STAC Looks Back on Accomplishments and Elects New Leader

Last fall a record 54 students applied for a seat on the 20-person Student Technology Advisory Committee (STAC). This group of students is tasked with representing the voice of the student body on issues related to campus technology.  Consisting of students from different majors and organizations across campus, STAC provides a window into how students view technology integration with student life and academics across the University. 

The committee has participated in many discussions this year, providing advice to various IT projects to assure that a diverse and strong student voice is being heard.  Some notable discussions include:

• The role of technology in the Bicentennial Student Center, specifically the use of the theatre
• Integration of smartphones into campus life
• Miami web site redesign
• ASG's proposed consolidation of online Student Organization resources

STAC and IT Services recognizes the graduating seniors who have served this year:

• Hunter Olson, Senior, Computer Engineering -  recipient of the Senior Service Leadership Award
• Melissa Jewell, Senior, Computer Science
• Anita B. Kumar, Senior, Music Education
• Erin Perone, Senior, Management and Organizations and Interactive Media Studies
• Joseph Puchala, Senior, Architecture
• Gregory Salomon, Senior, Mass Communication

Andrew Virata, first year Chemistry major, was recently elected Student Co-Chair of STAC for 2009-10. He hopes to continue the committee's discussions on student smartphone use and follow up with students regarding the changes and improvements in wireless Internet access across campus.  Andrew also hopes to look into student Blackboard use, including identifying which features students currently use and which features they prefer to use. 

Applications for STAC membership in 2009-10 will be available at the beginning of fall semester. Watch for an announcement on myMiami.