An information technology veteran with 20 years of versatile experience in post-secondary education will join Purdue University Calumet and Purdue University North Central as Vice Chancellor of Information Services Nov. 1.
The appointment of Tim Winders is announced by both campuses in anticipation of their emerging unification into Purdue University Northwest (PNW), subject to approval by the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits both universities. The unification is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2016-17 academic year.
Winders is Associate Dean of Information Technology at South Plains College, a junior college in the west Texas community of Levelland. He succeeds Sarah Howard, whose previously announced retirement becomes effective Oct. 15.
Extensive experience
Throughout his two decades with South Plains, Winders has led efforts to evaluate and invest in emerging technologies while leveraging limited budget and resources. This philosophy has created a technology-friendly atmosphere that has helped increase student enrollment and supports faculty, staff and student success.
In his new role, Winders will have overall responsibility and oversight for delivery and integration of information technology for both Northwest Indiana Purdue campuses. He also will be responsible for effective governance and policies related to access and use of the campuses’ information services and technology systems, as well as leadership and implementation of system-wide and regional campus IS strategic goals, strategies, policies and procedures. Additionally, he will provide leadership in preparing the campuses to make appropriate choices about new and developing information technologies to foster high quality research learning services that meet the curricular and scholarly needs of faculty, students, staff and community.
“Tim’s many years as a technology leader with hands-on experience in higher education technology management make him the right fit for this important role as our two campuses come together,” Purdue North Central Chancellor James B. Dworkin said. “We look forward to Tim’s ability to leverage our outstanding Information Services team’s talents to continue to improve the technology experience on both campuses for our students, faculty, staff and visitors.”
Technology advisor
Previous to joining South Plains, Winders gained significant experience in the information technology industry. He earned a master’s degree in Information Technology Management and a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Johns Hopkins University. He also has earned multiple information technology certifications and awards, and he serves extensively as a technology advisor for business and K-12 educational partners in his community.
“I am humbled by the enthusiasm with which my appointment is being met, but I must admit to being equally elated,” Winders said. “When I heard the vision for the Purdue University Calumet and Purdue University North Central family from the Chancellors, I was immediately drawn to their passion. I am eager to become part of the team that implements that vision.”
Retiring current VC
Retiring Vice Chancellor Howard has had an extensive career as both an information technology and higher education professional. Since joining Purdue Calumet in 2001, she has served in multiple leadership roles including Dean of Students, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Life, Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, and Interim Vice Chancellor for Information Services. She has been Vice Chancellor of Information Services for Purdue Calumet and Purdue North Central since June 2014.
“Under Sarah’s leadership, the unification of the two campuses’ Information Services organization, processes, technology solutions and strategies to support student and faculty success has made significant progress in just the past year,” Purdue Calumet Chancellor Thomas L. Keon said. “Additionally, she has left her mark on the Calumet campus with significant enhancements to student services and student experience during her time here. We thank her for her considerable contributions.”
As the unified Purdue Calumet and Purdue North Central, Purdue University Northwest would become the fifth largest public university in Indiana, enrolling approximately 16,000 students and offering more than 45 undergraduate and graduate programs of study on two vibrant campuses.