‘Get to Know’ highlights the missions and contributions of NCSSM working groups, giving them a platform to share their impact with colleagues across the school.

The Information Technology Services (ITS) department is vital to NCSSM's success, providing comprehensive support through network infrastructure, cybersecurity, institutional data management, hardware, software, and IT services. Their work ensures NCSSM remains a leader in technology and educational innovation. ITS excels in several key areas, including cybersecurity leadership, pioneering network innovation, exceptional support, technology solutions, and innovative problem-solving.

• Cybersecurity Leadership
  Through annual training and phishing drills, ITS has strengthened NCSSM’s cybersecurity posture. Community members now recognize and report threats more effectively, using tools like the Phish Alert Button.

• State-of-the-Art Networks
  Both the Durham and Morganton campuses feature high-speed, reliable networks, ensuring seamless connectivity for students, faculty, and staff.

• Fun Fact! In 2001, NCSSM became a trailblazer in North Carolina by introducing campus-wide wireless networking and a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) model for student laptops.

• Exceptional IT Support
  Over the past year, ITS resolved 9,732 support requests through their ticketing system, in addition to countless direct inquiries, ensuring smooth operations across the institution.

• Technology Solutions
  ITS plays a critical role in providing laptops for employees, managing software licenses, designing advanced classroom setups, and partnering with stakeholders to find innovative solutions. Their efforts enhance efficiency and improve outcomes campus-wide.

Interesting Highlights

• ITS Wiki
  The ITS Wiki features over 226 articles on IT-related topics, offering self-help guides and training resources to empower community members.

• Building a Campus
  When tasked with deploying the Morganton campus network in just six weeks, originally planned for six months, ITS rose to the challenge, ensuring the campus was up and running on time.

• Hurricane Helene Pantry
  In response to Hurricane Helene, Nathan Harmer established "The Pantry" on the Morganton campus, providing free essentials to employees in need, a testament to ITS’s dedication to community care.

• Accessibility Solutions
  Recognizing the need for improved accessibility, Kristin Harrison secured funding for an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Scanner. This technology converts physical documents or images into accessible electronic formats. Kristin not only implemented the system but also trained staff to use it effectively.

Award-Winning Team

Five ITS members have received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence, and four additional team members have been nominated, highlighting their dedication and exceptional service:

• Award Recipients:

  • 2016–2017: Paul Menchini

  • 2018–2019: Nelson Butts

  • 2020–2021: Justin Fleming

  • 2023–2024: Will Mack

  • 2024–2025: Jared Jeffries

• Nominated Team Members:
  Chris Lee, Lee Welper, Kristin Harrison, Nathan Harmer

Thank you ITS for your invaluable contributions to NCSSM’s mission and success!

To feature your team, please make a submission HERE.