Hello. I am Walter Schwarz, the Interim Chief Information Officer here at Southern. Welcome back to campus for the fall semester! I am thrilled to see our vibrant community come alive once again with your energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning.
Over the summer, the Information Technology team has been hard at work ensuring you have updated tools and resources at your disposal. Some key projects we recently completed are:
- A new mobile app was launched with an improved experience including an AI powered predictive search.
- Many “code blue” telephones across campus were updated to a more modern technology.
- The computers in many spaces were updated, including Math, Art, and Music.
Additionally, the following project will be completed soon:
- The financial aid website will be updated to deploy an AI powered assistant to answer financial aid questions.
In addition to these projects, IT is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported. We believe that embracing diversity in all its forms enriches our community and enhances the educational experience for everyone. Our IT department is dedicated to ensuring that all students have equal access to technology and the opportunities it provides.
As we embark on this new academic year, I encourage you to take full advantage of the technological resources available to you. Explore new tools, engage in innovative projects, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Your creativity and curiosity are what drives us to continually improve and innovate.
Our IT support team is always here to assist you with any technical issues or questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us through the Help Desk.
Wishing you success in your studies.
Walter
