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  • Supporting Relationships & Data: Notre Dame's Development Office IT Team

    Supporting Relationships & Data: Notre Dame's Development Office IT Team
    2025/07/14
    "Behind the Screens IT at ND: Episode 16" features hosts Diana and Scooter, who welcome Rose Michalski, IT Support Services Associate Program Director, and Andrew Yokum, Associate Director of Integration Services, from the University of Notre Dame's Development Office IT and Services Team. This episode delves into the unique IT landscape of the Development Office, which supports over 400 employees across 58 teams and operates as a large IT organization distinct from central OIT. Rose, celebrating 41 years at Notre Dame and retiring soon, oversees end-user support, hardware/software provisioning, AV technology, and daily operational IT needs, including the complex process of CWP deployments and user provisioning/deprovisioning. Andrew's side of the team, comprising about 20 people, focuses on application services (Salesforce CRM, Marketing Cloud), data integration (moving data between systems, Salesforce development with Apex), BI (data warehousing), and reporting/analytics (Tableau, Business Objects), constantly consulting with constituents on data requests and flows. Unique challenges include matching external constituent data to avoid duplicates for their million-plus records, webinar creation and support, managing JP Morgan check scanners, and supporting Notre Dame Day. They've also innovated with Tango hoteling software for collaborative spaces and mobile Zoom carts for conference rooms. Both Rose and Andrew emphasize the importance of compassion, continuous learning, and networking in their consultancy roles, which involve comprehensive hardware/software support, managing AV, account provisioning, and constant data consultation to align with university policies and streamline processes

    Takeaways
    • Rose has been at Notre Dame for 41 years, showcasing a long career in IT.
    • Andrew transitioned from corporate software development to IT at Notre Dame.
    • The Development Office has 58 teams, each contributing to fundraising efforts.
    • IT consultancy involves providing comprehensive technology support and solutions.
    • User provisioning is a complex and time-consuming process.
    • The team uses various tools like ServiceNow, Salesforce, and Tableau.
    • Collaboration is key in managing IT support and data integration.
    • Unique challenges include managing relationships with alumni and parents.
    • The team has streamlined processes significantly post-pandemic.
    • Rose emphasizes the importance of networking and continuous learning.
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    43 分
  • Building Trust: The People-First Approach in IT with Jane Livingston

    Building Trust: The People-First Approach in IT with Jane Livingston
    2025/06/30
    This podcast episode features an interview with Jane Livingston, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for the University of Notre Dame, discussing her leadership philosophy of "people first, technology second." She reflects on fostering trust and a collaborative culture within Notre Dame's IT community, contrasting it with a prior "command and control" approach. Livingston emphasizes empowering staff through "headroom" for innovation and accountability, highlighting the importance of front-line IT consultants in identifying solutions and the need for continued learning in a rapidly changing technological landscape, particularly concerning AI. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about Livingston's personal preferences and the hosts' reflections on the podcast's first season and plans for future video episodes.

    Takeaways

    • Jane Livingston has a diverse background in IT leadership across several universities.
    • The IT community at Notre Dame has transformed to be more inclusive and communicative.
    • Building trust within the IT community is essential for collaboration.
    • A 'People First' approach is crucial in higher education IT leadership.
    • Empathy and listening are key components in solving IT challenges.
    • Innovation requires headroom and a culture that encourages risk-taking.
    • Accountability is necessary alongside trust in a team environment.
    • IT consultants have a unique perspective on the needs of the university.
    • Continuous learning and engagement are vital for IT professionals.
    • The future of IT at Notre Dame is focused on partnerships and collaboration.
    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters), Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology), and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technicin: Service Desk) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    53 分
  • Passing the Mic: Diana Takes the Helm as Krista Embraces a New Passion

    Passing the Mic: Diana Takes the Helm as Krista Embraces a New Passion
    2025/06/15
    In this episode of Behind the Screens, the team welcomes Diana Garcia, a new IT support technician, who shares her journey from studying neuroscience to working in IT. The conversation explores her experiences at the service desk, the confidence she has gained in her new role, and her advice for students considering career pivots. Krista announces her transition to co-leading an employee resource group, while reflecting on the relationships built during the podcast's first season. Diana expresses her excitement about becoming a co-host and the opportunity to connect with more people in the IT community at Notre Dame. In this episode, the hosts engage in a light-hearted discussion about personal preferences, commuting challenges, and fun games that reveal compatibility among the group.

    Takeaways

    • Diana Garcia transitioned from neuroscience to IT after discovering her passion for technology.
    • Working at the service desk has provided Diana with valuable experiences and insights.
    • Confidence in one's career can significantly impact job satisfaction and performance.
    • It's important to listen to your instincts when considering career changes.
    • Krista is stepping down as host to focus on new responsibilities with an employee resource group.
    • The podcast has fostered meaningful relationships among the team members.
    • Diana is excited to connect with more people in the IT community.
    • The importance of bridging gaps in understanding between IT and end-users is emphasized.
    • The podcast serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences in technology.
    • Diana identifies as a dog person, while Scott prefers cats.
    • Teleportation is favored over invisibility for time-saving.
    • The hosts discuss their dining hall preferences.
    • Diana relates to Belle from Beauty and the Beast.
    • Krista shares a humorous story about coffee pot sabotage.
    • Diana expresses gratitude for being part of the show.
    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    41 分
  • Inside the Campus Workstation Program: Insights from Jennifer Parker

    Inside the Campus Workstation Program: Insights from Jennifer Parker
    2025/06/02
    In this episode of Behind the Screens IT at ND, hosts Scooter and Krista welcome Jennifer Parker, a Senior CWP Specialist, to discuss the Campus Workstation Program (CWP) at the University of Notre Dame. Jennifer shares insights into her role, the program's eligibility criteria, and the importance of technology in enhancing productivity and security. The conversation delves into team dynamics, daily operations, inventory management, and the challenges faced in maintaining effective communication and relationships across various departments. Additionally, they explore the evolution of policies based on feedback and the strategic partnerships that support the program's success. In this conversation, Jennifer Parker discusses the intricacies of asset management within the Campus Workstation Program (CWP) and the importance of understanding user needs. She envisions a future where endpoint machines are seamlessly delivered to users while also addressing the challenges of varying tech savviness among users. The formation of a CWP steering committee aims to enhance collaboration and improve the program based on feedback from various stakeholders. With a significant refresh year ahead, the conversation also touches on personal interests and insights into communication styles.

    takeaways
    • Jennifer Parker has been with the university for about two and a half years.
    • The Campus Workstation Program was created to provide employees with the necessary technology.
    • Eligibility for CWP machines is typically for full-time employees and faculty.
    • The refresh cycle for CWP machines is every four years.
    • CWP machines are managed centrally to ensure security and productivity.
    • The team structure has evolved to improve the client experience.
    • Daily operations involve extensive communication and prioritization of tasks.
    • Inventory management is crucial due to frequent technology updates.
    • Partnerships with vendors like Dell and CDW enhance service delivery.
    • Feedback from departments can lead to significant changes in policy. We need to pump the brakes and spend time understanding user needs.
    • The vision for CWP includes direct delivery of endpoint machines to users.
    • Maintaining personal relationships in IT support is crucial.
    • Collaboration and feedback are essential for program improvement.
    • The CWP steering committee will address eligibility and budget concerns.
    • Understanding user feedback can help rectify eligibility issues.
    • This year will see a significant increase in computer refreshes.
    • Personal interests can influence professional communication styles.
    • The five love languages can enhance workplace relationships.

      About this podcast:
      Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

      Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

      With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    56 分
  • London Calling: IT at the ND Global Gateway

    London Calling: IT at the ND Global Gateway
    2025/05/16
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND welcomes Abdikhaaliq Osman, IT Solutions Coordinator for the University of Notre Dame London campus. Osman provides insights into his role supporting the London location, which he describes as equivalent to second-line support with additional coordination and local vendor management responsibilities. He discusses the small team size in London and the goal for full staffing.

    Learn about the challenges of supporting a global gateway across time zones, including the ongoing effort to integrate with the service desk and utilize ticketing via ServiceNow. Discover the unique dynamic of supporting a revolving door of visiting faculty, staff, and students, alongside permanent residents like the law school faculty. Osman shares details about daily IT support, including proactive maintenance checks, and supporting classrooms and events on the campus's four floors.

    Hear about the tools and systems used, noting the local differences in printing services (PaperCut) and the network setup. Find out how preparation and planning help Osman avoid burnout in his busy, single-threaded role. Get a glimpse into the local flavor of central London.

    Plus, enjoy some fun facts as Osman talks about his interest in psychology, recommends a book ("The Midnight Library"), discusses a past career as a pharmacist, and shares a dream job swap. Stick around for the new "Did You Know Tech Edition" trivia segment.

    Notes: Video mentioned in the episode for student orientation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15VjyQRJUHi0Xopsl0xRkAzQjqwzAIpJ8/view?ts=68276c55

    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    37 分
  • Building IT Partnerships: A Conversation with LeeSonn Smith

    Building IT Partnerships: A Conversation with LeeSonn Smith
    2025/05/04
    In this episode of Behind the Screens: IT@ND, we sit down with LeeSonn Smith, an IT Solutions Consultant from OIT’s Enhanced Technology Partnerships (ETP) group. LeeSonn shares his inspiring journey—from early influences by his father and experiences at the Apple Store to joining Notre Dame five and a half years ago and advancing into his current role two years ago.
    As an IT Partnerships - Gold team member, LeeSonn and a team of 8 support 16 departments, including Enrollment, the Graduate School, and campus museums, serving as a “one-stop shop” for IT needs. His work ranges from day-to-day support to major initiatives like deploying iPads for campus tours. LeeSonn offers a glimpse into how he manages time effectively across departments using office hours, ServiceNow, MECM, Jamf Pro, and the new Flow Code platform.
    We also dive into the launch of the new IT Consultancy Community of Practice—a collaborative effort designed to define the consultant role and create a space for sharing strategies and best practices, with the inaugural meeting on May 8th spotlighting budget considerations.
    Beyond IT, LeeSonn reveals his musical roots, with a background in music education and a passion for playing the flute. Tune in to hear how his diverse skills and experiences continue to shape his approach to IT consulting at Notre Dame.

    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    48 分
  • Securing ND: Lauren Ajamie on 1Password and Trusted Access

    Securing ND: Lauren Ajamie on 1Password and Trusted Access
    2025/04/15
    In this episode of Behind the Screens: IT at ND, hosts Krista and Scooter sit down with Lauren Ajamie, a Senior Identity and Access Management Solutions Analyst, to explore her unique career path—from studying Greek, Latin, and library science to becoming a key player in Notre Dame’s cybersecurity landscape.
    After a quick update for the IT Consultancy Community of Practice, the conversation dives into the world of secure access. Lauren unpacks the power of One Password, the campus-wide password manager, spotlighting its secure storage, autofill features, breach alerts, MFA support, and shared vaults for teams and families. The crew also tackles the growing need to ditch SMS-based multifactor authentication in favor of stronger options like Okta Verify and the seamless, passwordless experience of Okta FastPass.
    Lauren demystifies the broader field of Identity and Access Management (IAM), explaining how authentication, authorization, and provisioning work together behind the scenes. She also previews what’s coming next through the Trusted Access initiative—ND’s approach to smarter, more dynamic security.
    Wrapping up on a personal note, the episode closes with “Consultant Quirks,” where Lauren shares book recommendations and a few of her favorite things beyond the screen.

    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    44 分
  • Teamwork and Tech Solutions at the Keough School of Global Affairs

    Teamwork and Tech Solutions at the Keough School of Global Affairs
    2025/04/03
    This episode of Behind the Screens IT at ND welcomes Sergio Cerda, IT solutions specialist team lead for the Keough School of Global Affairs. The conversation explores Sergio's journey into IT consultancy at the University of Notre Dame, contrasting his experiences in the private sector with Notre Dame's mission-driven environment. The episode delves into the structure of the IT team at the Keough School and Sergio's role as team lead, including the team-centric approach. A key topic discussed is the Help Desk Dispatch pilot program and its impact on their work. The hosts and Sergio also discuss the composition and mission of the Keough School of Global Affairs and how IT consultancy there has evolved beyond essential break-fix support to include more proactive and strategic initiatives. The conversation highlights innovative projects such as using VR for immersive student experiences and leveraging AI to streamline information sharing. The episode also touches upon the tools they utilize, including Service Now and unique challenges like event support and their approach to internal communications.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.

    Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.

    With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.
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    33 分