WashU IT

In Episode 346 of the “Something Extra” Podcast, Lisa Nichols, CEO of Technology Partners, talks with Jessie Minton, Vice Chancellor for Technology and CIO at #WashU, about how her passion for equestrian competition shapes her leadership—emphasizing patience, resilience, and authentic communication. Together, they dive into WashU IT’s Strategic Plan, ImpacT, the IT needs of WashU's traditional liberal arts campus on Danforth, as well as the unique requirements for an innovative top-tier medical school. Hear as she discusses how IT is navigating the in-the-moment evolution inspired by AI, and the opportunities and challenges in the cybersecurity space. https://lnkd.in/gDTKSx9f #AI #cybersecurity #leadership

#WashU is making bold strides through its Network Modernization initiative, replacing outdated network equipment with state-of-the-art systems built for a modern, connected academic environment. This transformation is about more than technology—it’s about empowering the university community through cutting-edge research, hybrid learning, and a seamless digital experience. https://lnkd.in/g8MZW_Yd

Walk by Student Technology Services (STS) on the South 40 and you’ll spot sunflowers, marigolds, basil, bok choy, and lettuce thriving in a surprising place: a smart hydroponic garden tower right by the window. https://lnkd.in/g2u8QBRP Spearheaded by Mark Wilensky, a former STS student coordinator turned WashU IT Business Alignment Specialist, Project GreenThumb fuses technology and sustainability through smart gardens powered by automation, LED lighting, and app-based monitoring. The result? 40 pounds of fresh produce each month right in the middle of campus! The project is still in its early stages, and the team is actively working to increase participation and build awareness across campus. STS has partnered with the WashU Office of Sustainability to offer educational events and collaborate with various departments to spark interest and engagement across departments and the student community. Also, impromptu educational moments happen often when students walk in to ask about the garden tower thriving in the storefront. Looking ahead, there’s curiosity around what might be possible—could a network of garden towers someday support dining areas with ultra-local produce? While still a long-term vision, initiatives like this highlight the potential for reducing carbon emissions tied to food transportation by growing fresh produce right here on campus. From free basil at the front desk to visions of campus-grown salad bars, it’s proof that meaningful changes start small—and grow fast. #ITStartsWithYou #Sustainability #ImpacT

Members of the #WashUIT senior leadership team recently volunteered at the St. Louis Area Foodbank before taking part in a retreat at the site. In 2 hours, 20 members of the WashU IT senior leadership team prepared 3,600 postcards for mailing to households in the St. Louis area. They also packed 240 cases of noodles and 256 cases of dry goods, totaling 8,640 pounds of food. This food will be given to those in need to address food insecurity in Missouri and Illinois communities. This work will provide 7,200 meals for the hungry. That's enough food to feed one person for nearly 6 1/2 years.

Attention #WashU Community: Beware of Tax Scams! 🚨 Scammers are posing as the IRS to steal your personal and financial info. Remember: - The IRS contacts you by mail first—never through unexpected texts, emails, or social media. - They won’t demand payment via gift cards, threats, or urgent requests for personal details. Stay vigilant, and learn how to protect yourself and report scams with this article from our Information Security team: https://lnkd.in/gd-8yrSA #WashUIT #TaxSeason #IRSScams

Celebrating team wins boosts morale, strengthens connections, and keeps the momentum going. Whether it’s a team lunch, a public shoutout, or a fun outing, there are many ways to recognize success. What’s your favorite way to celebrate a big team win? Vote in our poll and use the comments to share your thoughts.

Alesya Bernatskaya MIM,PMP Bernatskaya, Program Director for the CyBear Secure Program, is a driving force behind #WashU’s cybersecurity transformation. Recognized as a #WashU IT Person of ImpacT, she's described by her peers as a leader who orchestrates complex projects with humility, fortitude, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. https://lnkd.in/gG66RvMP Alesya’s career has been shaped by a fearless philosophy: always choosing the challenge that scares her the most. From joining WashU as a programmer to moving into project management and ultimately leading major cybersecurity initiatives, Alesya's contributions to the university over nearly 19 years have been transformative, driving innovation, strengthening security, empowering teams, and inspiring those around her. Join us in celebrating Alesya’s dedication to WashU IT and the university community! 👏 #PersonOfImpacT #Leadership #Teamwork #CyberSecurity

Check out our new look!   While we have a new logo in line with the university's branding, we remain committed to being #WashU's trusted, strategic technology partner, enabling and supporting the university's mission by delivering secure, innovative, and information-rich solutions.

March is Employee Appreciation Month! We all like to feel valued at work, but the ways we feel most appreciated can vary. Whether it’s a public shoutout, a personal thank-you, or even opportunities to grow, appreciation comes in many forms. How do YOU like to be appreciated at work? Vote in our poll and let us know. #WashUIT #ITStartsWithYou

#TBT to last Friday when Melinda Schmidt, our Chief of Staff, hosted a team Town Hall for the Portfolio & Project Management Office, Organizational Change Management and Finance and Administration teams. We started the day with breakfast and networking, followed by inspiring remarks and personal stories from Melinda who challenged us with this powerful message: “Don’t let other people define who you are.” The day included updates on key #WashUIT initiatives, ongoing efforts to align with the university’s evolving brand, and a fun team-building challenge to "create something with a purpose." We wrapped up with a special lunch, celebrating connection and collaboration.