OIT’s own Karie Conklin was recently recognized by the CIO Student Advisory Board for her efforts in being an integral advisor and confidant to the board.
The CIO Student Advisory Board, established in 2017 under the guidance of Dr. Michael Hites, meets monthly during the semesters to discuss and strategize on the integration and enhancement of technology on campus. Comprising twelve student representatives from each class, the board serves as a critical link between the student body and the IT organization.
With over 25 years of experience at SMU, Karie’s involvement with the CIO Student Advisory Board is not limited to just attending the regular sessions. She actively participates in planning meetings with key members, including the Chair and Dr. Hites, demonstrating her commitment to understanding and addressing the students’ needs. Her inclusion in the board’s GroupMe is a testament to her approachability and her dedication to maintaining open lines of communication with the students.
Dr. Michael Hites, reflecting on the significance of the CIO Student Advisory Board, shared, “Over the past seven years, the CIO SAB has informed decision-making and supported classroom technology, the student online experience, cybersecurity, calendaring, computer labs, printing, technology response to COVID, software for students, residence hall card readers, updates to my.SMU, the OIT Strategic Plan, several student IT surveys, and most recently, student use of Generative AI. The CIO Student Advisory Board has been chaired by the SMU Student Body President since it was formed, which is a wonderful honor for OIT.”
The entire Student Advisory Board, represented by members Alex Alarcon, the 110th Student Body President, Michael Castle, the 111th President, and Jude Lugo, Senate Membership Chair presented Karie with beautiful flowers alongside a heartfelt card and some chocolates. Please join us in congratulating Karie on this well-deserved recognition, and let us take a moment to appreciate the relentless dedication of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to enhance the educational journey at SMU.
