Dispatches from an Internet PioneerDeep Dive: The Ideal CIO
In this episode, we explore what it truly means to be an ideal university CIO today — far beyond managing systems or fixing Wi-Fi. We discuss how the CIO has evolved into a strategic executive and cultural architect, responsible for aligning technology with mission, simplifying work, building trust, and guiding institutions through continual disruption. Drawing on real-world lessons and field-tested insights, we unpack what boards should look for, what candidates should hold firm to, and why this work demands clarity, courage, and deep alignment. Whether you’re a higher ed leader, an aspiring CIO, or someone fascinated by the intersection of technology and culture, this conversation offers a candid, inspiring guide to leadership that shapes the future.
About the podcast
Technology is reshaping higher education, leadership, and the economy—but the biggest challenges aren’t just technical, they’re cultural and structural. Created by Timothy Chester, this podcast explores the real impact of AI, automation, and digital transformation on universities, work, and society. With a sociologist’s lens and decades in higher ed IT leadership, he cuts through the hype to uncover what truly matters.
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