A STAR is born as ITS teams with Student Affairs to engage students in University’s IT decision making

A STAR is born as ITS teams with Student Affairs to engage students in University’s IT decision makingApril 28, 2008SU News ServicesSUnews@syr.edu

For the first time, students are being asked to play a leading role in setting the future direction for Syracuse University’s IT infrastructure, thanks to the creation of the Student Technology Advisory Roundtable (STAR).

STAR, formed by Paul Gandel, vice president for information technology and services/CIO, and Anastasia L. Urtz, associate vice president and dean of students, is envisioned as a way to engage the student body in the evolution of an outstanding technological environment that is aligned with the mission of the University.

Student members of STAR will have the opportunity to influence today’s choices about new technologies and services, and to help shape the IT direction the campus takes in the future. They will test new technologies and provide valuable feedback that will become part of the decision-making process regarding future IT services and purchases.

Student members will work with Information Technology and Services (ITS) and the Division of Student Affairs to assess the state of IT plans, projects, services and infrastructure at SU, in the higher education community, and within the technology industry; ensure student involvement in setting technology directions and guiding implementations; prioritize, develop, provide feedback and continually assess strategic directions and initiatives that shape the technology environment; and serve as a forum to discuss technology issues.

As the University’s vision for Scholarship in Action moves the institution toward enhanced excellence, access and support, and engagement with the world, STAR students will be tasked with ensuring that the institution’s technology is likewise improved.

Student members have been recruited from a diverse pool of applicants by Student Affairs and ITS staff who serve on the STAR leadership team. Paula Maxwell, support analyst from Student Computing Services, and Clayton Parker, a third-year student in the School of Information Studies, have been appointed STAR co-chairs. Members will meet at least four times a semester beginning this spring. Subcommittees may be formed as appropriate to further explore initiatives or resolve issues. STAR will set and review goals once each semester; these goals will be compatible with ITS’ strategic planning and the University’s fiscal deadlines. STAR will also produce an annual report describing its activities, status of work toward goals, and goals for the future year.

“I am very excited to be engaged directly with students to address technology issues on campus,” says Maxwell. “This is a great two-way communication stream to gather input on current initiatives and understand desired future direction.”

“As technology has increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it has deepened its impact on student life issues,” says Seth Tucker, director of the Dean of Students Office in the Division of Student Affairs. “Syracuse University students very much appreciate the opportunity STAR affords them to proactively plan for this integration.”

For more information on STAR, contact Maxwell at pmaxwell@syr.edu.