As part of our ongoing series, we’d like to introduce you to the team that keeps smu.edu running smoothly, along with all of the other web applications we use on a daily basis. Learn more about our colleagues who make up the Web Application Services team!
Shagul Khajamohideen, Director
Shagul recently joined us as the new director for Web Application Services, bringing more than 20 years of experience in driving digital transformation, cloud modernization, and enterprise software innovation across diverse industries, including retail, healthcare, telecom, real estate, and media. With a strategic mindset and a passion for solving complex business challenges, Shagul bridges the gap between vision and execution, delivering scalable, customer-centric solutions that generate measurable impact. He’s passionate about turning big ideas into practical solutions that improve customer experiences and deliver measurable impact. Outside of work, Shagul enjoys cheering on his kids’ robotics and taekwondo pursuits, and loves exploring Texas and Oklahoma state parks through hiking and biking.
Beth Andresen, Associate Director
As a digital marketing professional, she specializes in web development, content management systems, and digital accessibility, providing both strategic leadership and hands-on expertise in custom website component development, website migrations, and web accessibility compliance. She collaborates across teams to deliver accessible, user-focused digital solutions that enhance the university’s online presence.
Akanksha Bhansali, Application Analyst
Akanksha joined SMU in September 2020 after earning her master’s degree in Information Technology in 2019. She brings valuable experience from the consulting industry and began her career as a Developer at Infosys. “After spending years in the corporate world, working at SMU has been a surreal and rewarding journey. I truly enjoy being part of something that helps shape the future.” Akanksha and her husband, married since 2018, have a daughter. Together, they enjoy outdoor activities and experimenting with new cuisines at home.
Chris Gilbert, Application Developer
Chris Gilbert joined SMU in 2010, bringing with him valuable experience as a web developer from TTI. He currently serves as a Senior Applications Developer, tasked with extending Sitecore as well as building full-stack, greenfield applications. He and his wife have been happily married for 15 years and are proud parents to a 13-year-old daughter who is passionate about cheerleading and soccer. Outside of work, Chris enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends. He’s also an avid builder, always working on creative projects or crafting his latest design.
Michael Keller, Web Specialist
Michael joined SMU in September 2021 and brings more than twenty years of IT experience in higher education, having previously worked at Dallas College and The Art Institute of Dallas. A U.S. Navy veteran, he served both at sea and ashore, receiving training as a shipboard firefighter and in aviation maintenance. Beyond IT, Michael’s professional background includes computer programming, phone app development, and photography. During his time at The Art Institute of Dallas, he photographed more than 60 quarterly fashion shows hosted at the Richardson Civic Center. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, leatherworking, speed skating, dancing corridos, and volunteering at SMU.
Michael Law, Application Designer
Michael Law is a Full Stack Developer with deep roots at SMU, having joined the community way back in 2008. Currently a Senior Application Developer in the OIT, he’s the wizard working behind the scenes, specializing in Sitecore CMS and robust backend development to make sure the university’s most important applications are stable and reliable. That extensive SMU knowledge comes from seven years spent honing his skills at the SMU Law School, which followed his start at CompUSA. Away from work, Michael loves to read and nerd out on advanced topics like Machine Learning and trying to trip up those chatty LLMs (Large Language Models) to find their blind spots. On the weekends, he and his wife actively participate in church activities.
Gary Torborg, Application Support
Gary Torborg began working at SMU in 2006 as a Desktop Database Manager. Initially, his work focused primarily on managing FileMaker Pro and Microsoft Access databases, some of which continue to be used. His role involved overseeing the phase-out of FileMaker Pro, though this phase-out was later reversed with the setup of the first FileMaker Server. In 2013, his responsibilities shifted with an increasing focus on SharePoint support, followed by a transition to the Web Team, where he worked with WordPress and later Sitecore. Over time, his role has evolved into serving as the primary front end for Web Support, responding to Help Desk tickets, a position he still holds. His support also includes current technologies such as calendar.smu.edu and LibWizard. He has been married since 1983 and is a father of four grown children and thirteen grandchildren, one of whom is also grown. His relocation from Minnesota to Texas in 2006 was partly influenced by the birth of his first grandchild.
Katie Nickles, Web Design Manager
Katie began her SMU career at Dedman College in 2012 and transitioned to OIT in 2023. She supports campus-wide digital marketing through web and email strategy, implementation, and consultation. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and traveling.
