Director of Information Technology; Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University

Shaping My IT Leadership Journey 

Throughout my career, I’ve led transformative IT initiatives. As IT Director of Poole College at NC State University, I focus on fostering cross-functional collaboration and driving innovation. I rebuilt the IT department and designed the IT service desk, providing impactful, real-world experiences for students. I introduced project management tools like Monday.com and developed the first IT budget integrated into a scalable Enterprise Asset Management (SnipeIT) solution for Poole College of Management. Additionally, I standardized processes and implemented cost-saving measures, including Sharp Business Systems, reducing costs by 67%. I also led the deployment of NC State’s first Globus High Assurance Collections environment for secure research data.

At Duke University, I contributed to key research initiatives, launching Advanced Light Imaging & Spectroscopy (ALIS), redesigning the Phytotron’s growth chamber system (saving $800,000), and supporting the MorphoSource project. These experiences, along with my leadership in security and compliance, have prepared me to deliver scalable, strategic IT solutions.

Driving Cost Savings and Scalability           

I take a holistic approach that combines financial discipline with strategic foresight to deliver cost-effective, future-ready IT initiatives. By leveraging a hybrid infrastructure of on-premises and cloud computing, I align IT solutions with each business unit’s needs while optimizing costs. This ensures efficient resource allocation without sacrificing functionality or scalability. Embedding resilience in every initiative is key, supported by robust business continuity and disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime and data loss risks. I prioritize iterative development and continuous feedback to refine processes, address inefficiencies, and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Long-term value stems from adopting automation and standardization. Tools like Monday.com, SLACK Enterprise, GitBook, and SnipeIT streamline operations, enhance project tracking, and foster transparency, driving cost savings and operational excellence. By consistently evaluating emerging technologies and evolving business needs, I ensure IT investments remain adaptable and scalable, providing immediate savings and a strong foundation for future growth.

Optimizing Cloud and Ensuring Security  

I optimize cloud usage by aligning workloads with the most suitable environment to balance performance, cost efficiency, and security. I use hybrid models to ensure sensitive data remains on-premises for compliance, while leveraging cloud scalability for non-sensitive workloads. For instance, I deployed AWS AppStream to deliver virtual applications and utilized Google Cloud for scalable data analysis and machine learning.

Security is central to my approach. I’ve implemented robust incident response protocols using tools like ServiceNow. I developed proactive strategies, including vulnerability assessments, system audits, and disaster recovery planning, ensuring resilience and mitigating potential risks before impacting operations.

Harnessing Emerging Technologies for a Connected Campus     

Emerging technologies like AI, ML, IoT, and blockchain are transforming higher education IT, fostering a connected university ecosystem. AI-driven analytics personalize learning, while ML improves retention through predictive insights. IoT automates energy use, enhances sustainability, and improves safety through real-time environmental monitoring.

  IT must act as a strategic partner to departments like Marketing, Finance, and Research. Open communication and alignment with organizational goals help streamline operations, break down silos, and create unified, data-driven strategies. 

Platforms like VIVO centralize scholarly data and promote collaboration, while blockchain secures data sharing, ensuring transparency and trust in global research. These innovations support hybrid learning environments, enabling seamless collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. Real-time communication tools and advanced analytics personalize learning experiences, fostering inclusivity. Strategic integration of these tools helps universities build resilient, adaptive IT infrastructure that drives innovation and enhances academic performance.

Ensuring Transparency in IT Spending       

Ensuring transparency and accountability in IT spending requires a collaborative and structured approach. I prioritize open communication, engaging stakeholders like leadership and financial officers to align IT initiatives with strategic goals. This ensures that budget decisions support institutional priorities and deliver maximum impact.

Using tools like Monday.com, I centralize project tracking and budget management, providing real-time insights into spending and resource utilization. These tools help monitor progress, address inefficiencies, and enable data-driven decisions. I foster a culture of accountability by involving stakeholders throughout budgeting and planning, ensuring a clear understanding of objectives and outcomes. Regular review meetings keep initiatives aligned with priorities. By adopting lean agile methodologies, I consistently evaluate ROI, reallocating resources to high-value activities and maintaining IT spending that is transparent, strategically aligned, and fiscally responsible.

Key Advice for Aspiring IT Directors

● Commit to Lifelong Learning: The rapid pace of technological change requires continuous learning. Staying informed about emerging tools and best practices allows IT directors to implement competitive solutions and anticipate industry shifts effectively.

● Foster Cross-Functional Collaboration: IT must act as a strategic partner to departments like Marketing, Finance, and Research. Open communication and alignment with organizational goals help streamline operations, break down silos, and create unified, data-driven strategies.

● Reduce Duplicative Efforts and Spending: Eliminating redundancies by consolidating tools, systems, and processes enhances efficiency and enables deeper vendor discounts. Integrating tools like Monday.com reduces costs while improving resource tracking and allocation.

● Invest in Automation and Optimization: Automation scales operations and frees up team members for strategic initiatives. Optimizing workflows reduces bottlenecks and ensures smooth operations while focusing on security, protecting sensitive data, and meeting compliance standards.

● Develop Soft Skills: Effective communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are essential for leading diverse teams and managing change. These skills foster trust, collaboration, and a positive work environment.

● Be a Mentor and Drive Innovation: Mentorship fosters a learning culture and builds future leaders. IT leadership involves inspiring innovation, empowering teams, and creating an environment for continuous improvement and professional growth, ensuring readiness for an automated, data-driven world.