umTech Newsletter - June 2025 Summer Edition

Dr. Jeff Delaney, CIO, Information Technology Services

In February 2024, Dr. Jeff Delaney joined the University of Memphis (UofM) as Chief Information Officer (CIO), bringing over three decades of experience in higher education IT leadership. Prior to this role, he served as Vice President of Information Technology and CIO at Kennesaw State University in Georgia.

Since joining the University of Memphis as CIO, Dr. Delaney has set a clear vision for advancing the institution’s technology landscape. His priorities center on enhancing operational capabilities, strengthening cybersecurity across the university, and providing robust support to the research community. With a focus on aligning IT strategy with institutional goals, Dr. Delaney is committed to ensuring that technology serves as a powerful enabler of academic excellence, innovation, and student success. In his statement upon joining UofM, he expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the university’s strategic initiatives, emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in advancing research and student success.

ITS Welcomes Michelle Belton, Director, Desktop and Smart Technologies Services

ITS has welcomed Michelle Belton as its new Director of Desktop Services. She brings valuable IT leadership experience, including her previous role at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

In this role, Belton will lead efforts to ensure secure, reliable, and efficient desktop computing across campus. Her expertise will support the university’s technology goals and enhance services for students, faculty, and staff.

What’s New in Research Computing

We are excited to announce that Brian Wentzloff has joined our team as the new Associate Research Solutions Engineer. He started on Monday, May 19th, Brian brings a wealth of experience from his work in the Biology lab at UofM, where he has been a strong advocate for advanced computing techniques. In his new role, Brian will support HPC and advanced computing resource use, engage in community outreach, and handle various organizational and administrative tasks. Welcome, Brian!

The University of Memphis boasts significant resources in advanced computing. Our main HPC (High Powered Computing) system features over 9,000 CPU cores, 45TB of RAM, and 650TB of high-speed storage. Additionally, we offer 20 GPUs accessible to all users. But did you know there’s another entire GPU cluster available? Thanks to a $1M MRI grant from NSF, a professor in Computer Science has acquired an 88-GPU cluster. Visit our website to learn more about this impressive addition.

As we continue to expand our advanced computing environment, we aim to increase adoption through training and outreach. To support this goal, we are hosting a full-day symposium on September 4th at the University Center (UC300). This event will highlight the growing availability and utilization of computational resources on campus. Plans are underway, but attendees can expect speakers, demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and maybe even a little conference swag and food. Keep an eye out for an invitation to our inaugural Research Computing Symposium.

Security Enhancement for Desktops

Cyber criminals are using fake CAPTCHA tests on compromised websites to trick users—especially students—into installing malware through the Windows + R shortcut, leading to stolen data like passwords and crypto currency. To protect the campus community, the University of Memphis will be disabling the Windows + R shortcut on all campus computers to prevent misuse and enhance security.

Quick Tech Solutions

1. Restarting your computer resolves many, many computer problems.
2. Know whether your system is connected to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet. Knowing this can greatly speed up basic troubleshooting for a variety of issues.
   
                              
        Ethernet          Power                 Wifi
   
   
3. Avoid the “Sponsored” links at the very top of a page when searching the web. Sponsored links are paid for by outside companies to appear at the top of a search results page, but often these links are compromised and can re-direct a user to download malware.
4. Know exactly where you saved a file, particularly in Office programs like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Use OneDrive, the default file for saving. If you don’t remember where you save your files, this can make a file hard to find when you need it later.
5. Press F1 for help in the application to find out how to do something.
6. Search Google for answers to computer problems. It is highly likely that you will find a “how to” video or text answer.
   
   

Smart Classroom Technology Upgrades Coming This Summer

Get ready for a smarter, more connected classroom experience! This summer, Information Technology Services (ITS) will upgrade audiovisual equipment in 28 smart classrooms located in Ball Hall, Clement Hall, Dunn Hall, Johnson Hall, Jones Hall, Manning Hall, the Psychology Building, Patterson Hall, and the Theatre Building.

These upgrades will include:

• USB-C connectivity for fast, easy device integration
• Wireless screen sharing to simplify presentations
• Laptop access to cameras and microphones in Microsoft Teams enabled classrooms
• Improved power management to enable remote equipment maintenance and support
• High-performance laser projectors built for longevity and quick usability
• These improvements are designed to enhance teaching and learning by making classroom technology more accessible, reliable, and flexible.

Course Email Groups to Retire Summer 2025

Starting Summer 2025, course email groups (e.g., PSYC1030001.2023F@memphis.edu) will no longer be available due to changes in Microsoft Office 365. Microsoft is limiting their use in educational settings, affecting how faculty communicate with classes.

Faculty should begin transitioning to alternatives such as Microsoft Teams, Canvas messaging, and announcements—all fully supported and integrated with the university’s digital tools. Support resources
are available to assist with this transition.

An infographic on how to send emails using myMemphis

Canvas Communication Resources from UM3D, including instructional videos and guides

Faculty with questions or those needing additional support are encouraged to contact the ITS Service Desk at umtech@memphis.edu or submit a service request. This change marks a shift toward more modern and integrated communication tools, and the university is committed to supporting faculty throughout the process.

Campus Tech Upgrades This Summer

Campus-wide technology upgrades are underway to enhance performance and prepare for future needs. Windows 11 Upgrade — All campus computers are being upgraded to Windows 11 ahead of Windows 10 support ending in October 2025. New devices already ship with Windows 11, and existing systems will be updated in phases. ITS recommends regular restarts and contacting the Service Desk or visiting the umTech website for help.

Network Services Projects 

Upgrading network switches across all remaining buildings.

Enhancing wireless networks, starting at Lambuth Campus in June.

Completing network and wireless upgrades in residence halls before fall.

Continuing campus-wide security camera upgrades, with 200+ already completed.