to complete it this spring.

The Four Pillars of Higher Education Technology Challenges

As a higher-education CIO, I know several key challenges shape the landscape. Cost control and shrinking budgets are major concerns, particularly for selective institutions, where financial constraints can limit technology investments. Cybersecurity is another constant issue, with evolving threats that require ongoing vigilance to protect sensitive data and ensure operational continuity. The rapid growth of AI presents opportunities and risks as institutions explore how to leverage their capabilities without compromising security or ethics. Additionally, driving enrollment growth through technology is crucial, as sustained enrollment is essential for an institution's financial health and long-term success.

These challenges influence a university’s ability to adopt new technologies and meet its objectives. Financial investment in emerging technologies is often substantial, and without careful planning, it can strain budgets. A cybersecurity breach can disrupt operations, shake trust, and damage the institution’s reputation. AI must be implemented with caution to ensure responsible data management. Lastly, enrollment growth remains a critical factor—without it, institutions struggle to maintain the resources necessary for innovation and success.

Tackling Compliance and Security in Higher Education

Institutions are addressing these challenges in different ways, but those succeeding tend to focus on a few key strategies. First, they emphasize robust risk management, internally and externally. Regular audits—conducted by a mix of third-party experts and internal teams—are crucial to identifying and addressing regulatory gaps. Additionally, mandatory compliance training for faculty, staff, and students is essential to protecting institutional assets and ensuring ongoing awareness.

Cybersecurity is another critical area, with many institutions investing in dedicated personnel to safeguard their systems. Lastly, strong data governance policies are necessary, ensuring clear guidelines for accessing, using, and managing data. These steps are integral in maintaining regulatory compliance and addressing the challenges of higher education institutions.

The Power of AI in the Student Lifecycle

Automation and AI are transforming higher education by enhancing every stage of the student life cycle, from initial inquiry to alumni engagement. During recruitment, AI-driven tools such as chatbots deliver personalized communication and instant responses to prospective students. AI streamlines processes in the application and admission phases, reducing manual tasks and keeping students informed about their status.

Once enrolled, AI provides customized academic support, identifying students who may be struggling and enabling early intervention to improve retention. After graduation, AI continues to engage alumni through tailored messaging, fostering lifelong connections. These advancements, all powered by data, make AI a key driver in the ongoing transformation of higher education operations.

“Developing strong communication skills is crucial for leadership, as engaging and inspiring others is important to success in managerial roles.”

Closing the Digital Divide with Targeted Training

Technology offers many solutions to address challenges in higher education, and one particular initiative I'm focused on is improving post-secondary student digital literacy. I developed an online digital literacy course for my doctoral dissertation aimed at first-year and transfer students. This course was designed to bridge the digital divide by teaching students how to navigate campus IT resources, manage data, and be cybersecurity-aware, among other skills. It has proven to be highly successful in improving student readiness for the technology used in higher education.

While Gen Z is often considered tech-savvy, many students enter college lacking familiarity with the specific technologies used in higher education. This course helps bridge that gap by teaching students how to navigate campus IT resources, manage data, and understand cyber-security, among other essential skills. The program has been highly successful, and I'm proud of its positive impact.

A Timeless Tool for Accessible Education

The meta-verse and immersive learning technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) aren't new, though they have recently taken a backseat to the rapid rise of AI. While AI is currently the focus, I still see significant potential in immersive technologies like VR and AR, particularly for fields like engineering, biology, and medicine. These technologies can also address accessibility challenges, offering virtual classrooms and labs that can expand educational opportunities.

Key Strategies for Future Tech Leaders

Early-career IT professionals aiming for managerial roles should consider several important steps. Gaining exposure to different areas of the business, such as finance, HR, and student life, is essential. Smaller to mid-size institutions often provide more opportunities for cross-functional interaction, offering a broader understanding of the business side of higher education. Building a strong set of credentials is also important; pursuing certifications or micro-credentials in your area of expertise can significantly enhance your qualifications.

Networking is vital in career growth, as the IT community is relatively small, and future opportunities often arise from connections made earlier. Pursuing an advanced degree can also be beneficial, as higher management positions usually require more education than just a certificate or undergraduate degree. Studying the career paths of successful CIOs and leaders can provide valuable insights and help inform your journey. Above all, developing strong communication skills is crucial for leadership, as engaging and inspiring others is important to success in managerial roles.