Most universities face the same question: how do we protect our data without turning our devices into Big Brother? Notre Dame’s new Device Care ND program offers a bold, holistic approach that balances security with user trust—revealing the secret sauce behind making campus devices safer, more efficient, and more user-friendly.
In this episode, Scooter sits down with Ryan Palmer and Kevin Strite to unpack how this three-year initiative is transforming endpoint management at Notre Dame. They reveal how innovative tools like Discovery, Hardware Asset Management, and advanced endpoint security are not just keeping campus data safe but also streamlining IT support and empowering end users. Discover how the program’s strategic branding helps communicate its benefits—focusing on stability, security, and a better user experience—rather than alarming “Big Brother” perceptions.
You’ll learn about the foundational projects shaping the future of campus IT: from real-time device monitoring and self-remediation tools to smarter asset management—plus the exciting shift from traditional systems like MECM and Jamf to more integrated, automated solutions with ServiceNow, Intune, and others. Kevin and Ryan break down how these changes will reduce support requests, speed incident resolution, and improve data accuracy—saving time and protecting privacy along the way.
Why does this matter? Ignoring endpoint security puts sensitive information at risk and leaves campus vulnerable to cyberattacks—risks that high-profile universities have already faced. But embracing these innovations unlocks a future where IT is proactive, efficient, and transparent, fostering trust and enabling faculty, staff, and students to focus on what truly matters. Whether you're in distributed IT, a tech leader, or simply curious about how your institution can stay safe without sacrificing user experience, this episode offers a clear roadmap for the future of campus cybersecurity. Perfect for IT professionals committed to impactful change, it’s your inside look at Notre Dame’s transformative journey—and how the right strategy can make your campus smarter, safer, and more secure.
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.