Elliott Cheu, interim chief information officer at the University of Arizona, has spent nearly a year focusing on improving technology and teamwork within the university. Let’s take a closer look at some of the significant changes and what’s next for IT.
One major initiative involved migrating 73,000 student email accounts from Gmail to Outlook last July. This change will soon extend to university alumni and retirees, with a total of 240,000 accounts shifting platforms. This migration aims to reduce confusion and enhance security by creating a unified email system.
Another exciting development is the launch of Mobile CatCard, now available in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. A remarkable 93% of incoming first-year students are already using it, which simplifies access to campus buildings and services without needing physical cards. This not only cuts down on plastic waste but also streamlines our IT systems. The ease of tapping into buildings via smartphones has been a popular change, though faculty and staff are adopting it more slowly.
Cheu shared that when he stepped into this interim role, the University of Arizona’s IT Services (UITS) was still adjusting to changes. They’ve since restructured teams to deliver better services, focusing on how technology supports learning and research. The setup now allows for specialized support tailored to different colleges and departments, improving overall service speed and collaboration.
Cheu also actively sought feedback from the campus community. Many noted that while core IT services are strong, there’s room for improvement in communication and usability. Feedback highlighted the need for enhanced high-performance computing support, better data management, and clearer access to essential services.
To address these needs, UITS has initiated a strategic planning process to prioritize improvements. This will include simplifying services, enhancing governance, and strengthening partnerships throughout the campus. They aim to share this new strategy with the community in February 2026.
The most rewarding part of Cheu’s experience has been connecting with people across the university. He’s found that technology plays a vital role in many unexpected ways. His “Lunches with the CIO” have not only fostered personal connections but also showcased the talent and dedication of the UITS staff.
In a world where technology evolves rapidly, staying in touch with user needs and experiences is crucial. Recent trends show an increasing call for user-friendly tech solutions in educational institutions, with students often leading the charge for change.
As universities adapt to the digital age, understanding the community’s feedback will be essential for continued progress and success.
For further insights on technology in higher education, check out this report on digital transformation trends.
