ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT · 2025–2026
University Technology Services Technology with purpose. People at the center.
FEATURES ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES Modernizing systems and services that support learning, access, and success.
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
Equipping researchers and partners with tools to drive innovation and discovery.
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DATA-INFORMED DECISIONS Strengthening infrastructure and data capabilities to support collaboration and impact.
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Advancing security, service, and the culture that makes it all possible. VILLANOVA.EDU/TECHNOLOGYSERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES · ANNUAL REPORT 2025–2026
What’s Inside ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DECISIONS
From the Desk of the CIO
LETTER ›
Launching the AI Hub
By the Numbers
DATA ›
Collaboration in Action
Charting the Next Chapter of IT
FEATURE ›
TechNova 2026
FEATURE ›
Opening New Doors: Opening Cabrini
FEATURE ›
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE ›
RESEARCH ›
Modern Voice for Modern Campus
Security Awareness Program
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE ›
Expanding Our Services
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE ›
The Impact, In Their Words
Modernizing Student Onboarding
STUDENT EXP. ›
Introducing Apporto
STUDENT EXP. ›
The People Behind the Progress
STUDENT EXP. ›
Building on Momentum
From Blackboard to Brightspace
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
DIGITAL PROCESSES ›
COMMUNITY ›
THE TEAM ›
LOOKING AHEAD ›
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
FROM THE CIO · CONTENTS
FROM THE DESK OF THE CIO
A Year of Meaningful Transformation At Villanova, progress is guided by purpose. This year marked an important chapter in how University Technology Services advances the University's mission through technology, not as an end in itself, but as a catalyst for connection, learning, discovery and service. Technology is transforming every aspect of higher education. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence, the accelerating pace of digital innovation and an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape create both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for our community. Over the past year, we embraced our new identity as University Technology Services, grounded in a renewed vision, shared values and a commitment to stewardship. More than a name change, this evolution reflects how we serve as trusted partners, listeners and collaborators across campus. Guided by our RESTLESS values, we continue to align our work with Villanova's Augustinian foundations of Veritas, Unitas and Caritas. Central to this transformation is TechNova 2026, Villanova's strategic roadmap for technology. Developed through broad campus engagement, the plan focuses on enhancing student experiences, strengthening support for research and scholarship, enabling digital processes and data-informed decisions, and advancing operational excellence. The stories in this report highlight our early progress, from modernizing learning platforms and launching the AI Hub to investing in secure, resilient and responsive services.
OUR VISION
Embracing Villanova’s mission, University Technology Services empowers the community to leverage technology for success, innovation, and growth through trusted partnerships, intuitive services, and forward-thinking solutions. RESTLESS VALUES
Resilient Empowered Strategic Transparent Listening Excellence Service-Oriented Stewardship AUGUSTINIAN FOUNDATIONS
Veritas · Truth Unitas · Unity Caritas · Love
I am deeply grateful to our colleagues across Villanova for their partnership, trust and collaboration. I would like to thank Student Government Association for their partnership as well. TechNova 2026 is a shared journey, and our progress is possible because of your ideas, engagement and commitment to serving our students, faculty and staff. Technology Services also looks forward to bringing the community together at Tech Expo on October 21 to continue exploring how technology can advance Villanova's mission. To the Technology Services team, thank you for your dedication and expertise. Together, we will continue leveraging technology to strengthen our community, advance Villanova's mission and shape the future. Thank you for your partnership and shared commitment to Villanova's success. Best,
Tej Patel Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Technology with purpose. People at the center.
Tagaste Hall - Cabrini Campus
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
BY THE NUMBERS · CONTENTS
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
2025–2026 By the Numbers ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES
464,058
20,900 24,573
COURSES MIGRATED from Blackboard
TRAINING SESSIONS held for faculty
27
17,000+ 20,900
31,808
BRIGHTSPACE LOGINS First year on the platform
ACADEMIC APPLICATIONS in Apporto
UNIQUE CONNECTIONS since Apporto launched
275
96
KNOWLEDGE BASE ARTICLES CREATED for Brightspace support
REGISTRATIONS for the Fall 2027 semester
Replaced Legacy CITRIX
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
Dec ’25
AI HUB LAUNCH President & Provost supported
1,345
AI HUB PAGE VIEWS 907 total users
517
AI TOOL ACCOUNTS 293 ChatGPT · 224 Copilot
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DATA-INFORMED DECISIONS
3,400
EXTENSIONS MIGRATED to Zoom Phone
5
MONTHS ahead of schedule
$1.5M
75%
PROJECTED 5-YEAR SAVINGS Zoom Phone transition
REDUCTION IN DESK PHONES from 2,700 to 700
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
32,000+
TICKETS RESOLVED Service Desk, AY 2025–26
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SCORE Customer Satisfaction Survey, AY 2025–26
70%
FIRST LEVEL RESOLUTION RATE Issues resolved at the first level of support
123
78%
3,000+
300
70+
REDUCTION IN SECURITY TRAINING TIME from 45 min to 10 min
93%
NOVACHAT CONVERSATIONS since launch
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
COMMUNITY MEMBERS participated in TechNova planning
TEAM MEMBERS across 7 groups
PROJECTS COMPLETED
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
FEATURE · CONTENTS
OUR NEW IDENTITY
Charting the Next Chapter of IT at Villanova A NEW IDENTITY, ROOTED IN MISSION, READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT
For nearly three decades, the information technology division at Villanova
served as University Information Technologies, or UNIT. This past year, a new
chapter began. Effective June 11, 2025, the division was renamed as University Technology Services, a name chosen to reflect both who we are and who we aspire to be.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
— Staff working groups and listening sessions — Faculty and student focus groups
— Campus leadership input throughout — Alignment to Villanova’s “Rooted.
The renaming was the result of a deliberate, community-informed process that began with a fundamental question: how should technology serve
Restless.” framework
— Launched via town halls and
campus-wide communications
Villanova? Through working groups, focus groups, and listening sessions
engaging Technology Services staff, faculty, students, and campus leaders, a new vision emerged: embracing Villanova's mission, University Technology
Services empowers the community to leverage technology for success, innovation, and growth through trusted partnerships, intuitive services, and forward-thinking solutions.
Alongside the new name came a set of core values captured in the acronym RESTLESS, a meaningful nod to Villanova's own "Rooted. Restless." strategic framework. The RESTLESS values (Resilient, Empowered, Strategic, Transparent,
Listening, Excellence, Service-Oriented, and Stewardship) defines how Technology Services shows up every day in
service of the Villanova community. Rooted in the Augustinian principles of Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas, these values reflect both a professional commitment and a deeply human one: to serve with honesty, unity, and love.
The new brand was introduced through town halls, departmental engagements, and digital communications across campus. The message was clear: Villanova deserves a technology partner that leads with purpose, and University Technology Services is that partner.
Villanova deserves a technology partner that leads with purpose — and University Technology Services is that partner.
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
FEATURE · CONTENTS
STRATEGIC TECHNOLOGY PLAN
TechNova 2026: Building the Roadmap to What’s Next VILLANOVA’S LATEST COMPREHENSIVE IT STRATEGIC PLAN
PLANNING PROCESS
Great universities don’t simply respond to technological change — they shape it in service of their mission. That is the spirit behind
TechNova 2026, Villanova’s latest comprehensive strategic plan for campus technology.
— 6 months of structured engagement — ~300 total community participants — 6 strategic working groups — Multiple dedicated focus groups — External facilitation for objectivity
The development of TechNova 2026 was intentionally
participatory. Over a six-month planning process, Technology
Services engaged nearly 300 community participants across six
FOUR STRATEGIC PILLARS
working groups and multiple focus groups — approximately 60 staff, 50 faculty, 45 students, and 125 IT professionals. External
facilitators guided the process to ensure objectivity and breadth of perspective.
The culmination of that work is a plan that belongs not just to
ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DECISIONS
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Technology Services, but to the entire Villanova community. This
past year represented our first full year of bringing TechNova 2026 to life — translating vision into action.
Each initiative was selected not only for its technical merit, but for its potential to advance student success, strengthen research capacity, and reflect the values that make Villanova a place apart.
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
Learn More: villanova.edu/TechNova
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
FEATURE · CONTENTS
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
CABRINI CAMPUS OPENING
Opening New Doors: Technology Powers the Cabrini Campus Experience BUILDING A CONNECTED, FUTURE-READY CAMPUS ROOTED IN MISSION AND DESIGNED FOR SEAMLESS LEARNING In August 2026, Villanova University opened the Cabrini Campus, a 112-acre expansion two miles from the main campus that extends Villanova’s Augustinian mission and supports learning, community, and lifelong success.
From the earliest planning stages, University Technology Services helped transform
Cabrini into a modern, digitally enabled academic community, equipping classrooms,
labs, residence halls, and student spaces with technology to support teaching, research, and campus life.
Technology Services worked with campus partners, such as the Facilities Management Office, to align building turnover, facilities, operations, and academic timelines so
classrooms, learning spaces, and essential services were ready when faculty, staff, and students arrived.
Core technology, including wireless connectivity, collaboration tools, and academic
systems, helps students and faculty move seamlessly between the main campus and Cabrini. The TechZone in Tagaste Hall provides in-person support and reinforces Technology Services’ commitment to accessible service.
30
CLASSROOMS RENOVATED across the Cabrini Campus
900
STUDENTS living at Cabrini
3+
MILES of network cabling to Cabrini
915+
NEW ACCESS DEVICES installed at Cabrini
The Cabrini Campus advances an integrated student experience, with technology
supporting dining, recreation, transportation, advanced audiovisual classrooms, and student spaces designed for engagement, access, and belonging.
From early staff access and phased building activation to
move-in and full operations, Technology Services ensured technology enabled connection and productivity at every stage.
Beyond infrastructure, Technology Services helped create a campus where digital tools enhance personal attention,
collaboration, and community, making Cabrini a true part of Villanova.
The opening of the Cabrini Campus is more than growth. It is
a mission-driven investment in Villanova’s future, powered by innovation, partnership, and service to support the next generation of Villanovans.
Learn More: villanova.edu/CabriniCampus Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES · CONTENTS
ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES
Modernizing the Student Digital Experience BANNER SELF-SERVICE V9 & APPORTO VIRTUAL DESKTOP
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Banner Self-Service: v8 to v9 For students, navigating the administrative side of university life begins with NOVASIS, or Banner
Self-Service, the portal where they access course schedules, financial aid information, grades, and account details. This year, Technology Services
completed the majority of the upgrade from Banner Self-Service version 8 to version 9, delivering a
significantly improved experience for the entire Villanova community through more intuitive, accessible digital services.
The new version offers a modernized, mobile-friendly
interface that simplifies navigation and makes critical information more accessible than ever.
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Introducing Apporto: Academic Software without Barriers What if every student could access Villanova's full suite of academic software from any device, anywhere,
without installing a single application? This year, that became a reality with the launch of Apporto, Villanova's new virtual desktop service.
Apporto offers a browser-based experience that
supports coursework and teaching from any device, with no software installation required. The platform replaced Villanova's legacy Citrix environment,
delivering a more flexible and accessible experience for students and faculty alike. For students who may not own high-powered hardware or access to specialized software, Apporto is a meaningful
WHAT’S NEW IN V9
— Mobile-friendly, responsive interface — Simplified navigation for key student tasks — Foundation for future workflow enhancements — Collaborated across 4 administrative offices
The upgrade also lays important groundwork for
future enhancements to student and staff workflows,
equalizer, ensuring that every Villanova student has the tools they need to succeed, wherever they are.
27
1,700+
ACADEMIC APPS AVAILABLE
UNIQUE CONNECTIONS since Apporto launched
2 versions: General and Engineering
supporting continued modernization of core
administrative systems and making everyday tasks easier to complete. The transition required close collaboration across the Registrar, Financial Aid,
Bursar, and Technology Services teams. For students,
A meaningful equalizer — ensuring every Villanova student has the tools they need to succeed, wherever they are.
the result is a smoother, more intuitive experience at one of the very first touchpoints of their Villanova journey.
"The new NOVASIS is much more intuitive and makes for easy grade and time sheet navigation." Antonio Fiorentino Wong ’26 COE Villanova Student
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES · CONTENTS
ENABLE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES
From Blackboard to Brightspace MODERNIZING VILLANOVA’S LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
After years of using Blackboard as Villanova's learning management system, Technology Services, in close
partnership with the Office of the Provost, launched a phased transition to Brightspace by D2L, a modern
464,058
BRIGHTSPACE LOGINS in the first year on the platform
platform built to support the evolving needs of faculty and students.
Brightspace offers a cleaner, more intuitive interface,
stronger analytics to help faculty understand student
24,573
COURSES MIGRATED from Blackboard
3,644
ACTIVE COURSE in Brightspace
engagement, and robust accessibility features that benefit all learners.
A comprehensive change management program,
including training workshops, support resources, and a
275
TRAINING SESSIONS held for faculty
96
SUPPORT DOCUMENTS created in TeamDynamix
soft launch with pilot users and College of Professional Studies non-credit courses, was implemented ahead of the full Summer 2026 rollout. During this transition Technology Services migrated over 24,000 courses and provided 275 training sessions in coordination
with the Villanova Institute for Teaching and Learning (VITAL).
As a focus of the Rooted. Restless. strategic plan, the move to Brightspace reflects Villanova's deep
commitment to academic excellence, ensuring the
digital tools supporting teaching and learning are as strong as the people who use them every day.
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
WHAT’S NEW IN BRIGHTSPACE — Cleaner, more intuitive interface — Advanced analytics on student engagement — Robust accessibility features for all learners — Mobile-optimized design — Integrated with Villanova’s existing systems
“For faculty new to Brightspace, I recommend actively exploring the platform. While the interface may differ from previous systems, its intuitive design allows for straightforward navigation and discovery.” Rich Rinaldi, MBA Villanova Adjunct Faculty
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP · CONTENTS
EXPAND SUPPORT FOR RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
Accelerating Research, Creativity, and Discovery AI HUB LAUNCH & INDEPENDENCE BLUE CROSS GRANT PARTNERSHIP
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP
Launching the AI Hub: Resources to Explore, Learn, and Innovate with AI
Collaboration in Action: Technology Supporting Health and Learning
Artificial intelligence is reshaping research,
Some of the most powerful technology solutions are
In December 2025, Technology Services, with support
disciplines and institutions. This year, Technology
scholarship, and creative work across every discipline. from the Office of the President and Office of the
Provost, launched the AI Hub, a centralized resource
designed to help Villanova faculty, staff, and students explore, learn, and innovate with AI tools.
The AI Hub offers curated resources, collaboration
opportunities, and expert support for incorporating AI into daily work, research, and scholarly activities.
born not in isolation, but at the intersection of
Services partnered in a cross-disciplinary initiative supported by an Independence Blue Cross grant,
working alongside the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the College of Professional Studies, Dining
Services, and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) to advance technology-enabled health and learning.
Whether a faculty member is exploring AI-assisted
The partnership brought together expertise from
responsible AI use, the AI Hub provides a starting
explore how technology can support student
data analysis or a student is developing skills in point and a growing community of practice.
Rooted in the Augustinian value of Veritas, the AI Hub is built on the principle that AI at Villanova must be
adopted thoughtfully, ethically, and in ways that serve the pursuit of truth and human flourishing. As the AI landscape continues to evolve rapidly, Technology Services is committed to helping the Villanova
community navigate it with confidence and integrity.
health care, education, and campus operations to learning, healthy eating outcomes, and service
delivery. Technology Services provided the technical
infrastructure and expertise to bring the project to life, while faculty and clinical partners shaped the educational content and outcomes.
Technology placed in the service of people — not the other way around. This collaboration reflects the Augustinian value of
1,345
HUB PAGE VIEWS 907 total users
517
AI ACCOUNTS ASSIGNED 293 ChatGPT · 224 Copilot
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
Unitas: building bridges across disciplines,
institutions, and communities in pursuit of a greater good. It also demonstrates what becomes possible when technology is placed in the service of people, not the other way around.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DATA-INFORMED DECISIONS · CONTENTS
FACILITATE DIGITAL PROCESSES & DATA-INFORMED DECISIONS
Modern Voice for a Modern Campus TRANSITIONING TO ZOOM PHONE
For decades, campus phone systems have been
anchored to physical infrastructure: desk phones, copper wires, and on-premises hardware requiring significant investment to maintain. Last summer, Villanova took a
$1.5M
PROJECTED 5-YEAR SAVINGS vs. legacy infrastructure costs
major step in modernizing its infrastructure by
transitioning to Zoom Phone, a cloud-based voice
platform that integrates seamlessly with the Zoom
environment many on campus already know and use.
5
3,400
MONTHS ahead of schedule
EXTENSIONS MIGRATED to Zoom Phone
By the close of fall 2025, Technology Services had
migrated over 3,000 phone lines in dozens of buildings
throughout campus, including Cabrini. The transition was
Replacing fragmented legacy systems with
generate $1.5 million in savings over five years, while
Villanova to operate with greater agility and
completed ahead of schedule and is projected to
eliminating the cost and complexity of maintaining aging legacy hardware.
NEW CAPABILITIES WITH ZOOM PHONE — Calls from computer, mobile, or desk phone — Voicemail transcription — Intelligent call routing — Integration with calendaring and messaging — Seamless hybrid work experience — Zoom Online Fax
integrated, user-centered solutions that enable effectiveness.
"I thought I would need a desk phone, but with the portability of Zoom phone, I gave it back after a month. I regularly take calls after hours and Zoom allows me to do this without giving out my personal cell phone number." Tom DeMarco, JD Dean of Students, Student Life Zoom Champion Partner
Beyond the financial benefits, Zoom Phone brings
meaningful improvements to how faculty and staff
communicate. Users can now make and receive calls
from their computers, mobile devices, or traditional desk
phones, offering the flexibility that modern work requires. Enhanced features such as voicemail transcription,
intelligent call routing, and integration with calendaring and messaging tools make everyday communication more efficient and connected.
The Zoom Phone transition exemplifies TechNova 2026's
goal to facilitate digital processes: replacing fragmented, legacy systems with integrated, user-centered solutions that enable Villanova to operate with greater agility and effectiveness. It also reflects Technology Services'
stewardship of university resources, finding smarter,
more sustainable solutions that deliver both value and service.
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE · CONTENTS
PURSUE IT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Meeting the Moment: Expanding Services for a Growing Community Security Awareness Training Redesign & NOVAchat Launch
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Security Awareness Program Launches Improved Training
NOVAchat, Service Desk Growth, and New Offerings
In January 2026, Technology Services launched a
As Villanova's community grows and technology
faculty and staff, reinforcing a culture where
the demand for timely, expert support has never been
an everyday practice. Guided by user feedback and
its service portfolio in meaningful ways.
generic, outsourced content toward a
The launch of NOVAchat, an AI-powered service bot,
our institutional values and community.
and staff, offering a fast, accessible channel to
The previous training required approximately 45
Technology Services also launched a new status page,
redesigned version covers essential security habits,
consistent way to stay informed about service
redesigned required security awareness training for
becomes more central to every aspect of campus life,
information security is a shared responsibility and
greater. Technology Services responded by expanding
TechNova 2026, the redesign shifted away from
Villanova-grown learning experience grounded in
brought real-time chat support to students, faculty, connect with the service desk around the clock.
minutes to complete across fifteen modules. The
giving the campus community a clearer, more
including strong passwords, multi-factor
performance, maintenance windows, and outages.
protecting sensitive data, in just 10 minutes, while
These expansions reflect Technology Services' values
authentication, recognizing social engineering, and improving comprehension and usability.
of listening and service orientation: hearing what the
The effort was made possible through collaboration
user-centered solutions that make everyday life at
across Information Security, Multimedia
Technologies, Learning Technologies, Human
Resources, the Office of the Provost, University
Communication and Marketing, and the University Ethics and Compliance Office. Through thoughtful design and strong cross-campus partnerships, Technology Services continues to advance a culture of Securitas, embedding information
security into daily work in support of resilience,
accountability, and long-term institutional success.
78%
REDUCTION IN TIME from 45 min to 10 min
3,360+
USERS TRAINED
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
community needs and responding with practical, Villanova simpler and more connected. NEW SERVICES LAUNCHED THIS YEAR
— NOVAchat: AI-powered 24/7 service bot — Status Page: Real-time service transparency — Coming Soon: Cabrini TechZone
3,000+
32,000+
NOVACHAT CONVERSATIONS since launch
TOTAL TICKETS RESOLVED AY 2025–26
70%
12,500+
FIRST-LEVEL RESOLUTION at the first level of support
PHONE CALLS HANDLED
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
COMMUNITY VOICES · CONTENTS
FROM THE VILLANOVA COMMUNITY
The Impact, In Their Words Technology is only as meaningful as the difference it makes for real people. Here is what students, faculty, and staff
70+ PROJECTS COMPLETED
across Villanova said about their experience with University Technology Services this year.
"Over my 42 years of Villanova tenure, UTS has always done an excellent job, thank you."
"Brightspace is the most organized student platform I've ever had."
Villanova Faculty
Adam Balasko ’27 COE Villanova Student
“I have found the transition from Blackboard to Brightspace to be very smooth. The platforms offer similar tools, and students transitioned from one to the other with ease.”
"The UTS team was a true partner to us on this [Zoom Phone] project. We were able to work together on the right timeline and messaging to help our department make a smooth transition, and UTS was really responsive and helpful in answering our (many) questions before, during, and after our cutover."
Madeline DeWoody, MS Villanova Faculty
Jennifer Derry, SHRM-SCP AVP of Human Resources
"I am genuinely and authentically grateful to have Technology crews at the ready to help fellow staff, faculty, students, etc. Every interaction I have had thus far during my tenure to date has been nothing short of near perfection. Every interaction carries components such as professionalism, integrity, high level of customer (fellow colleague care), a streamlined approach which is fluid and synchronized to the highest of degrees. As I have said before and as I will say again. Thank you." Villanova Staff Member
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
OUR TEAM · CONTENTS
OUR TEAM
The People Behind the Progress
TEAM MEMBERS
NEW HIRES
MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES
123
12 joined
17 celebrated
Every initiative in this report reflects the people who make it
possible. The Technology Services team brings our RESTLESS
values to life each day, serving the community with expertise, care, and a commitment to Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas.
This past year, our team delivered a new divisional strategic plan and organizational identity, completed a major learning
management system (LMS) migration, modernized campus
phone systems, and advanced more than 100 projects, all while maintaining the reliable services the University depends on.
This year also marked meaningful moments for our team. We welcomed 12 new hires and celebrated 17 milestone
anniversaries, while also pausing to remember our colleague Samuel Davidson, a Classroom Technology Specialist whose quiet dedication and willingness to support others made a
lasting impact on teaching and learning at Villanova. These
moments reflect both growth and the strong sense of community that sustains our work.
Our Employee Excellence Awards program was updated to recognize those who exemplify our values in action. Kathy
Gallagher, Director of Wildcard Services, earned the Caritas Service Award for extraordinary service during a campus
emergency in August 2025, supporting and guiding students,
families, and colleagues with calm, compassion, and care. John Bonass, Assistant Director of Wildcard Services, received the Veritas Professional Impact Award for his visionary work
advancing digital transformation and improving campus safety through innovative solutions. The Zoom Phone Team, including Ben Alfonsi, Vincent Czyzewski, Gary Elder, Emil Kotschneff, Max Mancini, John Medeck, Michael O'Neill and Emily Wilms, was honored with the Unitas Team Award for their collaborative
success with the Zoom Phone conversation, delivering a major campus-wide modernization ahead of schedule, enhancing service while reducing complexity and cost.
Milestone Anniversaries
New Hires Regina J. Beck Manager, Office of the CIO & Executive Assistant
10 Years Marie Gargan Jeff Hunsberger Mike Kriwonos Timothy Ryan
Stephanie Bulen Instructional Designer, Level II Parth Desai Full Stack SEO Developer
15 Years Bryan Hines Christopher Pyle
Alison Diefenderfer Instructional Designer, Level II
20 Years Chino Johnson Jeff Rule William Truitte
Matteo Ferro Enterprise Systems Cloud Engineer
25 Years Ashish Desai Kevin Donahue John Medeck Frank Palmarino
Nicholas Gavin Instructional Designer, Level II Will Marsh Assistant Director, Digital Experience and Learning
30 Years John Bonass Anthony Lazowski 40 Years Benjamin Alfonsi Carolann Weidmayer
Retirees
Michael Carey Kasia David Rose DiSalvo Jean Kong Emil Kotschneff John Medeck Carolann Weidmayer
Justin McLaughlin Associate Full Stack Developer Josh Poinsett Executive Director, Cloud & Research Computing Ashley Tarloski Director, Systems Administration & Operations Sheri Thompson AVP of Academic Technologies
Together, these achievements reflect a shared commitment to
supporting Villanova’s mission and strengthening the community we serve.
Employee Excellence Awards · 2025–2026
Note: Team members listed under New Hires, Milestone Anniversaries, and Retirees reflect hires, anniversaries, and retirements occurring between June 2025 and May 2026.
VERITAS PROFESSIONAL IMPACT AWARD
CARITAS SERVICE AWARD
UNITAS TEAM AWARD
John Bonass
Kathy Gallagher
Zoom Phone Team
Recognized for advancing digital
Honored for distinguished service to
Celebrated for collaborative impact
transformation for campus emergency response.
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
the Villanova community.
on campus communication.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
LOOKING AHEAD · CONTENTS
BUILDING ON MOMENTUM
The Year Ahead: Accelerating What We’ve Built 1 5 DEFINED PRIORITIES · ROOTED IN TECHNOVA 2026 With a new identity and strategy in place, Technology Services is focused on accelerating progress across 15 defined priorities. These priorities align with TechNova 2026 and support continued growth and innovation across the University.
STUDENTS AT THE CENTER
SECURING WHAT MATTERS MOST
Student Systems & Learning Technology
Identity, Access, & Zero Trust Security
Advancing student information systems for seamless
Modernizing identity and access management and
engagement. Modernizing teaching technology and
University’s data, systems, and community. A
digital experiences from admission through alumni expanding faculty digital enablement across every classroom.
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR WHAT’S NEXT
advancing a Zero-Trust framework to protect the
community built on Veritas must trust its digital spaces.
DATA, AI & DECISION-MAKING
Falvey, Cabrini, & Rosemont Readiness
Enterprise Analytics & Responsible AI
Preparing the new Falvey Library at Vic Maggitti Hall, the
Advancing enterprise data capabilities and
opening and full operation — ensuring every new space
tool in the service of truth and human dignity — ethical,
Cabrini campus, and the future Rosemont campus for is connected, capable, and ready.
EVOLVING HOW WE SERVE
institutionalizing IT governance. AI at Villanova will be a transparent, and grounded in Augustinian tradition.
A TEAM BUILT FOR THE FUTURE
Proactive Service & ERP Transformation
Workforce Development & Culture
Moving toward a proactive, user-centered support
Building clear career pathways, meaningful
planning (ERP) transformation in HR and Finance with
culture. Caritas calls us to care for one another — and
model. Advancing the foundation for enterprise resource the governance and change management it demands.
development opportunities, and a people-centered that begins within our own team.
DOWNLOAD ALL 15 PRIORITIES
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Technology with purpose. People at the center.
Thank you to the students, faculty, staff, and campus partners whose collaboration, trust, and shared
commitment to Villanova’s mission continues to shape the next chapter of technology together.
UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY
VILLANOVA.EDU/TECHNOLOGYSERVICES