What's Happening?
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) has announced the appointment of Tom Armstrong as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective January 9, 2026. Armstrong brings a wealth of experience
from both the private sector and state government, having worked in auditing and infrastructure management at major firms like Deloitte, IBM, and PwC. He also served as an adjunct professor at Gateway Community College and held a significant role at Fairfield University as the assistant vice president for enterprise systems. In his most recent position, Armstrong directed IT strategy and enterprise architecture for the state of Connecticut, managing IT operations across 40 state agencies. His efforts in cybersecurity, digital transformation, and AI implementation have been notable. At SCSU, Armstrong is expected to enhance technology services, support student success, and drive institutional excellence, according to Lillian Wanjagi, SCSU's vice president for finance and administration.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Tom Armstrong as CIO at SCSU is significant as it underscores the university's commitment to advancing its technological infrastructure to meet the needs of digital-native students. Armstrong's extensive experience in both the public and private sectors positions him to effectively bridge the gap between stable IT operations and the need for innovation in educational settings. His leadership is expected to foster experimentation in teaching and learning, preparing students for rapidly evolving career fields. This move aligns with broader efforts to close digital divides and promote digital equity, as seen in Armstrong's previous initiatives in state government. The focus on AI and digital transformation at SCSU could serve as a model for other institutions aiming to modernize their technology systems.
What's Next?
As Tom Armstrong steps into his role at SCSU, he will likely prioritize aligning IT initiatives with the university's mission and strategic goals. This includes updating infrastructure to optimize spending and support experimentation in teaching and learning. Armstrong's approach will involve building strong partnerships with faculty to ensure that AI and other technologies are implemented effectively and ethically. The university community can expect a focus on transparency and stakeholder engagement to balance best practices with flexibility. Armstrong's leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of diverse academic departments and student-facing functions, ensuring that technology efforts respect the university's culture and meet the evolving needs of its students.
