Glitches in your hard drive? Slow Internet speed? Complications such as these are easily taken care of by a zippy call down to Information Technology and Services (IT&S). You may have already become familiar with the staff working with IT&S. Now, the department has a new head.Kyle Johnson has replaced Leah Kraus as Director of IT&S. Previous to accepting the position at Guilford, Johnson was executive director of student life technology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas from January to May, 2007. Before that, Johnson worked as the director of student affairs information technology services at Duke University from 1999-2006. He also did consulting in Ohio and North Carolina before working for Duke.
A longtime computer user, Johnson also claims to having owned one of the first Apple II+ computers in the mid 1970s.
“My primary goal here at the beginning is to work with the Guilford community to understand the strategic direction for the college and the specific needs and goals of the various departments,” Johnson said. “I also hope to increase the visibility of IT&S on campus and help the community see the value IT&S brings to Guilford College.”
Johnson received a B.A. from Duke University in anthropology and a Masters of Education in higher education administration from N.C. State.
The previous director, Leah Kraus, accepted an administrative job at UNC Wilmington. She left behind a positive impression with the Guilford IT&S staff.
“She was also bubbly and friendly,” said senior Wilt Johnston, supervisor of IT&S help desk and system/networks technician. “She had a good sense of humor and was considered a ‘people person.'”
IT&S in the past has shown to be accommodating which is displayed by the many students who request IT&S assistance. First-year Garrett Brandes has had nothing but good experiences with this service.
“Any time that I am in need of computer assistance, they react quickly. They are supportive in Bauman and are able to answer any computer questions that I have for them. Hopefully that proficiency will continue to be displayed going under new leadership.