“While this provides additional time, it does not change the Institute’s commitment to ensuring that Georgia Tech’s digital environment is accessible to everyone and aligned with federal requirements,” said Jarmon DeSadier, vice president for Equal Opportunity, Compliance, and Conflict Management. “The Institute will continue to move forward in advancing accessibility as a core principle of how we design, build, and manage our digital presence.” 

Over the past several months, teams across Georgia Tech have made meaningful progress in laying the groundwork for sustainable compliance. This includes launching a centralized digital accessibility website with guidance and resources, delivering training to build campus capability, establishing a comprehensive inventory of web assets to clarify ownership and accountability, and implementing enterprise tools to identify and address accessibility issues. Work is also underway to expand document remediation capabilities to support improvements across instructional and web content. 

In addition, Georgia Tech is advancing a new web governance framework to provide the structure and standards needed to sustain this work over time. Together, these efforts ensure that accessibility is not a one-time initiative, but an integrated, ongoing responsibility shared by all community members. 

Looking ahead, the Institute will continue to build on this foundation — expanding services, strengthening support, and accelerating remediation across websites, applications, and learning materials. The goal is long-term, sustainable compliance and a digital environment that works for everyone. 

For more information on digital accessibility at Georgia Tech, visit digitalaccess.gatech.edu. 

“We are grateful to Governor Kemp, the General Assembly, and the Board of Regents for continuing to invest in the success of Georgia Tech. With Governor Kemp’s approval of the state budget, Georgia Tech's appropriation reflects the state’s strong confidence in our mission and momentum,” said Tricia Chastain, executive vice president for Administration and Finance. “These funds, which support our growing enrollment, will allow us to advance our educational and research initiatives that serve communities in Georgia and beyond. The modest increases in tuition reaffirm the System’s commitment to student affordability and broad access to a world-class education.”  

Online Tuition, Fees, and Cost of Attendance  

The BOR has also approved new in-state, out-of-state, and out-of-country rates for the Online Master of Science in Analytics, Online Master of Science in Computer Science, and Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity programs. In-state students will receive a 1% tuition increase, tuition for out-of-state students will increase 5%, and out-of-country tuition will increase 10%. Even with the increases, these online degrees remain highly affordable among comparable programs. Tuition for all other online and professional master’s programs at Georgia Tech will increase by 3% per credit hour. 

The BOR also approved fee increases for several of its 25 member institutions. At Georgia Tech, mandatory student fees will increase by 1.3%, and online learning fees will increase by nearly 20% — though they remain 40% lower than in-person learning fees and on par with other USG institutions. In addition, the BOR approved limited increases for dining and housing rates across the System, including Georgia Tech. These measured fee increases balance rising operational costs with affordability for students.   

Visit the USG website for a full listing of tuition, fee, and rate changes.   

“Georgia Tech continues to be recognized nationally for delivering exceptional value in higher education, and we are committed to providing outstanding education and employment outcomes for our students and families,” said Chastain. “These tuition and fee decisions reflect a careful balance between sustaining the quality of the Georgia Tech experience and maintaining an exceptional return on investment.” 

Georgia Tech’s Office of Institute Budget Planning and Administration will submit the FY27 budget to the Board of Regents for spending approval in advance of its meeting in May. The new fiscal year begins July 1. 

The day began with breakfast and small-group working sessions, providing opportunities for networking, idea-sharing, and broader campus engagement. The program officially opened with remarks from the OneIT leadership committee, which emphasized the organization’s role in fostering communication and collaboration among campus IT teams. 

Joe Lewis, associate vice president for IT and chief information security oficer, delivered the keynote address, “Securing the Hive,” a title that echoed the event’s theme, The Hive Mind. “I want to build, with each of you, a cyber program that operates as a service to the Institute – not a checkpoint,” Lewis said. “I can’t build it alone,” he continued. “I need your eyes and your instincts. You are the eyes and the ears of the hive.” 

The symposium also included a presentation by Loulou Hong, vice president for Student Engagement and Well‑Being, who spoke about the intersection of technology, engagement, and the well‑being of the Georgia Tech community. 

Attendees participated in afternoon parallel‑track sessions designed to explore specific IT initiatives and shared challenges. Topics included: upcoming Office of Information Technology (OIT) Cybersecurity endpoint implementations; computing services offered by the Partnership for an Advanced Computing Environment; the democratization of data – including tools and approaches to support broader, more effective access to institutional sources; and improvements to onboarding and off-boarding processes, both noted as critical to operational efficiency and campus cybersecurity. 

Participants later reconvened for updates on the newly established Shield research enclave, an initiative that supports Institute research compliance through a secure computing environment. 

The event concluded with closing remarks that reinforced the OneIT leadership committee’s mission to strengthen connections among campus IT staff and translate collaboration into meaningful outcomes for the Institute. 

Sponsored by OIT, OneIT is an initiative that connects IT staff across Colleges, departments, and administrative units, builds shared practices, standards, and communities of practice, and coordinates security, infrastructure, and service initiatives across campus IT offices.  

2026 OneIT committee members include: Andrew Leonard (co-chair), IT support engineer, College of Computing; Jimmy Pearson (co-chair), senior application support analyst, OIT; Chris Helms, IT architecture manager, Georgia Tech Library; Eric Mungai, director of IT, Ivan Allen College; Ben Pritchett, IT support senior manager, School of Aerospace Engineering; Bill Robbins, lead systems/IT architecture (GTRI); Lawrence Sharp, director of IT, School of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISyE); Gabe Vannice, director of Architecture & Infrastructure, OIT; and Joe Zima, technical support manager, ISyE.

View pictures from the 2026 OneIT Spring Symposium here.

Affected areas include: 

• Academy of Medicine exterior spaces, parking lot, and interior spaces. 

• George Tower | Scheller Tower exterior spaces, adjacent parking lot, and first floor event space. 

• Street parking closures on West Peachtree Street, Biltmore Place, and Fifth Street. 

• Intermittent pedestrian and vehicular traffic holds on Biltmore Place and Fifth Street (only on Monday, March 23). 

These temporary disruptions will occur at varying times, but expect the greatest impact to occur between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. on Monday, March 23.  

Please plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time. Signage and security officers will be on-site to assist.  

If the partial shutdown is prolonged, mitigation strategies will need to be implemented to preserve cash and maintain campus operations. Similar to the previous shutdown, mitigation strategies will include accelerating federal invoicing; monitoring cash balances; and assessing the need to defer certain purchases, hiring, and non-essential travel.   

The working group is closely monitoring this situation, and the Federal Shutdown Resources webpage will be updated with information as the situation develops.

“We actively plan for these types of situations, and the Institute is well-positioned in the short term,” said Kim Toatley, vice president for Finance and Planning and chief financial officer. “We understand that these situations can create uncertainty across our community, especially for those whose work and research depend on federal funding. Should a partial federal shutdown occur, leadership is committed to minimizing its impact on students, faculty, and staff.” 

With guidance from a cross-functional working group, executive leadership continues to monitor the developing situation and is ready to implement strategies to help ensure continuity in the event of a partial federal government shutdown. Similar to the previous shutdown, mitigation strategies will include accelerating federal invoicing; monitoring cash balances; and assessing the need to defer certain purchases, hiring, and non-essential travel.   

The Federal Shutdown Resources webpage will be updated with information as the situation develops.  

Georgia Tech is committed to fostering an accessible environment where all members of our community can learn, engage, and thrive. Creating accessible digital experiences is a critical component of this commitment and reflects our institutional values of excellence and community well-being. 

As a public institution, Georgia Tech also has a legal responsibility under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure that our websites, digital content, online services, and digital communication tools are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities.  

“While Georgia Tech has already established protocols to provide accessible services to our students, faculty, and staff, there is more we can do to provide exceptional digital resources to our community,” said Jarmon DeSadier, vice president for Equal Opportunity, Compliance, and Conflict Management (EOCCM). “Accessibility is not a one-time checklist; it is an ongoing, shared responsibility where all members of the Georgia Tech community who create, manage, or share digital content help ensure an accessible learning and working environment. We realize this effort will add to people’s workload in the short-term, and we are taking a strategic approach to digital accessibility and working to ensure the right tools and resources are in place to best support the community.” 

Updated Guidance on Accessible Digital Content 

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued updated guidance under Title II of the ADA, clarifying that public universities must ensure that their digital content and services are accessible. As such, Georgia Tech is working toward the goal of making digital content accessible to all community members by the DOJ’s deadline of April 24. 

Why Digital Accessibility Matters 
Accessible digital content benefits everyone who engages with Georgia Tech. Specifically, it reduces barriers to access to information and helps accomplish the following: 

• Supports individuals who use assistive technologies such as screen readers, captioning, keyboard navigation, or voice recognition software. 

• Improves usability for everyone, including users on mobile devices or in low-bandwidth environments. 

• Strengthens Georgia Tech’s ability to serve the entirety of our evolving community. 

Who This Applies To 
All Georgia Tech faculty, staff, and student employees are expected to understand and follow digital accessibility requirements as part of their roles, particularly if they: 

• Create or edit websites or web content. 

• Develop or share digital documents, forms, or presentations. 

• Teach or support instruction. 

• Produce or manage videos, audio, or multimedia. 

• Create, post, or manage social media content for Georgia Tech accounts. 

• Use digital tools to communicate with students, employees, or any external audiences. 

In the meantime, the Digital Access website digitalaccess.gatech.edu has been established to serve as the central hub for updated guidance for Title II of the ADA; training resources; and support related to websites, instructional materials, multimedia, and more.  

More information will be shared as it becomes available, including direct communications to affected groups with training and resources.  

Shared governance is an important part of how Georgia Tech makes policy decisions, and leadership is committed to listening to faculty and staff and communicating openly. In the Q&A below, Kim Toatley, vice president for Finance and Planning and chief financial officer, explains the reasons behind the updated policy, what’s required, and where to find resources to help faculty and staff navigate Institute travel smoothly and confidently. 

1. What influenced Georgia Tech’s updated Air Transportation Policy, and what are the main goals behind these changes? 

In fiscal year 2025, we spent approximately $25 million on Institute-related travel, making it essential to manage these resources responsibly. To strengthen compliance and improve efficiency, the Air Transportation Policy was updated to require centralized booking through Travel Inc., Georgia Tech’s contracted travel management company. This update applies to all Institute Colleges and non-Colleges, regardless of funding source. While several mitigation strategies were explored before the changes, they did not resolve the audit findings and compliance risks. We believe this centralized approach will help address noncompliance and encourage strong stewardship with the University System of Georgia (USG) Business Procedures Manual as well as state and federal compliance requirements. 

2. How does the Institute respond to concerns about higher airfares through Travel Inc. compared to booking directly with airlines?

We understand that travelers may sometimes find lower fares elsewhere. However, Travel Inc.'s fares reflect contracted rates that include important protections, such as refund and exchange options, duty-of-care coverage, and compliance reporting — protections that are often not included in those lower fares. Basic economy fares, which are often nonrefundable and nontransferable, are excluded from comparison because they don’t offer the flexibility or safeguards required for Institute travel. Georgia Tech’s arrangement with Travel Inc. also allows the Institute to match or beat comparable fares when presented with identical flight details. If a traveler finds a comparable flight with a lower fare, all they need to do is talk to a Travel Inc. agent. We also heard concerns about fare visibility in Concur. In response, we worked with Travel Inc. to improve access to published fares and refine search filters, among other things. 

3. Can you explain how flexibility and traveler support through Travel Inc. may offset the perception of higher airfare costs? 

Travel Inc. offers flexibility for changes and cancellations, which can significantly reduce penalties and administrative costs. Early data suggests that, while fares may sometimes appear higher, the overall cost is often lower when considering avoided change fees and improved traveler support. We are continuously collecting and reviewing data to ensure that our travel program delivers compliant options, such as low fares, with minimal administrative burden. 

4. What options are available if a preferred flight cannot be found through Travel Inc.? 

If a preferred flight isn’t available through Travel Inc., travelers may contact Travel Inc. agents by phone at 770.291.5190, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., or 1.877.548.2996 after hours. Travelers can also send an email support request for individual trips to travel.requests@travelinc.com, and group travel (10 or more individuals traveling to the same destination) to gtpcorporate@travelinc.com. If the issue remains unresolved, it can be escalated through ServiceNow for direct support from the Georgia Tech Travel and Expense team. We are committed to helping travelers find solutions that meet their needs while remaining compliant with the Institute and USG’s policies. We also expanded the escalation process to ensure that unresolved issues are reviewed, allowing recurring concerns to be addressed at a systemic level.

5. How does the policy accommodate special cases, such as gift-funded travel, group travel, or travel for non-employees? 

We strive to provide clear guidance and support for these special cases. Gift-funded travel is permitted as long as it complies with Institute policies and limitations. For group and student travel, Travel Inc. has a dedicated Group Travel Team to help manage large bookings and reduce the administrative workload. Non-employees on official Georgia Tech business can have travel arranged by the coordinating unit using the Single Trip Direct Bill Airfare Form.

6. What steps has Georgia Tech taken to ensure that faculty and staff concerns are heard and addressed, even if the policy itself will not change?

We value the feedback received from faculty and staff during the open comment period and through ongoing conversations, and we remain committed to transparency and collaboration. Feedback has already informed several improvements, including the booking timeline and fare visibility in Concur.  

To better support the campus, the Travel and Expense team has shared travel updates through campuswide announcements and published detailed guidance in the Policy Library. Additionally, the Know Before You Go travel resource guide is available on the Procurement website. The Fundamentals of Travel training is undergoing a system upgrade and will be relaunched in early 2026, along with a redesigned travel website for an improved user experience.

The Travel and Expense Team will continue to work with Travel Inc. to incorporate user feedback, improve fare competitiveness, and enhance the booking experience. Our goal is to communicate clearly and provide resources that help everyone navigate the Air Transportation Policy and other related policies.

7. What resources and support are available to help faculty and staff navigate the updated travel policy?

Faculty and staff have access to a range of travel resources, including the Georgia Tech Travel section of the Procurement and Business Services website, the Concur online booking tool, which integrates with Travel Inc., and dedicated support teams. For additional assistance, travelers can create a ServiceNow ticket. We encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources to help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

"We are grateful to the campus community for strong participation in the 2025 Fall Biannual Compliance Training,” said Georgia Tech’s Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Joshua Toas. “Georgia Tech is required to conduct training twice a year — in the fall and in the spring. As we start the spring compliance training, we appreciate everyone’s continued commitment to the training and to compliance across the Institute."  

Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 4, all faculty, staff, and students who are active employees as of Jan. 12 will be required to complete the 2026 Spring Biannual Compliance Training by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 27. The training is available at https://b.gatech.edu/genius.  

This year’s training will include the following and should take no more than 50 minutes to complete:     

2026 Spring Biannual Compliance Training 

• Part 1: Identifying and Responding to Sexual Misconduct 

• Part 2: 2026 Your Role: Internet Security and You 

• Part 3: Deepfakes, Scams, and Disinformation  

• Part 4: AI and Sensitive Info Don’t Mix   

• Part 5: Insider Threats for End Users 

“Cybersecurity training and the understanding of its shared responsibility are key to combating evolving cyberthreats,” added Georgia Tech’s Chief Information Security Officer Joe Lewis. “The spring cybersecurity modules will help Georgia Tech employees learn to detect deepfakes, phishing attempts, and artificial intelligence-based scams. These training sessions will help keep the Institute’s digital assets and information secure.”  

The USG mandates the training for all employees. It can be completed on a desktop or laptop and does not need to be finished all at once. Employees who do not complete the training by the deadline may face disciplinary action by the Institute.   

To help you stay vigilant, OIT offers these holiday cybersafety tips:   

Think Before You Click: Do not click on links or open attachments in suspicious emails or text messages. Cyber attackers may attempt to gather personal information through phishing and other fraudulent attempts by asking you to confirm purchase or account information, including passwords. Never provide sensitive information through these methods. Legitimate businesses and organizations will never ask for your personal information through email or text. 

Two-Factor Authentication Scams: Never approve Duo two-factor authentication requests you did not initiate. If you receive an unexpected prompt, deny it immediately.   

Shop Smart and Secure: Use only reputable websites that you know and trust. Type URLs directly into your browser instead of clicking on links in messages, especially from unfamiliar retailers. Always verify the legitimacy of a company before supplying your financial information, such as credit/debit card numbers. Also, if an offer seems too good to be true — it often is. 

Use a Credit Card for Online Transactions: There are laws to limit your liability for fraudulent credit card charges, but you may not have the same level of protection when using debit cards. Always check your card statements for fraudulent or unrecognizable charges. Immediately notify your financial institution and local law enforcement if you discover fraud.   

Georgia Tech students, faculty, and staff are urged to report suspicious emails through Microsoft Outlook’s Report Phishing, even if the message appears to come from someone with an Institute email address. Campus members who believe their Georgia Tech account has been compromised should immediately contact OIT’s Cybersecurity Operations Center at soc@gatech.edu.  

We hope the Georgia Tech community remains vigilant against cyberthreats this holiday season — and throughout 2026.

This year’s theme, “Unlocking Your Power: AI, Data, and Innovation,” emphasizes how Georgia Tech students, faculty, researchers, and staff can harness the combined potential of data and AI to enhance learning, research, and operational excellence. 

The two-day event will include a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, featuring keynotes from data and AI leaders, interactive workshops, and poster sessions that showcase how data and innovation are transforming the way the Institute works and learns. Participants will gain practical insight into using data and AI tools to inform decisions, accelerate discovery, and drive progress across disciplines. 

“Data and AI are two of the most transformative forces shaping how we work, learn, and make decisions today,” said Leo Howell, vice president for Information Technology and chief information officer. “At Georgia Tech, we are committed to empowering our community with the knowledge, skills, and tools to unlock the full potential of these technologies — responsibly and creatively — to improve how we learn, work, and innovate.” 

Launched in 2022, Data Days was created to strengthen Georgia Tech’s data community of practice, advance data literacy, and celebrate the impact of data-informed decision-making across the Institute. The annual event fosters collaboration, idea exchange, and innovation among experts, practitioners, and learners at all levels. 

Data Days 2025 is co-hosted by the Office of Information Technology and the Office of Institutional Research and Planning. 

The Data Days conference is free and open to all Georgia Tech students, faculty, researchers, and staff. To view the full schedule and register to attend, visit datax.gatech.edu.

On Oct. 1, the Office of Sustainability (a department within Infrastructure and Sustainability) led the second meeting of the University System of Georgia (USG) Campus Energy and Resiliency Group (CERG) summit to further the conversation around energy management for campuses statewide. Six Georgia schools participated: Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, Emory University, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, and the University of West Georgia. Staff from the sustainability, utilities, and engineering departments of each of these schools gathered to discuss setting USG energy targets and best practices for reducing energy use, increasing energy efficiency, and establishing shared resources.  

USG Vice Chancellor of Real Estate and Facilities Sandra Neuse was the keynote speaker. “I’m thrilled that the Campus Energy and Resiliency Group has come together organically to share their collective expertise in energy efficiency and sustainability,” she said. “Their focus on establishing energy efficiency targets and collaborating with other institutions across the USG will not only avoid costs — it is an investment in the future and a model for our students, who will be the next generation of leaders.” 

The call for the development of the summit was inspired by the potential of collaboration throughout the USG, and the acknowledgment that each university has unique expertise, experience, and insight that can aid in energy management strategies for campuses across Georgia.   

The key ideas discussed during the summit included: 

• Setting statewide USG energy targets. 

• Assessing Energy Use intensity, a metric that measures energy use per square foot per year at a building level. 

• Developing a framework for best practices within the USG to share strategies for increasing energy efficiency and conservation. 

• Developing standards for how utility data is tracked. 

Increasing energy management efforts is critical right now as utility rates continue to rise. Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability, presented Georgia Tech’s energy data at the event. “One of the most important aspects of campus sustainability is increasing energy efficiency and setting energy targets to advance progress. We are excited to partner with our peers across USG to share best practices and move this effort forward,” she said. 

The Georgia Tech Office of Sustainability plans on continued engagement with other USG campuses across the state, and the next summit is scheduled for Spring 2026 at Kennesaw State University. 

Launched in 2004 by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the annual observance of NCAM each October raises awareness about online safety and teaches individuals and organizations how to protect themselves from cyberthreats, such as phishing attacks, credential theft, and social engineering tactics. It also notes the importance of safeguarding digital information. 

“Cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge — it’s a shared responsibility across our entire campus community,” said Joe Lewis, associate vice president of Information Technology and chief information security officer. “OIT Cybersecurity is committed to empowering and enabling a culture of cyber awareness that prepares students, faculty, and staff to make smart, secure decisions to protect themselves and the Institute’s digital assets. As increasingly complex cyberthreats evolve, so must our vigilance.”  

OIT Cybersecurity has developed the Cybersecurity Awareness webpage and reminds the Georgia Tech community of the following tips this Cybersecurity Awareness Month:  

• If you receive a suspicious email, even if it appears to come from Institute personnel, immediately report it to phishing@gatech.edu. 

• Do not trust unexpected text messages, even if they appear to come from Institute personnel. Contact OIT or your office’s IT Help Desk immediately if uncertain.  

• Never approve Duo two-factor (2FA) authentication requests you did not initiate. If you receive an unexpected prompt, deny it immediately.  

• Do not share 2FA authentication codes under any circumstances. Georgia Tech support professionals will never ask you to share Duo codes or personal information via phone.  

• Always verify requests related to account access or payroll changes by contacting your office’s IT support team or human resources professional directly.   

• Never change your Institute password by clicking on a link in an email you receive. Directly type the Passport URL into your browser. Only change your password on the Passport site at passport.gatech.edu.  

Explore more cybersecurity guidance to enhance your cybersafety knowledge by visiting the Cybersecurity Awareness at Georgia Tech webpage at oit.gatech.edu/cybersecurityawareness.

The Security Hub is designed to serve as a collaborative workspace for the GTPD, the Midtown Alliance, and the Atlanta Police Department (APD), enabling stronger communication, coordination, and response capabilities across agencies. 

“This hub not only enhances safety but also reinforces our shared commitment to community,” says GTPD Chief Robert Connolly. “Its presence in Tech Square provides visibility, instills confidence, and serves as a deterrent to criminal activity.” 

The facility was designed to serve multiple purposes: 

• Community engagement – Hosting public meetings to foster open dialogue. 

• Training – Delivering specialized sessions to better equip officers. 

• Public safety outreach – Educating residents, visitors, and businesses on crime prevention and emergency preparedness. 

In addition to its outreach functions, the hub will operate as a secondary surveillance center, integrating real-time camera feeds from Georgia Tech’s campus and surrounding Midtown areas. This capability allows law enforcement to closely monitor high-traffic and high-theft zones, ensuring a safer and more welcoming environment for students, faculty, residents, and visitors alike. 

The hub will also feature an air patrol program utilizing drones, giving GTPD the ability to monitor large areas quickly and efficiently from above. The drones will enhance GTPD’s situational awareness during emergencies, special events, and active investigations by providing real-time video feeds to officers on the ground and inside the hub. This aerial capability will be particularly valuable in hard-to-reach areas, during large crowd gatherings, or when immediate response is required. The drone patrols will complement existing surveillance systems, adding a new layer of coverage and deterrence to improve overall campus and community safety. 

The project reflects GTPD’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing safety both on campus and in the wider community. By combining resources and expanding outreach, the Security Hub embodies a broader culture of vigilance, compassion, and shared responsibility. 

For space booking or collaboration requests, please contact Outreach@police.gatech.edu 

The Office of Information Technology at Georgia Tech will host the 2025 Southeastern Cyber Cup, a virtual hackathon competition for participants with interests in IT and cybersecurity. Registration is open to students and professionals at any higher education institution in Georgia, beginning Sept. 17. 

Now in its third iteration, the Southeastern Cyber Cup has novice and experienced-level teams compete in a series of “capture the flag” tasks — technical challenges that simulate real-world cyber scenarios. Participants vie to earn points by identifying hidden flags embedded in each task, with scores tracked live on a digital leaderboard.  

Novice and experienced teams will compete on Oct. 10 and 17. Experienced teams will also compete in a final round on Oct. 24. Teams with the highest scores at the end of their respective rounds will be crowned the winners.  

Players and non-players are also invited to attend the Southeastern Cyber Cub Mini Conference on Oct. 24. The virtual conference will feature cybersecurity-expert panel discussions and a keynote speaker.

“The Cyber Cup is more than a competition — it’s a platform for learning, collaboration, and innovation,” said Joe Lewis, chief information security officer at Georgia Tech. “We’re excited to bring together a diverse community of tech enthusiasts from across the state to sharpen their skills and tackle common cybersecurity challenges.” 

The Cyber Cup will host two optional virtual boot camps before the competition begins, Sept. 19 and 26. The boot camps will help novice and experienced players brush up on skills and learn tools and techniques for competing in the event. 

The 2024 Southeastern Cyber Cup drew nearly 100 participants from 10 institutions across Georgia, including Augusta University, Emory University, and Georgia State University.

To learn more about the Southeastern Cyber Cup, visit oit.gatech.edu/cybercup/2025.

Participating in TAP and STRAP not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also demonstrates the Institute's commitment to your growth and success. By investing in your education, you contribute to the overall excellence and innovation within our community.    

The application period for the spring semester is Oct. 15 – Nov. 15.    

The Administrative Services Center has compiled comprehensive resources to guide you through the application and approval process. We invite you to join an upcoming information session to learn more about how to apply for TAP or STRAP and how to approve applications as a manager.  

Click the links below to register for an upcoming session. Additional information on this employee benefit can be found here. 

Education Assistance Info Session: Applying for TAP and STRAP  

• Tuesday, Sept. 23, 10 – 11 a.m. (Register Here) 

• Thursday, Sept. 25, 3 – 4 p.m. (Register Here) 

Education Assistance: Approving TAP and STRAP (managers and supervisors)  

• Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2 – 3 p.m. (Register Here) 

• Thursday, Oct. 2, 11 a.m. – noon (Register Here) 

The ombuds can help you: 

• Clarify issues and explore ways to resolve them. 

• Improve communication with others. 

• Identify and evaluate options. 

• Understand relevant Institute policies and processes. 

• Prepare for difficult conversations. 

As a neutral and confidential resource, the ombuds does not take sides or make formal decisions. Instead, they advocate for fairness, helping individuals feel heard and empowered to act, while also supporting the Institute by reducing conflict, improving engagement, and surfacing systemic concerns. All communication with the ombuds is kept confidential except in limited circumstances when legal or imminent safety concerns require disclosure.   

“I am passionate about this work because I get to help people find paths forward that improve their mental health, professional relationships, and overall success,” said Georgia Tech Ombuds Dona Yarbrough. “At the same time, the Institute benefits through reduced conflict, improved communication, and more informed decision-making. Research has also shown that ombuds programs help organizations save money by avoiding the costs associated with unresolved workplace conflict; miscommunication; and student, faculty, and staff disengagement.” 

The Office of the Ombuds is available to all members of the Georgia Tech community. It is not part of any formal grievance process, and contacting the office does not trigger an investigation. Instead, it offers an opportunity for off-the-record conversation, reflection, and consultation.  

To learn more, including how to schedule a confidential appointment, visit gatech.edu/ombuds. 

“This leadership role for Real Estate Development supports the Institute’s contributions to economic development, innovation, and commercialization,” said Tricia Chastain, executive vice president for Administration and Finance. “We are grateful to Tony for his vision and leadership which have helped set the stage for Tech’s future growth.” 

Zivalich began working with Georgia Tech in 1998, and, since then, he has provided the leadership for and oversight of multiple high-profile real estate developments that have advanced the Institute’s mission and strategic plan. These innovative projects include Technology Square, The CODA Building and High Performance Computing Center, The Interlock in West Midtown, Cobb County Research Campuses for the Georgia Tech Research Institute, and the rapidly expanding Science Square district. 

Adrian McCord will continue to serve as interim AVP for the Office of Real Estate Development until a successor is announced. A search committee is in place, with Jennifer Bentson, interim deputy chief business officer, serving as chair. 

More information will be shared as it becomes available.

“We are thankful to the Board of Regents and the state of Georgia for their support of higher education and Georgia Tech,” said Tricia Chastain, executive vice president for Administration and Finance (A&F). “While this funding positions us to continue advancing our mission, we are entering FY26 with a fiscally cautious mindset given the uncertainties at the federal level and how those may affect our funding — especially our research enterprise.” 

In total, Georgia Tech is projecting $57.2 million in new allocable funding on account of increases in state appropriations, undergraduate enrollment, and tuition. Due to the need to reserve funds to safeguard against unexpected shortfalls in revenue, the Institute’s executive leadership team has made the challenging but necessary decision to centrally reserve a significant portion of this new revenue to allow for adaptive financial planning throughout the year. In alignment with Tech’s commitment to student success and institutional priorities, limited funding was released to support strategic growth, with a focus on instruction and infrastructure.  

The Institute has allocated $2.1million to support a limited merit pay program being implemented systemwide by the USG for the September payroll. This program is designed to recognize many high-performing faculty and staff, with eligibility limited to 15% of employees and pay increases of no more than 4%. Unit leaders will notify eligible recipients this month. More information is available on the Georgia Tech Human Resources website.   

Looking ahead, the campus community is invited to attend A&F Connects (formerly known as A&F Town Hall) on Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 2 to 3 p.m., to learn more about Georgia Tech’s FY26 budget, federal funding sensitivities, and the USG’s Merit Pay Program. This will be a hybrid event, and more information will be shared closer to the date.  

This event is open to all graduate and undergraduate students who need to complete their in-person onboarding documents and I-9 verification requirements (e.g., Form I-9 verification and notarized Georgia Security Questionnaire). Original and unexpired documentation to prove eligibility to work in the United States must be provided during the event. A list of acceptable original and unexpired documents can be found here. Students should plan to attend if one of the following scenarios applies:   

• They have been hired at Georgia Tech for the first time. 

• They have not worked, logged time, or received a paycheck at Georgia Tech for the past two years. 

• They have previously been employed at Georgia Tech as a different employee type. 

Need to Complete I-9 Verification but Cannot Attend This Event?  
Student employees may also complete their in-person onboarding requirements at 755 Marietta Street prior to or following the event. Visit the  Onboarding Documents and I-9 Verification webpage for more information. 

Already Completed the Onboarding Documents and I-9 Verification Process?  
Great! Student employees who have completed an onboarding appointment do not need to attend the Student Employee Onboarding event.    

Other Important Notes  
Student employees should complete their online onboarding documents before their in-person I-9 verification appointment. Step-by-step instructions to complete this process are available on the Georgia Tech Human Resources’ Student Onboarding webpage. This event is not an opportunity for students to find a campus job.  

Hiring managers and their hiring support staff are encouraged to familiarize themselves with new and helpful resources designed to promote a seamless experience. Learn more here.     
 

Questions? 

• Call the ASC at 404.385.1111. 

• Email the ASC at support@asc.gatech.edu. 

• For student employment eligibility inquiries, email Georgia Tech Human Resources Student Employment at student-employment@gatech.edu. 

• For information about the Onboarding Documents and I-9 Verification Process, visit the ASC website. 

Lewis brings more than two decades of cybersecurity leadership experience across federal, defense, and private-sector organizations. He most recently served as vice president of Cybersecurity Solutions for Leidos - Health and Civil sector, a defense, aviation, information technology, and biomedical research company, and interim CISO for its subsidiary Leidos QTC Health Services. Prior to his time with Leidos, Lewis served as CISO and director of the Cybersecurity Program Office at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he led enterprise-wide security initiatives.

Lewis will report directly to Leo Howell, vice president for Information Technology and chief information officer.

“Joseph is a proven leader in cybersecurity strategy and risk management, and I am pleased he is joining Georgia Tech,” Howell said. “His deep expertise will be instrumental in strengthening the Institute’s information security posture while supporting its mission of innovation and research.”

Prior to his role at the CDC, Lewis held senior cybersecurity positions with the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of the Army, one of three military departments within the Department of Defense.

Lewis holds a Ph.D. in cybersecurity leadership, an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in business information systems, and an executive master’s in public service and administration. He also earned a Chief Information Security Officer certificate from Carnegie Mellon University. 

Lewis is also a certified information systems security manager, information systems security professional, and project management professional.

In his new role at Georgia Tech, Lewis will provide leadership for Institute-wide information security and risk management to ensure that data and other information assets are adequately protected.

As part of the senior leadership team in the Office of Information Technology, Lewis will also be responsible for maintaining cybersecurity practices and leading the Cyber Security team, which manages the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Institute information assets and cybersecurity-related compliance.

In response to the implementation of House Bill 113, which grants the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) the authority to maintain a list of prohibited technology suppliers, DOAS has been advised that Lenovo has been deemed a prohibited supplier. For additional information, refer to the Prohibited Software & Services (SS-22-002) | Enterprise Policies, Standards, and Guidelines. 

Effective July 1, no new purchases of Lenovo products may be processed, regardless of the purchasing method or vendor. This includes purchases made directly through Lenovo as well as through third-party resellers or other procurement channels. Any existing purchases that have already been made may move forward as planned.  

As research becomes increasingly data-intensive, many researchers encounter challenges that exceed the capabilities of personal devices. From hardware instability, stalled workflows, and unfamiliar programming environments which can slow progress, PACE addresses these obstacles through a combination of powerful infrastructure and accessible support. The center offers access to advanced CPU and GPU clusters, large memory machines, and disk space designed to meet the demands of intensive computing. PACE currently operates five major computing clusters, including Phoenix, the Institute’s largest research system. Phoenix hosts more than 1,200 CPU nodes and 400 GPU nodes and was ranked among the world’s Top 500 supercomputers in 2020.  

PACE’s impact extends beyond research. They also manage the Instructional Computing Environment (ICE), a teaching-focused cluster used by over 80 academic courses in Spring 2025 to introduce students to hands-on HPC concepts. Originally started in partnership with the College of Computing, it has recently expanded with the introduction of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Makerspace thanks to the College of Engineering. This Makerspace provides access to powerful GPU hardware, AI training datasets, and tools that enhance teaching and education.  

In 2024, PACE collaborated with Jacqueline Garner, a professor in the Scheller College of Business, to explore how PACE resources could help transform their research. Dr. Garner, a financial analyst and sports enthusiast, uses real-world data such as stock market performance and sports statistics to teach financial modeling. During their collaboration, PACE helped transition Dr. Garner’s research workflows to the Phoenix cluster and integrate ICE into her instructional materials. PACE staff also supported her teaching assistants and helped onboard students for the Summer 2025 semester. 

“The shift allowed her students to run larger, more complex analyses,” said Dr. Rachel Lombardi, Research Scientist II for OIT PACE. “Dr. Garner’s enthusiasm for PACE resources and the opportunities they provide to her students is contagious. It’s been exciting to watch her adopt high-performance computing and extend that experience to her students.” 

To continue to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence and machine learning, PACE recently released an end-to-end large language model (LLM) training pipeline through Open OnDemand. This web-based platform allows users to launch GPU-enabled workflows directly from a browser, making advanced computing more accessible to users. 

The PACE team offers weekly no-cost consultation hours, targeted workshops, one-on-one user support, and comprehensive documentation to help users get the most from PACE resources. Upcoming initiatives include investing in next-generation processors optimized for AI, deploying new high-performance storage hardware that uses advanced data deduplication and compression technologies, and redesigning training materials to improve the user experience. The team also plans to refine the credit and account management system and expand student opportunities in high-performance computing. 

“We aim to support all of our users, from large international collaborations to the first-year undergraduate just beginning their computational journey,” said Lombardi. 

From leading course instruction, developing research labs, or exploring data-driven research, PACE is ready to help researchers take the next step. Faculty, students, staff, and researchers interested in using PACE resources or learning HPC concepts are encouraged to take advantage of PACE’s weekly consultation sessions and monthly orientation workshops. 

To learn more, visit pace.gatech.edu

Effective immediately, two updates to Georgia Tech’s travel policies have been implemented to strengthen compliance, improve accountability, and align Institute operations with state and internal audit requirements.  

These measures will remain in effect while a comprehensive policy review is underway.   

1. Mandatory Use of Travel Inc. for Airfare Bookings (Air Transportation Policy 6.6) 

All campus units are now required to book airfare through Travel Inc., Georgia Tech’s contracted travel management company, regardless of the funding source. 

This change addresses audit findings and ensures compliance with the University System of Georgia (USG) Business Procedures Manual. Other benefits of this requirement include: 

• Compliance with Georgia Tech, State Accounting Office (SAO) and USG travel policies. 

• Access to exclusive airfare discounts. 

• Improved audit readiness and risk management through traceable bookings.  

Booking Process and Requirements 

To book air travel, employees must request access to Concur, Georgia Tech’s travel booking platform, by submitting the Concur Travel Access and Recurring Direct Bill Form, via Expenses ServiceNow. These changes apply Institute-wide across both academic and administrative units.  

Departments are responsible for managing travel arrangements for non-employee travelers, including students, guests, and visitors, who do not have access to Concur. To facilitate these bookings, the coordinating unit must complete the Single Trip Direct Bill Airfare Form.  

Payment Methods Available  

While the use of Travel Inc. is mandatory, direct billing is an optional payment method. Travelers may choose to use a personal credit card to earn reward points. Frequent flyer program information (e.g., Delta SkyMiles ID) should be added during booking to ensure that points are credited. 

This questionnaire is a required step for all Georgia Tech employees submitting spend authorizations and must be completed before travel. This document’s intent is to confirm that key travel policy requirements have been reviewed and appropriately addressed before any travel-related expenses are approved. 

The questionnaire must be completed by the traveler and cannot be submitted by a delegate. All questions must be fully answered and supported with the necessary documentation or justification. Completion of this step is required before a spend authorization can be submitted for approval. 

For questions or assistance, contact the Georgia Tech Travel Team via ServiceNow – Expenses. 

All official air travel at Georgia Tech must be booked through Travel Inc., either online via Concur or by contacting Travel Inc. directly. This is now mandatory for all airfare bookings, regardless of funding source, to ensure compliance with two recent travel policy updates. 

 For first-time Concur users, employees must complete theConcur Travel Access and Recurring Direct Bill Form to be granted access. This form has two sections — one to request access to Concur, and another to request recurring Direct Bill. Fill out only the section that applies to you.  

Once access is granted, employees can log into Concur through TechWorks to book flights (using Direct Bill or a personal credit card), as well as hotels and rental cars (using their personal credit card). Direct Bill is currently only available for airfare.  

Travel Inc. can also be reached by phone at 770.291.5190, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., or 1.877.548.2996 after hours. Email requests for individual trips should go to travel.requests@travelinc.com, and group travel (10 or more individuals traveling to the same destination) to gtpcorporate@travelinc.com. 

For questions or additional support, please contact Travel and Expense Manager Xinia Richards or submit a ServiceNow - Expenses ticket. Visit Travel Resources for additional information. 

Georgia Tech’s selection as one of seventeen finalists highlights the Institute’s continued leadership in leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance learning and underscores its commitment to creating real-world solutions that empower students, faculty, and educators.

"It is an honor to be named a finalist in the Learning Impact Awards," said Ronnie Godshalk, associate dean of Learning Systems for the College of Lifetime Learning. "The College, in partnership with the Office of Information Technology (OIT) and early adopters across Georgia Tech, remains committed to validating learning outcomes and supporting learners throughout their educational and professional journeys. Digital credentialing is a key strategy in this effort."

“Georgia Tech's recognition as a finalist in the awards reflects the hard work and creativity of its faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to shaping the future of learning,” said Warren Goetzel, director of Academic Technology and Engagement for OIT and director of External and Faculty Engagement for the Center for 21st Century Universities. “It is also a reflection of our successful office partnerships that continually work to transform education through innovation." 

Voting for the Impact Learning Awards is open at 1edtech.org/li/awards/2025 and will close on Wednesday, June 4, at noon (EDT). Winners will be announced June 5 at the 2025 Learning Impact Conference in Indianapolis.

Update – June 6, 2025: Georgia Tech received an 'Honorable Mention' for its Learning Impact Awards project submission. 

Eligible Georgia Tech employees can apply for fall semester tuition assistance now through July 15.  

Full-time faculty and staff have the following options: 

1. Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides a tuition waiver to full-time, benefits-eligible employees who have worked for at least six months within the University System of Georgia.  

2. Staff Tuition Reimbursement Assistance Program (STRAP) provides partial tuition reimbursement at any accredited private institution. Employees are eligible for STRAP if they have worked for at least 12 months at Georgia Tech.  

Time worked in a temporary position does not count toward the eligibility requirement for either assistance program.  

Application Process 

1. Apply for school through the admissions office of the institution you plan to attend during their designated application dates. 

2. Open a TAP or STRAP application via the Administrative Services portal. 

3. List the courses you plan to take. If you are not sure, put your best guess (you can reach out via your application request to change it later). 

4. Submit your application. It will automatically route for approval. 

From Tuesday, May 20, to Friday, May 23, the Georgia Tech Police Department will close Fowler Street between Sixth and 10th streets daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to accommodate graduates and guests. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes through campus during the road closures. Additional congestion is likely to occur around designated parking decks.    

Contis, who joined Georgia Tech in 1999 as a research engineer in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, has served in several senior leadership roles across the Institute’s IT landscape. His past positions include chief information security officer, associate vice president for Data Strategy and Analytics, and director of Technology Services. 

In his current role, Contis has led strategic efforts to advance academic and research technology at Georgia Tech – with a focus on expanding access to high-performance computing resources and fostering collaboration between central IT and academic units. 

Among key accomplishments, Contis helped launch Georgia Tech’s first GPU-enabled virtual computer lab, secured grant funding from Cisco Systems to develop a hands-on cybersecurity lab, and supported the creation of a federated private academic cloud to enhance research and instructional capabilities. He also played a central role in the development of the AI Makerspace initiative in the College of Engineering, aimed at empowering faculty and students to explore artificial intelligence in instruction and experimentation. 

“Didier has been a driving force behind some of the most innovative and impactful academic technology initiatives at Georgia Tech,” said Leo Howell, vice president for Information Technology and chief information officer. “His leadership has helped elevate our approach to research computing and academic innovation, and we are proud to see him take on this prestigious new role at UW–Madison.” 

Contis holds a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Tech and a Diplôme d’Ingénieur from the École des Mines de Nantes in France. He has also contributed to national research efforts, serving as a co-principal investigator on a National Science Foundation project and co-authoring an EDUCAUSE white paper on privacy and ethics in extended reality environments. 

Georgia Tech will announce interim leadership for the Academic and Research Technology office in the coming days.

As a leading higher education institution, Georgia Tech has been at the forefront of AR and VR research and development. The Augmented Environments Lab has pioneered immersive digital experiences since 1998, focusing on applications that integrate physical environments with digital augmentation. Additionally, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) has been actively exploring XR technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and research, including partnerships with the Georgia Tech Library, the Center for 21st Century Universities, the Invention Studio @ Georgia Tech, and through efforts with faculty and student groups to explore immersive ER-based collaboration and co-design — the intersection of arts and XR. 

“Joining the VRARA reflects Georgia Tech's commitment to driving innovation and supporting lifetime learners,” said Didier Contis, executive director of OIT’s Academic Research Technologies. “Our collaboration with VRARA will enable us to leverage our expertise in AR, VR, and artificial intelligence to develop innovative solutions that benefit our students, researchers, and the broader community." 

Georgia Tech’s membership with the VRARA is also expected to bolster Atlanta's reputation as a hub for technological advancements and talent, aligning with the City of Atlanta’s dedication to attracting and retaining top professionals through initiatives that promote a diverse and skilled workforce. The collaboration is also poised to create new opportunities for research, development, and collaboration, further solidifying Atlanta’s position as a leader in the tech industry. 

“Georgia Tech is one of the world’s premier universities,” said Adam Kornuth, president of the VRARA Atlanta chapter. “We couldn’t be more excited about our continued collaboration to drive strategic impact through innovation in the Southeast — and beyond.” 

With over 50 chapters around the world, the VRARA boasts a network of more than 60,000 professionals and 4,000 organizations.  

For more information about the Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association, visit thevrara.com.

The 2025 Higher Education Data World (HEDW) Conference was hosted at Georgia Tech April 6 – 9, bringing together more than 300 higher education professionals dedicated to the sharing of knowledge management and best practices across colleges and universities from across the globe. Staff members from the Office of Information Technology Enterprise Applications and Data Integrations (EADI) team led efforts to organize and execute the conference.

The conference’s theme centered on data strategy, analytics, and innovation. More than 40 Georgia Tech staff members participated in the event, including the demonstration of 15 presentations that covered data modeling, AI, Workday, and integration strategies.  

EADI Director of Data Services, Nick Chaviano, and Associate Director of Data Services, Andre Goodman, led the initiative to bring the conference to Georgia Tech. “Bringing this year’s HEDW Conference to Georgia Tech was no small feat,” said Chaviano, who served as 2025 conference chair. "It required a year of planning, coordination, and dedication. The end-result was an engaging experience that highlighted the Institute’s commitment to data-informed decision making and its investment in enterprise-level data services.”

“Eight to nine years ago, we went to HEDW with the goals of becoming a best-in-class higher education institution for data and the desire to host one of its annual conferences,” added Katie Crawford, EADI executive director for Enterprise Services. "I’m proud to say we accomplished both.” 

Established in 2003, the HEDW is a network of professionals dedicated to promoting the sharing of knowledge and best practices regarding knowledge management across colleges and universities, including building data warehouses, developing institutional reporting strategies, and providing decision support. The organization boasts more than 2,000 members representing institutions from around the world. 

To learn more about the Higher Education Data World, visit hedw.org. 

“Currently, Georgia Tech receives more than $100 million per month in federal funding for research activities,” said Jennifer Bentson, associate vice president for Finance and Planning. “We actively plan for these types of situations, and the Institute is well-positioned in the short term. However, if there is a prolonged federal government shutdown, we would need to take measures to further preserve cash and maintain campus operations.”  

Coupled with the changing guidelines related to federal funding for research, leadership continues to monitor the developing situation and is ready to implement strategies to help ensure continuity in the event of a federal government shutdown. Mitigation strategies include monitoring cash balances, accelerating federal invoicing, and assessing the need to defer certain purchases, hiring, and non-essential travel.   

More information, including how specific federal agencies are affected, will be provided as the situation develops.  

Beginning Saturday, March 15, a planned outage for the campus chilled water distribution system will allow the current resiliency improvement project to test installations, continue with upgrades, and tie in the recently announced Curran Street Residence Hall. This spring break time frame leverages lower occupancy in campus buildings.  

“We appreciate the understanding and support from the campus community during this planned outage as we continue the work to improve our systems and build resiliency for the future." said Greg Spiro, executive director for Infrastructure. "While we have completed repairs associated with the chilled water failure that occurred in July, the work at Harrison Square is ongoing to address utility systems affected during the repair work in addition to the renovation needs of the D.M. Smith building.” 

The chilled water distribution system provides cool air to campus buildings and helps ensure the appropriate indoor temperatures for data centers to operate successfully, research labs to perform optimally, and the campus community to study, research, and work comfortably. 

A similar planned outage occurred during winter break. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will again monitor the project and provide updates as needed. Each building’s Continuity of Operations Plan will be on file with OEM, as these plans ensure that each building has an individual who knows what to do if problems arise.  

Information regarding this outage plan has been shared with campus building managers, and discussions with campus stakeholders have been ongoing since February.  

March 15 – March 21 affected buildings: 

• Klaus Advanced Computing Building 

• Cherry Emerson Building 

March 17 – 18 affected buildings: 

• Eighth Street Apartments 

• Woodruff North and South residence halls 

While not expected, this work may require a West Campus outage for one day — Monday, March 17. If such an event occurs, the following buildings would experience a disruption of service: 

• West Campus residence halls (see full list here) 

• West Village Dining 

• J. Allen Couch Building 

As of March 6, Shantay Bolton is stepping down from her role as executive vice president for Administration and Finance to pursue new opportunities that align with her long-term professional goals. 

Bolton has been with Georgia Tech since 2023 and has overseen major construction and infrastructure projects, improved administrative processes, implemented significant changes in Athletics finances, and developed a sustainable procurement guide. Beyond her administrative duties, Bolton has been an active leader in the Atlanta community and on campus, championing projects such as the Divine Nine Plaza and the Pathway of Progress. 

Kim Toatley, vice president for Finance and Planning, will serve as interim executive vice president for Administration and Finance while a national search is conducted for a permanent replacement. Bolton will serve as a senior advisor through March 31 to ensure a smooth transition. 

“Shantay Bolton’s leadership has driven meaningful progress in Georgia Tech’s infrastructure, financial operations, and administrative processes,” said President Ángel Cabrera. “Her impact will continue to benefit our campus and community for years to come, and we are grateful for her service to the Institute.” 

Programs to Help Grad Students Balance Family and Studies 

Graduate students can now apply for tuition assistance when enrolling their children at Georgia Tech’s on-campus child care facility, The Children's Campus @ Georgia Tech (TCC). TCC is managed by Bright Horizons Family Solutions and is conveniently located in graduate student housing. All Georgia Tech students and employees receive a 10% tuition discount at TCC. Graduate students can apply for tuition assistance by visiting this link. 

In addition, graduate students who do not have their children enrolled at TCC can now take advantage of the newly expanded “Parents Night Out” (PNO) program. This initiative, previously only available to enrolled families, allows graduate students to drop off their children for supervised care twice per semester on Friday evenings from 6 – 9 p.m. at a low rate. One graduate student shared how transformative this has been, saying, “PNO was the first time I had been able to go on an actual date with my wife in three years!” 

Expanding Awareness of Campus Discounts and Perks 

Beyond tuition assistance, Georgia Tech offers a wealth of discounts and benefits designed to support graduate students. In partnership with Auxiliary Services, Graduate Education has compiled a list of several perks graduate students can take advantage of. On this list, students will find benefits that support various areas of their campus life and well-being. For example, Campus Recreation offers membership discounts for spouses/partners and plus ones making it easier for graduate students and their families to stay active and engaged. To access this perk and more, visit this link.  

A Commitment to Supporting Graduate Students 

With these resources, Georgia Tech is reinforcing its dedication to making campus life more accessible and affordable for its graduate student community.  

For a comprehensive list of campus events, visit calendar.gatech.edu.  

View parking information for athletic events from Georgia Tech Athletics.

Enhancing Real-Time Emergency Response  

In December 2024, GTPD's Emergency Communications Center introduced real-time data sharing with first responders, enabling both text messaging and live video streaming from a caller's mobile device. When a call is received, dispatchers can send an invitation to the caller, allowing them to share their live video feed and precise location. This feature is entirely permission-based — a caller must actively opt in, and the system does not track the caller’s location beyond the active emergency call.   

"The safety and security of our campus community is our top priority," says GTPD Chief Robert Connolly. "This new technology enhances location accuracy and reduces response time, ensuring that our first responders can act quickly and efficiently."   

Future Enhancements: A Smarter, Faster System  

This milestone is just the beginning of GTPD’s commitment to technological innovation. Future upgrades to the 911 Emergency Communications Center, scheduled for late April, will include the following enhancements.  

A campus perimeter geofence that will ensure any emergency call made on the Georgia Tech campus is automatically routed to GTPD’s 911 center, eliminating delays caused by call transfers. Currently, 911 emergency calls placed on campus from cellphones are often rerouted through the City of Atlanta's 911 call center, leading to response time delays. With this direct communication channel, GTPD can provide immediate assistance, streamlining emergency response efforts.  

A new two-way translation technology that will enable the call-taker to communicate verbally with non-English-speaking callers in their native language. Currently, non-English-speaking callers are assisted through a language line. This new AI-enabled technology eliminates the need for callers to be transferred to the language line — further reducing the response time of first responders. 

“With these latest advancements, GTPD’s Emergency Communications Team will continue to solidify its position as a leader in university public safety,” Connolly said.  “These achievements are a first for any University System of Georgia institution and serve as a model for others looking to enhance their emergency response capabilities.“ 

As technology continues to evolve, GTPD remains dedicated to leveraging innovative solutions to ensure the safety of the Georgia Tech community — pioneering advancements that set a precedent for public safety agencies across the nation.  

Georgia Tech has long been recognized as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution, an honor awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation to colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in campus forest management and community engagement. To achieve this designation, Georgia Tech meets five core standards: maintaining a campus tree advisory committee, developing a campus tree care plan, dedicating annual expenditures toward tree maintenance and planting, holding Arbor Day observances, and engaging students in tree-related service-learning projects. 

This designation reflects Georgia Tech’s dedication to preserving and expanding its tree canopy, which currently consists of over 15,000 trees spread across its 400-acre campus. These trees provide critical ecological and aesthetic benefits, enhancing the university’s urban environment while supporting biodiversity and sustainability goals. 

Expanding the Campus Tree Canopy 

Georgia Tech is actively working to increase its tree canopy coverage, aligning with broader sustainability goals that emphasize environmental resilience and carbon sequestration. In 2024, 45 new trees were added to the campus landscape. Expanding the campus tree population helps mitigate the effects of urban heat islands, improves air quality, and supports local wildlife habitats. 

One of the primary reasons for increasing tree canopy is carbon sequestration—the process by which trees absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This natural process plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas levels and combating climate change. Additionally, an expanded canopy provides essential shade along Georgia Tech’s extensive network of pedestrian walkways, creating a more comfortable and sustainable environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. 

Student Initiatives: Fruit Trees for a Sustainable Future 

Beyond its traditional tree-planting efforts, Georgia Tech is fostering innovative student-led initiatives to enhance campus greenery. One such project involves the introduction of fruit-bearing trees to provide an additional source of food for the campus community while promoting urban agriculture. These projects, led by students in collaboration with Campus Services and Infrastructure and Sustainability, aim to integrate edible landscaping into the campus environment, reducing food insecurity and strengthening community engagement.  

Ahead of Georgia Arbor Day, the Students Organizing for Sustainability Urban Ag project successfully planted 31 fruit-bearing trees and shrubs, marking the culmination of over a year of planning. Project leads are Nicole Allen (Biomedical Engineering, Spring 2025), Elaina (Lainey) Render (Civil Engineering, Spring 2025), and Isabella (Ella) Baker (Architecture, Spring 2025). The students participated in the LEAD (Leadership Education and Development, Student Engagement and Well-being) Teams for Tech program in Fall of 2023, which provided the funding for the project.  

The event was enriched by the participation of Chabad Georgia Tech, who joined in celebration of Tu Bi’shvat. Upcoming tree plantings include two Fringe Trees near the Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience and a Witchhazel near Kendeda, further enhancing the campus's green spaces. 

By strategically planting fruit trees such as blueberries, blackberries, and pawpaws, students are not only diversifying the campus’s plant life but also contributing to a more resilient and self-sustaining ecosystem. These efforts align with Georgia Tech’s broader sustainability commitments and reinforce the university’s role as a leader in innovative environmental solutions. 

Looking Ahead: A Greener Georgia Tech 

As Georgia Tech celebrated Georgia Arbor Day, the institution reaffirmed its dedication to tree conservation and sustainable campus planning. Through continued efforts to expand the tree canopy, enhance biodiversity, and support student-driven sustainability initiatives, Georgia Tech is ensuring that its urban landscape remains a thriving green space for generations to come. 

Beyond Arbor Day, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to take part in tree-planting activities, learn more about Georgia Tech’s green initiatives, and appreciate the invaluable role that trees play in shaping a healthier, more sustainable future. 

“During this time of exponential growth at Georgia Tech, it is clear that we need to keep a laser focus on the growing needs of our campus community while navigating the evolving real estate environment to achieve the priorities stated in the Institute’s updated strategic plan,” said Bolton. “Given Tony’s extensive experience in working with government and community leaders, developers, investors, corporate occupants, and campus partners, he will provide the advisement needed to move our real estate interests forward.” 

Since 1998, Zivalich has played an active role in advising, leading, and overseeing multiple high-profile developments that have advanced the Institute’s mission and strategic plan. These innovative projects include Technology Square, Coda and the High Performance Computing Center, The Interlock in West Midtown, Cobb County Research Campuses for the Georgia Tech Research Institute, and the rapidly expanding Science Square district.  

“I am honored to take on this new role and continue contributing to Georgia Tech’s growth and success,” said Zivalich. “I look forward to working closely with Shantay Bolton and the rest of the team to navigate the evolving real estate landscape and support the Institute’s strategic goals.” 

A search for a successor will launch immediately, and details about interim leadership for the Office of Real Estate Development will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Participating in TAP and STRAP not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also demonstrates the Institute's commitment to your growth and success. By investing in your education, you contribute to the overall excellence and innovation within our community.  

Education Assistance Info Session: Applying for TAP and STRAP 

• Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2 – 3 p.m. (Register Here) 

• Thursday, Feb. 20, 10 – 11 a.m.  (Register Here) 

 Education Assistance: Approving TAP and STRAP (managers and supervisors) 

• Tuesday, March 4, 10 – 11 a.m. (Register Here) 

• Thursday, March 6, 2 – 3 p.m. (Register Here) 

What Is Sustainable Procurement?  

Sustainable procurement is a forward-thinking purchasing approach that aims to create a circular economy — keeping materials in circulation for as long as possible while minimizing waste. By considering a product's full life cycle, from sourcing to disposal, and supporting local and certified suppliers, it fosters restorative supply chains that benefit the planet, society, and the economy. 

Aligned with Georgia Tech’s strategic plan, the guide reinforces the Institute’s role in leading by example through sustainable practices, showcasing how smarter procurement decisions can drive campus sustainability and reduce environmental impact.  

Key Features of the Guide 

• Product Life Cycle Assessment: Provides considerations to evaluate a product’s impact from creation to disposal, emphasizing durability, reusability, and recyclability. 

• Total Cost of Ownership: Highlights the hidden environmental and societal costs of products, encouraging purchases that conserve energy and water and minimize waste. 

• Packaging and Delivery Efficiency: Provides recommendations for consolidating deliveries and opting for minimal, recyclable packaging to reduce emissions and waste. 

• Certifications and Standards: Offers recommendations for sustainable certifications for appliances, electronics, cleaning products, lab supplies, furniture, and office materials, ensuring alignment with national and global sustainability standards. 

• Prioritizing Local Suppliers: Encourages sourcing from local businesses. 

How You Can Contribute 

Georgia Tech’s community members can advance sustainable procurement by: 

• Reducing unnecessary purchases and exploring reuse options. 

• Sharing strategies with peers to embed sustainability into daily operations. 

• Utilizing the guide’s resources to integrate sustainable practices into procurement decisions. 

By making sustainable purchasing decisions, we can collectively reduce our environmental impact, support our local economy, and strengthen Georgia Tech’s position as a leader in sustainability.  

Explore the Sustainable Procurement Guide here.  

“This compliance training equips Georgia Tech employees with the necessary knowledge and understanding of our responsibility to keep the Institute safe,” said Leo Howell, vice president for Information Technology and chief information officer. “This semester’s training specifically includes cybersecurity modules that focus on how to keep your accounts safe from compromise by cyberthreats, and generative AI awareness.” 

All faculty, staff, and students who are active employees as of Jan. 1 will be required to complete the 2025 Spring Biannual Compliance Training by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 28. The training will be available at https://b.gatech.edu/genius and will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.  

The training is mandated by the USG for all employees. “Training plays an important role in a well-rounded and effective compliance program. The active participation of our employees demonstrates a commitment to ethics and compliance across the Institute,” said Danette Joslyn-Gaul, general counsel and vice president for Ethics, Compliance, and Legal Affairs.   

Training can be completed on a desktop or laptop and does not need to be finished at one time. Employees who do not complete the training by the deadline may face disciplinary action by the Institute.   

Learn more about the 2025 Spring Biannual Compliance Training. 

Living Learning Campus Pathways 

Pathway 1: Data Requests 
Students, faculty, and staff can request campus data, including campus energy use and campus water consumption, for student projects and research. Data requests are available year-round. To date, Infrastructure and Sustainability has provided data for more than 200 requests. To request data, visit I&S Data Reporting & Analytics Request. 

Pathway 2: Project Partnership 
This pathway enables students, faculty, and staff to choose from a list of predetermined projects that advance campus sustainability and to work with staff members in Infrastructure and Sustainability. Current project offerings range from a campus LED lighting assessment to air quality monitoring. A list of available project topics for 2025 and the project application form can be found at Office of Sustainability | 2025 Living Campus Pathway 2 Projects. Projects can start as early as this semester. 

Pathway 3: Living Campus Student Fellowship 
Offers students a paid one to two-semester opportunity to work on a project advancing campus sustainability goals in partnership with the Office of Sustainability. The application for Fall 2025 will be open from Jan. 15 to March 14. Students interested in Pathway 3: Living Campus Student Fellowship should subscribe to communications from the Office of Sustainability for updates. 

For additional information about each pathway and the application processes, visit Living Learning Campus Pathways | Office of Sustainability. 

Automated Approval for ‘De Minimis’ Expense Reports  

Effective Jan. 1, Procurement and Business Services will automatically approve non-sponsor-funded expense reports of $500 or less, also known as "de minimis" reports. This streamlined approval process will not require changes to how campus users submit expense reports.    

Unit approval will still be required, and approvers must adhere to all relevant policies. Expense reports funded by grants or sponsored funds are excluded from this automation and will follow the existing approval process.   

Policy on Employee Travel Expense Reports   

Also, effective Jan. 1, employee travel expense reports submitted more than 60 calendar days after completing a trip or event will be classified as taxable income. This change aligns with compliance policies from Georgia Tech, the State Accounting Office, the USG, and the IRS.   

For questions or additional information on these updates, submit a ServiceNow request to Expenses.     

Resident Instruction 

• FD10000 - State Appropriations - Education and General 

• FD10500 - Tuition - Education and General 

• FD10600 - Other General - Education and General 

• FD50000 - Unexpended Plant 

• FD50200 - Unexpended Plant - GSFIC Non-MRR 

• FD50300 - Unexpended Plant - MRR   

Enterprise Innovation Institute (EI2) 

• FD1 1015 - State Appropriations - E12 

Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) 

• FD1 1021 - State Appropriations - GTRI 

For questions or additional information, submit a request via Service Now – Financial Accounting.  

The Georgia Tech Office of the Bursar, Office of Information Technology (OIT), and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid (OSFA) are warning students about cybertheft affecting student refund payments, including financial aid refunds.  

Across higher education, cybercriminals are using email phishing scams, malicious web links, and other techniques to gain access to student credentials, often resulting in unauthorized changes to their financial information stored on file with their college or university. This can lead to the theft of their financial aid refunds or other payments from their institution. Victims may not realize their accounts have been compromised until they receive unexpected bills or notice discrepancies. 

“As part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen our defenses against cyberthreats, OIT implemented stronger two-factor authentication (2FA) methods available to students, faculty, and staff at the Institute last summer,” said Jennifer Rhodes, Georgia Tech’s interim chief information security officer. “We encourage students to use 2FA methods such as Duo Mobile, YubiKeys, and passkeys to keep their accounts safe and to implement the use of 2FA as soon as they begin their enrollment.”  

Two-factor authentication resources for students can be found at oit.gatech.edu/two-factor-authentication.  

“It is also important that students periodically review their banking information saved on the student portal — including the full account, routing, or debit card numbers — saved for direct deposit,” said Georgia Tech Bursar Gloria Kobus. “Students should do so to ensure there have been no changes to the information that they did not approve.” 

Protect Your Accounts

The offices encourage students to also take the following steps to keep their accounts safe: 

1. Only check your Georgia Tech financial aid application status and awards through BuzzPort (buzzport.gatech.edu), OSCAR (oscar.gatech.edu), or by contacting OSFA (finaid.gatech.edu).  

2. To check Institute balances, make payments, or sign up for electronic student aid refunds, visit the Office of the Bursar’s Student Payments Instructions webpage. Regularly verify your personal information on file. 

This requirement applies to transactions by the employee or any business in which the employee, spouse, or dependent has more than a 25% interest. There is an exception for transactions less than $250 where the total of all transactions does not exceed $9,000 in the calendar year. If an employee has no business transactions to report, that employee doesn't need to file the State Business Transaction Disclosure Report. 

Disclosure reports are being filed through the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission’s legacy system, which is no longer accessible on their website. To file a report for 2024 business transactions, employees must contact Haley Barrett, director of Communications for the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission, at hbarrett@ethics.ga.gov or 470.355.6003 for assistance in completing the filing process or to answer any questions you may have. 

Definitions:   

Business Transactions: The sale or leasing of any personal property, real property, or services on behalf of oneself or any third party as an agency, broker, dealer, or representative. It also applies to the purchase of surplus real or personal property on behalf of oneself or any third party as an agency, broker, dealer, or representative. 

Any Business: Any corporation, partnership, proprietorship, firm, enterprise, franchise, association, organization, self-employed individual, trust, or other legal entity.  

“Currently, Georgia Tech receives more than $100 million per month of federal funding for research activities,” said Jennifer Bentson, associate vice president for Finance and Planning. “We actively plan for these types of situations, and the Institute is well-positioned in the short term. However, if there is a prolonged federal government shutdown, we would need to take measures to further preserve cash and maintain campus operations.” 

Leadership continues to monitor the situation and is ready to implement strategies to help ensure business continuity in the event of a federal government shutdown. Mitigation strategies include monitoring cash balances, accelerating federal invoicing, and assessing the need to defer major purchases and non-essential travel.  

No effects to Institute operations are expected during winter break when the campus is closed. More information, including how specific federal agencies are affected, will be provided as the situation develops and campus reopens. 

“We appreciate the understanding and support from the campus community during this planned outage as we continue the work to improve our systems and build resiliency for the future,” said Greg Spiro, executive director for Infrastructure.  

The chilled water distribution system provides cool air to campus buildings and helps ensure the appropriate indoor temperatures for data centers to operate successfully, research labs to perform as needed, and the campus community to study, research, and work comfortably. 

A similar planned outage occurred last December. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will again monitor the project and provide updates as needed. Each building’s Continuity of Operations Plan will be on file with OEM, as these plans ensure that each building has an individual who knows what to do if problems arise.  

The building list and a color-coded map of the outage plan have been shared with campus building managers. Discussions and preparations with campus stakeholders have been ongoing since October. 

• Buildings in red: Outage planned Dec. 14 – 30. (Outage to begin after Commencement.) 

• Buildings in blue: Not affected. 

• Buildings in purple: Temporary chillers. 

View the building list and map here.  

With the holiday season just around the corner, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) reminds the Georgia Tech community to stay alert for cyber risks as online shopping and digital transactions peak. The increase in seasonal shopping brings heightened cyber threats, including phishing, the rise of fake consumer websites, and other fraudulent techniques designed to trick unsuspecting buyers.  

“The holiday season’s increase in digital transactions presents a prime opportunity for cybercriminals,” said Jennifer Rhodes, Georgia Tech's chief information security officer. “From fake websites to phishing schemes, cybercriminals are working overtime. Shopping on secure sites, double-checking links, and using your instincts when deals seem suspicious are essential to protect your information during this busy season." 

To help you stay vigilant, OIT offers these holiday cyber-safety tips: 

• Shop smart and secure. Use only reputable websites you know and trust. Type the URL directly into your browser instead of clicking on links in emails or ads, especially for unfamiliar retailers. 
• Verify unfamiliar retailers. Some cyber attackers may try to trick consumers by creating malicious websites that appear to be legitimate. For unfamiliar retailers, review customer feedback and verify the legitimacy of contact information, such as a physical address and support number. Always verify the legitimacy before supplying your information.
• Be wary of emails requesting personal information. Attackers may attempt to gather information by sending emails requesting that you confirm purchase or account information. Legitimate businesses will not solicit this type of information through email. Do not provide sensitive information through email.
• Beware of scams and suspicious deals. Offers that seem too good to be true often are. Verify all deals and confirm package tracking links directly from trusted retailer websites. 
• Use a credit card, not a debit card, if possible. There are laws to limit your liability for fraudulent credit card charges, but you may not have the same level of protection for your debit cards. Remember to check your credit card and bank statements for fraudulent charges and immediately notify your bank or financial institution and local law enforcement if you discover fraud.  

Explore more holiday cybersecurity tips, and guidance from OIT to enhance your online safety year-round, at the Cybersecurity Awareness website.

The Travel Team will process travel expense reports on a first-come, first-served basis until final settlement, though reimbursement is not guaranteed for reports submitted after the deadline. Currently, there is a high volume of expense reports in “Draft” or “In Progress” status. Expense Preparers should assist employees in completing and submitting draft reports, while Managers/Cost Center Managers should promptly approve those in progress.

The Procurement Services Team will review and sign agreements on a first-come, first-served basis. Agreements should be free of errors upon submission to avoid delays. 

Campus users must submit a requisition with the agreement attached using the attachment category “signature needed.” This will ensure the requisitions route to Procurement regardless of dollar value.  

Users can also submit a request via ServiceNow for Hotel and Event bookings if the Georgia Tech Foundation will be paying for the event directly. 

• Final AP settlement run for checks: Thursday, Dec. 19.

• Final AP settlement run for Automated Clearing House and Electronic Funds Transfer payments: Friday, Dec. 20, at 12 p.m. 

• Wire transfer requests submission deadline: Thursday, Dec. 12, at 12 p.m. 

• Rush payment requests submission deadline: Thursday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m. (Please ensure supplier setup, complete backup documentation, correct work tags and spend categories, and appropriate approval in Service Now.) 

• All “pick up” checks must be picked up by Friday, Dec. 20, at 12 p.m. 

By adhering to these deadlines, you can help ensure that all necessary payments and settlements are completed in a timely manner. Normal processing will resume on Dec. 30.

Receipts must be entered or a change order initiated to clear invoices out of match exception. Campus users can identify problematic invoices by running the “Find Problem Invoices by Organization-CR” report in Workday. Invoices cannot be processed if receipts are not entered, the purchase order has insufficient funds, no purchase order was created, or if the purchase order (PO) is closed.  

Forward any pending invoices to apinvoices@gatech.edu with the Workday PO for timely processing. 

This maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) catalog offers over 700,000 industrial parts and supplies, with 98% of orders shipping from stock for same or next-day delivery. 

The MRO catalog includes a wide range of products such as abrading and polishing tools, measuring and inspecting equipment, electrical and lighting supplies, pipe, tubing, hose, hardware, sawing and cutting tools, and much more.  

For more information contact ServiceNow or the McMaster-Carr sales department at (404) 346-7000 or via email at  sales@mcmaster.com. 

UBI is income from a trade or business, whether or not it earns a profit, which is regularly conducted, and which is not substantially related to Georgia Tech’s exempt purposes. 

Examples of UBI include advertising, sales of merchandise, ticket sales for entertainment, commercial filming and photography, catering to outside organizations, and recreational memberships sold to non-students and non-employees. 

If you believe your unit may have unrelated business income, please complete this survey and return it to Senior Tax Compliance Manager Sarah Gamer by Friday, Nov. 8. 

Learn More 

All cost centers with 25 or above assets are required to use an Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Scanner for inventory unless special circumstances do not permit.  

A list of useful forms and information on loaner scanners have been provided to assist with the inventory process. It is important that all procedures are followed to report your cost center’s annual physical inventory in a timely and accurate manner.    

For the FY25 Annual Inventory to be considered complete, the following four (4) documents must be submitted to Property Control:

Departmental purchasers can now learn how to easily locate flagged invoices in Workday by accessing an online training course. This training is recommended for roles like Cost Center Manager, Driver Worktag Manager, Grant Budget Specialist, Grant Manager, Requisition Reviewer, and Faculty Support Coordinators, and more. 

A Knowledge Article is also available for additional support.  

As of Oct.7, AP will communicate invoice issues via the Activity Note in Workday, discontinuing the use of Perceptive Content (ImageNow/WebNow). 

View Training 

As of Sept.16, the Central PCard Office has deployed the “PCard Past Due Bot” to assist in communicating outstanding PCard transactions that have reached the 45-day limit.  

This bot is designed to send an email detailing all transactions that require action from the cardholder, along with a notice of potential PCard suspension if not completed. This email will come from the “GT No Reply” inbox. 

If you have any questions regarding the PCard Past Due transaction bot, please submit a ServiceNow ticket, and a member of the PCard team will contact you to assist.