Cornell University Information Technology leaders used the university's first All-IT Town Hall to outline the next phase of the Evolve IT initiative and introduce the newly established organization. The effort builds on Cornell's federated IT model by strengthening collaboration, community, and shared capabilities while preserving the local expertise and relationships that colleges, schools, units, and campuses rely on every day.

During the event, Chief Information Officer Ben Maddox and Deputy Chief Information Officer Sarah Christen shared a roadmap for implementation, including the formation of cross-functional teams focused on areas such as client services, classroom technology, research computing, software procurement, and workforce readiness. Debra Howell, Director of Information Technology for the University Libraries, used a Berlin Wall analogy to emphasize that the goal is not centralization for its own sake, but creating opportunities for teams to work together more effectively, share knowledge, and deliver sustainable technology services across the university.

Speakers also highlighted the strength of Cornell's IT community, which includes more than 850 professionals with decades of collective institutional knowledge. Looking ahead, the initiative will focus not only on technology and governance, but also on cultivating a culture of connection, adaptability, and continuous learning. 

Read the full story for details on the new organization, implementation timeline, governance structure, and workforce readiness plans.