What is RISE 2030?
RISE 2030 is Florida State University Information Technology Services' long-term strategic framework defining how we invest resources, deploy technology and support the university's evolving needs. The framework is built on four foundational pillars that guide every initiative we undertake.
Our mission: Strengthen FSU's digital environment, support institutional resilience, promote technological innovation and position the university to meet our campus community's evolving needs.
The Four Pillars of RISE 2030
RESEARCH • INNOVATION • SECURITY • ENGAGEMENT
Our operational model and future roadmap are built upon four fundamental pillars:
Research & Instruction
We support teaching, learning and research through the development and maintenance of reliable technological tools, platforms and services. We pursue innovative partnerships and connect our faculty, staff and students with reliable technology that empowers them to succeed.
Innovation & Modernization
We invest in emerging technologies and data-driven solutions, continuously modernizing our systems to improve efficiency, expand our capabilities and better serve the FSU community. We not only look toward the technological future; we strive to optimize the present.
Security & Compliance
We safeguard the university's data, systems and operations through proactive cybersecurity and risk management practices. By promoting compliance and accountability throughout our organization, we help maintain a secure, resilient and lawful institution.
Engagement & Student Success
We develop and maintain technology tools, systems and solutions that support student success and promote engagement across the FSU community. Our team provides innovative student-centered services that create a connected, thriving campus environment.
The ITS Strategic Alignment: Building a Unified Organization
In February 2024, Provost Jim Clark announced that different IT units across Florida State University would become aligned under the overarching Information Technology Services (ITS) team. This strategic alignment allows previously isolated units to collaborate directly, strengthen baseline support systems and dramatically enhance their collective ability to assist FSU faculty, staff and students.
Helmed by Chief Information Officer Jonathan Fozard, and thanks to the tireless efforts of team members across campus, the final departments officially completed alignment within ITS in May 2026. The RISE Initiative successfully brought 300 full-time IT professionals into the centralized ITS organization.
Today, our team is stronger, more productive and more unified than ever. Together, we are making FSU a secure, efficient and cost-effective environment for students to learn, faculty to teach and conduct groundbreaking research and staff to contribute and grow.
Six Strategic Focus Areas Through 2030
To achieve our RISE 2030 vision, ITS has identified six critical focus areas that will guide our strategic direction and resource allocation. By remaining focused on these priorities, we can continue driving innovation, strengthening our services and supporting FSU's success.
Organizational Architecture & Operating Model
Build a scalable, future-ready organizational framework that enables faster decision-making and clear accountability across distributed IT teams.
Next-Generation Digital Infrastructure
Deploy a modern, secure, cloud-first infrastructure supporting research growth, AI integrations and enterprise-level campus services.
Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies
Provide secure, responsible AI platforms and tools that accelerate operational productivity, enhance research competitiveness and improve student outcomes.
Strategic Technology Partnerships
Expand institutional capabilities through industry collaboration, reducing innovation costs and bringing enterprise-level technology to campus faster.
IT Portfolio Optimization & Shared Services
Execute portfolio rationalization and expand shared services to eliminate redundancy and redirect resources to high-impact university priorities.
Leadership in Higher Education Technology
Position FSU as a thought leader in higher education technology to strengthen our reputation, attract talent, secure funding and create research opportunities.
Latest RISE 2030 News & Updates
Strategic Initiatives
Understanding RISE 2030: A Framework for Technology Excellence
An in-depth guide to the four pillars and strategic focus areas shaping ITS through 2030.
Campus Announcements
ITS Strategic Alignment Reaches Completion
Final departments officially joined unified ITS organization, strengthening collaboration across campus.
Thought Leadership
FSU CIO Testifies on AI in Higher Education
Jonathan Fozard shares FSU's leadership perspective on responsible AI adoption in higher education.