FY26 Technology Report
FY26 Technology Report
Information Technology Services serves as a partner and leader for technology needs and initiatives to enhance learning, teaching, research, and operations for Loyola University Chicago, higher education, and technology communities.
Message From The CIO
Read a message from Loyola University Chicago's Chief Information Officer, Dr. LeRoy Butler.
Read a message from Loyola University Chicago's Chief Information Officer, Dr. LeRoy Butler.
Strategic Technology Framework
The Strategic Technology Framework outlines our core priorities for advancing the University's mission through intentional, sustainable use of technology. Organized around foundational pillars, the framework focuses on enhancing the student experience, enabling data-informed decision-making, expanding research support, and modernizing the University's IT enterprise architecture. Together, with general technology initiatives, these goals guide investments and initiatives that strengthen academic excellence, operational effectiveness, and long-term institutional impact.
I. Enhance the Student Experience
Utilizing technology resources to help students achieve defined educational goals and prepares them for success in modern professional environments
II. Support Data Informed Decision-Making
Refining data management practices to ensure accuracy, accessibility, security, and compliance, thereby empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions.
III. Expand Research Support
Modernizing research infrastructure through enhancements, such as high-performance computing capabilities and advanced tools for collaborative and data-intensive studies
IV. Modernize IT Enterprise Architecture
Modernizing the four enterprise IT architecture domains (technology, applications, data, and business processes), which creates a more efficient and effective institution.
V. General Strategic Initiatives
General strategic technology initiatives extend beyond defined focus areas but remain vital for aligning technology with student needs, promoting academic innovation, and improving operations.
Strategic Framework Highlights & Impact
This video features several members of our community highlighting the need and anticipated impacts of several of the the strategic initiative projects that are actively underway and presented as part of the 2025 Annual Information & Technology Showcase event.
Strategic Initiatives
Building on the progress of the past year, we continue to advance strategic initiatives that enhance our technological capabilities, improve the user experience, and align IT investments with the university’s priorities. In this second year of focus, these efforts deepen our commitment to innovation, strengthen support for academic and administrative functions, and further position the university as a leader in effective technology integration across higher education.
Classroom Technology Refresh
The university will be modernizing classrooms over the next few years across all three campuses. Classroom Technology Services is partnering with Facilities on this multi-year refresh to enhance both technology and the overall learning environment. Updates will include new instructional technology such as cameras, microphones, and workstations, along with refreshed finishes like carpeting and paint. Several spaces will also receive new furniture. Work will begin in summer 2026.
High Performance Computing Upgrades
The project will enhance Loyola's computing infrastructure, enabling researchers to analyze larger datasets and better support multidisciplinary research.
Enterprise Portal Implementation
We're building a one-stop-shop portal for students, faculty, and staff to access everything we need, all in one online and mobile application. Our key systems will never again be out of reach because the Enterprise Portal Project will bring those systems to our fingertips!
ERP Transformation Program
We are developing a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that consolidates Loyola’s student information, human resources, enrollment management, finance, research, and advancement platforms into a single, integrated technology environment.
Telephone System Transition
Loyola will significantly improve its communications setup by switching from its old phone system to a contemporary, cloud-powered phone solution based on the Microsoft Teams platform.
Campus Network Improvements
This initiative aims to enhance network performance by increasing overall capacity, broadening access, optimizing the efficiency of data center operations, and improving wireless coverage.
Annual Information & Technology Showcase
Our 2025 annual Information & Technology Showcase, an event co-hosted by ITS and University Libraries, featured a day full of breakout sessions and vendors sharing all about technology and information resources available to University members. We broke our own records with over 300 attendees, 26 technology partners, as well as important keynotes with an introduction from Provost Doug Woods, and closing remarks and presentation on the Strategic Technology Framework from Dr. LeRoy Butler. Learn more.
Organizational Structure Updates
Our organizational structure updates continue as we move toward a service-based ITS model designed to better support our University community. This evolution strengthens how we deliver services today while positioning us for greater impact and flexibility in the future. Learn more.
ITS Special Updates
Accessibility-Oriented Professional Development
ITS partnered with the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on a committee to strengthen accessibility as part of faculty professional development. The committee designed a 90–120 minute, data-informed accessibility session incorporating technological best practices, with a spring launch planned to support a more just and inclusive campus.
ITS Volunteer Efforts
ITS remains committed to Loyola University's Jesuit mission of serving and uplifting our community through volunteer work, like supporting families at Ronald McDonald House and packing lunches at Uncle Pete's Ministry.
2025 EPEAT Awards Winner
Again for 2025, Loyola University Chicago has been recognized again with an EPEAT Purchaser Award winner, awarded by the Global Electronics Council. This award celebrates leadership in sustainable electronics procurement, made possible with ITS collaborations with School of Environmental Sustainability and Facilities.