App State’s Information Technology Services (ITS) team is committed to advancing the university’s academic mission, strategic priorities and business operations, while managing and safeguarding mission-critical tools.
As we embark upon a new semester, I want to provide an update outlining several large, ongoing initiatives with major milestones in progress that will positively impact the university.
Upgrading our network for resiliency and growth
Since 2024, ITS has been working on a full upgrade and modernization of our university network, making it faster, as well as more secure, reliable and user-friendly. Key upgrades include:
Enhanced security: Customized network access to protect data.
Improved performance: Dividing the network into smaller sections will make it more responsive, increase bandwidth and prevent issues from affecting the entire campus.
Better monitoring and sustainable features: Advanced tools for quick problem resolution with increased efficiency and energy-saving options.
Increased reliability: Backup batteries will protect network equipment during power outages, ensuring continuous operation. Efforts will also be made to reduce the likelihood of widespread disruptions.
This work will be ongoing to meet current and future needs as we install and configure essential equipment across campus to form the backbone of our new network.
Account access and password management
Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a process that manages user access to IT resources such as devices, applications, data and the network, ensuring that the right people have access to the right resources at the right time. This program will make it easier and faster to grant access to IT services and will better automate account management.
In December 2024, ITS began implementing the university’s three-phase IAM program for accounts management and user access.
Phase 1 is complete. ITS streamlined the process for setting up and closing accounts in Google and directory services. Employees may continue to experience occasional connectivity or authentication issues as system adjustments are made.
Phase 2, in early spring 2025, will launch a new password manager. As passwords expire and new employees or students join the university, they will use this new system.
Phase 3, in mid- to late-2025, will include continued integration and improvements. More information will be shared as it is available.
Standardize digital content accessibility
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice updated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with specific requirements about accessibility of web content and mobile apps. This new rule applies to state institutions of public education.
App State has set a March 1, 2026, internal deadline, ahead of the April 24, 2026, national deadline to meet compliance requirements.
Web content includes, but is not limited to, video and electronic documents on public-facing websites or behind login on applications such as learning management systems (i.e., AsULearn), and social media content.
ITS is currently working with campus partners to identify action items for faculty, staff and students who create applicable content. More information will be shared soon.
To get started now, visit the Training & Consultations page on the university’s Accessibility website.
Flight Path
In April 2024, App State partnered with ed tech nonprofit Project Kitty Hawk to offer five online degree programs in 2024–25. These programs are designed for nontraditional learners, and the initiative is part of a statewide effort to expand higher education access to working adults in North Carolina.
While Project Kitty Hawk remains the name of our partner, these academic programs at App State are called Flight Path. As the university works to expand this initiative, which requires significant technical and business process coordination, the Flight Path name will distinguish these students from other populations and will allow for simplified communications about the program.
Continued progress: Self-Service upgrade
The multi-year improvement project of our Self-Service applications, Banner 8 upgrade to Banner 9, is nearing 75% completion. This upgrade includes a modern, mobile-friendly interface, updated functionality and more web browser options.
This spring, our team will complete the transition of the following Self-Service modules:
Reverse Transfer (for students)
Online Graduation Application (for students)
General Education upgrades to accommodate Gen Ed 3.0 (for students, advisors and deans)
ITS will continue to provide further instructions for these improvement projects. Thank you for your continued support and collaboration with our team and our campus partners as we work to deliver the best experience possible for all employees and students, now and in the future.
Questions?
Contact the IT Support Services Help Desk at 828-262-6266 or support@appstate.edu for assistance or with questions.
For Students
IT Support Services assists students and employees with App State and personal devices. For questions or tech support:
Contact the ITS Help Desk at 828-262-6266, weekdays, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., or via email at support@appstate.edu.
Submit a support ticket (login required) and indicate your campus location (Boone or Hickory) for routing.
Visit the Technology Support Center:
Boone campus — Anne Belk Hall, Room 140, weekdays, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
Hickory campus — Hickory Library and Information Commons, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–7 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Digitally depicted envelopes being opened with the App State Information Technology Services logo and the text: News from the CIO
The Chief Information Officer of App State ITS shares a Spring 2025 semester update.