Behind the Screens: IT@ND

Behind the Screens: IT@ND

By Andy JonatzkeTechnology
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Behind the Screens: IT@ND episodes

  • Building IT Partnerships: A Conversation with LeeSonn Smith
    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    49 min
  • Securing ND: Lauren Ajamie on 1Password and Trusted Access
    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    45 min
  • Teamwork and Tech Solutions at the Keough School of Global Affairs
    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    33 min
  • From Help Desk to Service Desk: Transforming IT Support at Notre Dame
    The "Behind the Screens IT at ND" podcast episode features a conversation with Chris Gillis, director of the service desk at the University of Notre Dame. The discussion explores the service desk's evolution from the traditional help desk, including its rebranding and expansion of services. The aim is to move beyond reactive help to a more proactive, ITIL service desk model. Key topics include combining teams, offering an "Apple store experience" for computer selection, enhancing technology partnerships, and improving computer security through health checks. The service desk plays a crucial role in resolving a high percentage of incidents without escalation and offering a loaner program. The discussion also highlights how the service desk is working to provide foundational skills for new IT professionals.

    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    39 min
  • Inside Mendoza IT: Supporting Faculty, Staff, and Grad Students
    "Behind the Screens IT at ND" is a podcast from the University of Notre Dame exploring the world of IT solutions consultants. The episode features Hank G., an IT consultant from the Mendoza College of Business, who discusses his team's structure, responsibilities, and the support they provide to faculty, staff, and graduate students. Hank highlights the importance of cross-training, leveraging campus partnerships, and the white-glove service they aim to provide. He shares an example of a project integrating Google Calendar, Sheets, and Qualtrics to enhance the business honors program and mentions using monday.com for work management. The podcast also touches upon the evolving IT landscape at Notre Dame and includes quick consultant questions and tech tips such as using ChatGpt.

    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    29 min
  • AI at Notre Dame: Live from the IT@ND Retreat
    This episode from "Behind the Screens: IT at ND features a discussion on the integration of AI at the University of Notre Dame. Alexi Orchard, Brandon Rich, and Steve Cohen share their experiences and perspectives on AI's current and future applications. The conversation highlights both the excitement and apprehension surrounding AI, exploring its potential benefits and ethical concerns. Specific use cases in HR, teaching, and IT are examined, along with the importance of responsible AI implementation and the need for AI literacy. The episode also touches upon the environmental impact of AI and its potential effects on the job market.

    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    46 min
  • From Game Day to Graduation: The Technology Powering Notre Dame's Biggest Events
    This podcast episode features an interview with Shawn Deweerd, a video engineer at Notre Dame, who discusses his work supporting live broadcasts of various university events, primarily athletic competitions. He details the complexities of his role, including managing a vast network of equipment and fiber connections and troubleshooting technical issues. The conversation also explores the increasing use of AI in broadcast technology and the challenges of adapting to ever-evolving IP video standards. Additionally, Deweerd highlights opportunities for student involvement and the potential for expanding services to other campus departments. Finally, he offers some helpful technical resources for aspiring video engineers.

    Shawn’s Time-Lapses: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1s_G8dNZslrbAS6UF1-Em6ODC-eoSMLCa?usp=sharing

    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    48 min
  • Building the Bench: IT Fellows, IT Skills Assessment, and Professional Development
    This podcast episode of "Behind the Screens: IT@ND" features interviews with two University of Notre Dame IT professionals, Elizabeth Zickgraf and Tracy Fronk. Elizabeth discusses her career progression, the university's IT fellows program designed to address workforce aging and attract new talent, and OIT's initiatives to foster employee engagement and professional development. Tracy shares her experience transitioning roles within the university, highlighting the importance of identifying and proposing solutions to unmet needs. The episode also includes tech tips on cybersecurity and avoiding online scams.

    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.


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    44 min
  • Athletics IT: Game Day, Mobile Tickets, and a run in with Coach Freeman
    Ever wondered what it takes to keep IT running smoothly across Notre Dame’s athletics programs? Join hosts Krista and Scooter as they dive into the dynamic world of Athletics IT with Tracy Fronk, IT Solutions Specialist. Tracy reveals the inner workings of supporting 26 varsity sports, from managing game-day tech and mobile ticketing to providing critical support for sports performance and sports medicine. With hundreds of applications and ever-evolving tech needs, Tracy shares insights on the challenges, key tools, and unique projects that keep the department moving. Plus, stick around for “Consultant Quirks” to learn a few fun facts about Tracy, and “Tech Tips & Tricks” to sharpen your own IT skills. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the intersection of sports and IT at Notre Dame!

    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    40 min
  • Wireless First, WebEx Calling, and Woody with Special Guest John Buysse
    Welcome to Behind the Screens: IT@ND, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of the IT solutions consultants at the University of Notre Dame. Hosted by Krista, Manager of IT Marketing & Communications in OIT, and Scooter, Director of Information Technology for the College of Arts & Letters, we explore the challenges faced by IT teams, the innovative solutions they create, and practical tech tips to help you make the most of your technology.
    In this episode, we talk with John Buysse, Senior Director of University Network & Telephony Services, about Notre Dame’s Wireless First initiative. We dive into the major campus-wide upgrades, explore the transition from wired to wireless connections, and learn about the improvements in IT support and troubleshooting. Plus, we touch on the future of desktop computers, specialized lab needs, and the evolving use of telephony at the university.
    We also bring you listener-submitted tech tips and tricks to enhance your daily tech experience. Whether you’re a student, staff member, or simply interested in the IT happenings at Notre Dame, Behind the Screens: IT@ND keeps you informed, inspired, and tech-savvy.
    Join us every episode as we uncover the stories, challenges, and quirky moments that come with providing IT solutions to one of the world’s leading universities. Stay tech-savvy, Notre Dame!


    About this podcast:
    Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: 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.
    49 min

About Behind the Screens: IT@ND

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Behind the Screens: IT@ND

Welcome to Behind the Screens: IT@ND, the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Krista…