This spring, Information Technology shared an update with the University Assembly focused on how IT is supporting 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 mission through reliability, security, and thoughtful innovation. While technology continues to evolve quickly, our approach remains steady: strengthen the foundation, protect institutional data, and adopt new tools responsibly鈥攁lways with faculty, staff, and students at the center.

Strengthening Core Systems and Campus Infrastructure

Over the past year, IT has made significant progress modernizing campus technology. Hundreds of network switches have been replaced across academic, residential, and administrative buildings, improving speed, reliability, and security. Core academic systems and teaching technologies continue to be enhanced, including improvements to Blackboard integrations and new grade export features planned for Fall 2026. Behind the scenes, legacy systems such as Banner are moving into secure archive mode to preserve historical data while reducing complexity.

A Campus鈥慦ide Commitment to Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity remains one of our highest priorities. The university is now approaching 90% cybersecurity compliance, supported by more reliable authentication, stronger network protections, and improved account management for new hires and departures. Later this year, faculty and staff will begin transitioning to phishing鈥憆esistant authentication methods鈥攕uch as passkeys or hardware security keys鈥攚hich will make logging in both easier and more secure. These changes are designed to reduce disruptions while better protecting research data and personal information.

Advancing AI鈥擳houghtfully and Responsibly

Artificial intelligence continues to generate interest and questions across campus. Rather than adopting AI everywhere at once, the university is taking a measured approach. An AI Council has been formed to advise university leadership on governance, policy, risk, and responsible use. By the end of the academic year, the council will deliver draft guiding principles and an acceptable use policy to ensure AI enhances our work while protecting privacy, equity, and academic integrity.

Looking Ahead

As we move through 2026, IT鈥檚 focus will remain on reliability, security, and impact. From modernizing infrastructure to supporting research computing and improving campus safety systems, these efforts are designed to improve the day鈥憈o鈥慸ay experience for faculty and staff while positioning the university for the future.

Thank you for your continued partnership as we build a more secure, connected, and innovative campus together.

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