When Kaylee Vida joined the Perkins School of Theology as the Associate Director of Lifelong Learning back in June, she was greeted with spreadsheets—plenty of spreadsheets—that tracked nearly every detail of the Perkins Certificate in Spiritual Direction. While the system worked, Kaylee knew there had to be a more efficient way to manage data and streamline processes. She reached out to the IT Help Desk looking for a solution that could help track the certificate program, manage event logistics, and record payments more efficiently. Continue reading SMU360 Helps Streamline Spiritual Direction Certification Program
Microsoft Authenticator Default MFA Spring 2026
As we wrap up the term, we would like to remind the SMU community that starting next spring, Microsoft Authenticator, with its improved feature set, will be the primary Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solution for the University. For most users, this will enable the removal of the Duo Security app—except in a few situations, such as when using High-Performance Computing, where Duo Security will still be required. Continue reading Microsoft Authenticator Default MFA Spring 2026
Hours for the IT Help Desk during the 2025 Winter Break
The IT Help Desk will have reduced hours for the upcoming winter break. The IT Help Desk will be closed for regular business operations from Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through Monday, January 1, 2026, with operations returning to normal on Friday, January 2, 2026. Continue reading Hours for the IT Help Desk during the 2025 Winter Break
Web Bytes: Updates from the Web Application Team
2025: A Year Worth Celebrating
SMU’s website (smu.edu) had a standout year, delivering major improvements to both the user experience and backend performance. The Web Applications Team helped drive key achievements in 2025—including completing one of the final Cornerstone migrations, earning a Letter of Conformance for meeting Web Content Accessibility Guidelines Level AA criteria, and launching new Sitecore features that enhance how users engage with our site.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to be Continue reading Web Bytes: Updates from the Web Application Team
Canvas Plus: December 2025 Edition
In our Canvas Plus Monthly, we discuss the new features and enhancements available in the Canvas LMS and any updates to academic technology/software that are integrated into Canvas. This month’s update includes information about upcoming workshops, along with updated integrations for PlayPosit and Macmillan, and new tools and features for Copyleaks and Cidi Labs.
