Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is welcoming a new chief information officer, Tom Armstrong, on January 9, 2026. Armstrong brings a wealth of experience from both the tech industry and education. He has worked at big names like Deloitte, IBM, and PwC, focusing on auditing and infrastructure management. For two years, he also taught at Gateway Community College in Connecticut. Most recently, Armstrong was the assistant vice president for enterprise systems at Fairfield University for nearly six years.
Lillian Wanjagi, SCSU’s vice president for finance and administration, expressed enthusiasm about Armstrong’s role, emphasizing that it will boost technology services and drive innovation to support student success and organizational excellence.
Before joining SCSU, Armstrong was in charge of IT strategy for Connecticut’s state government. He managed operations for 40 state agencies, making significant contributions in cybersecurity and digital transformation. Earlier this year, he even published a book detailing his insights on IT leadership.
Armstrong believes that being a CIO today involves a strong focus on people, not just technology. He stated, “Building trust and clarity will matter just as much as any individual system or tool.”
During his time in state government, he helped improve data visualizations and expand Wi-Fi access across the state. These are part of efforts to close the digital divide and promote digital equality.
At SCSU, Armstrong sees the need to balance stability with innovation. He noted that while universities often focus on consistent services, they also need flexibility to adapt to evolving technologies. The school’s strategic plan highlights efforts to modernize workflows, keeping up with the demands of today’s digital-native students.
A recent survey by Educause found that 83% of higher education IT leaders view digital transformation as a high priority. Armstrong echoed this, stating that strong partnerships with faculty will be vital as they implement AI technologies in education.
He believes that clear communication about the limitations of technology is essential. Ultimately, he stressed the importance of aligning new initiatives with the university’s mission, aiming to meet multiple needs effectively.
Armstrong’s approach could be transformative during a time when universities face tightening budgets and increasing demands for modernization. As higher education adapts, the role of technology becomes ever more critical in preparing students for future careers.
In summary, Tom Armstrong’s leadership at SCSU could guide the university through important changes, all while nurturing a culture that respects both tradition and innovation.
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