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Heading: The DoIT Monthly

Message from the IT Leadership Team

Headshots of IT Leadership at Chico State

Hello Wildcats!



From all of us in DoIT, we want to thank you for the opportunities you have given us to be your trusted technology partners throughout this year. Thank you for a great year! As we leave for winter break, we want to express our gratitude to each one of you for sharing aspects of technology services, support, and partnership this year with us. Our IT staff has provided comprehensive technical support to the campus community, including faculty, staff, and students. In addition to fostering partnerships and leveraging technology for positive impact in our Chico State community, we have been promoting connectivity and engagement with all of you and cultivating technological initiatives that moves our institution forward. It has been our privilege to serve our students, faculty, and staff. To all our students, considering the crucial role technology plays in your academic endeavors, please do not hesitate to seek help from Information Technology Support Services (ITSS) when needed. They will be available to assist you with any technology-related issues and can be reached by emailing itss@csuchico.edu, by calling (530) 898-4357, or in person by visiting MLIB 143.


From all of us in DoIT, may you find joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation in the company of loved ones during your time off. Whether you're traveling or enjoying a staycation, take the time to reflect on your achievements and recharge for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We look forward to seeing you return in the new year, ready for greater partnership with your IT department in whatever endeavors we can be of assistance.  


Wishing you all a restful and joyful winter break!



With gratitude,

Monique Sendze, Kathy Fernandez, Scott Claverie, Morgan Schmidt, Scott Kodai, Chris Witthans, Tricia Douthit, Teresa Miller, Yvonne Martini, Shannon Roskosky, Ashley Kaplan, Jeremy Olguin, and Steve Krok.

IT Leadership Team for the Division of Information Technology

Contact VP Sendze
Section title: Did You Know?
OneDrive application photo with a cartoon graphic of people working on laptops

You can turn your daily work into a seamless cloud experience with Microsoft OneDrive. By setting up a OneDrive folder on your computer and designating it as the default save location, you effortlessly sync your files to the cloud, making them accessible from any device with a web browser and internet connection. If your computer unfortunately gets damaged or lost, your work will already be securely stored in the cloud, waiting for you to continue where you left off on a different device. Enjoy the benefits of instant recovery, continuous backup, and a security blanket for your important files by setting up a OneDrive folder on your device today.

Read about how to setup a OneDrive folder in the Knowledge Base
a person walking away from a laptop left unattended on an airport lounge chair

Did you know securing your devices and information while traveling is as crucial as packing your passport? Here are some expert tips to keep your data safe on the go:


  1. Ensure all your devices and software are up-to-date. Software updates act as digital bodyguards, patching up vulnerabilities and staying ahead of cyber-attacks.
  2. Set strong, unique passcodes for your devices and activate a multifactor authentication (MFA) service such as Duo for your accounts. An extra layer of security that can make a difference if your credentials ever fall into the wrong hands.
  3. Do not leave your devices unattended in airports or public spaces. Remember, cyber threats do not take vacations.
  4. Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi. If you must connect, use a VPN or consider using your mobile hotspot for a more secure connection.
  5. Backup your data before you embark on your travels. In case of loss or theft, you won't lose your precious memories or critical work files.


Read more about international security tips here
A closeup of a person using a laptop with pop up notifications for the new version of Microsoft Teams

A new version of Microsoft Teams is now available to Chico State users ahead of the mandatory update scheduled by Microsoft in January. This upgraded version brings a myriad of benefits, ensuring an enhanced and efficient virtual learning environment for Chico State students, staff and faculty: 

  • Speed and Efficiency: The new Teams is designed to be twice as fast with lower memory usage, providing a seamless and responsive platform for virtual classes and collaborative projects. 
  • Modernized Interface: Experience an updated look and feel that aligns with contemporary design standards, fostering a more intuitive and engaging user experience. 
  • User-Friendly Channels: Teams channels now have a cleaner layout, facilitating improved organization and accessibility of information for both educators and students. 
  • Customizable Themes and Backgrounds: Personalize your Teams environment with customizable themes, colors, and backgrounds, allowing users to create a more personalized and visually appealing workspace. 
  • Notification Control: Tailor your notification preferences by choosing the location of notifications you want to see first, enhancing your ability to stay focused and informed. 


Chico State encourages users to explore these exciting features and customize their Microsoft Teams experience. Additionally, for Mac users, a quick restart of the app may be necessary the first time a user attempts screensharing during a meeting. The Division of IT looks forward to hearing your feedback as the campus begins to embrace the future of virtual collaboration with the new customizable Microsoft Teams interface.

Learn more about the new Microsoft Teams
The Grinch in a Santa Suit in a wintry landscape alongside a raindeer pulling a sleigh of presents

The holiday season is a festive and busy time of year, and cybercriminals eager to exploit the generosity and chaos of the season with their schemes. Below are top five holiday scams to watch out for: 


1. Package Delivery Scams: Cybercriminals send fraudulent messages or emails urging recipients to click on links for package updates. Instead of clicking fraudulent links that can expose devices to malware, verify details directly on the shipper's website or call a verified number to confirm.


2. Missed Package Scams: Missed package delivery slips with a phone number listed to call may be a scam to collect personal information. Always check for signs of fraud on the notice and verify through the official customer service number from the company's website.


3. Gift Card Scams: Scammers send fake emails or texts, often impersonating known individuals, requesting the purchase of gift cards for various reasons. Confirm such requests directly through a phone call to the person involved.


4. Social Media Scams: Fraudulent promotions or contests on social media platforms may offer gift cards or prizes in exchange for completing surveys or sharing posts. Stay cautious and verify the legitimacy of such offers, especially during the holidays.


5. “Brushing” Scams: Receiving random lightweight packages that you did not order may seem harmless, or even an act of good will, but it is possible that your account has been compromised and a scammer shipped you a poor quality item so they can write exaggerated fake reviews in your name. If this happens to you, report the incident to the marketplace (such as Amazon), and change your passwords if applicable. 


Stay vigilant, and do not hesitate to ask for help if you think you may have fallen victim to a holiday scam. Information Technology Support Services can be reached by calling (530) 898-4357 or by emailing itss@csuchico.edu.

Learn more about "brushing scams"
Section title: DoIT Around Campus
ITSS Director Yvonne Martini engaging with a student at Sense of Place

The Division of IT Adds to the Vibrant and Inclusive Learning Environment at Chico State's "Sense of Place" Event


Demonstrating a commitment to student success and technology equity, Information Technology Support Services (ITSS) Director Yvonne Martini recently volunteered her time and expertise at the first-year experience event, "Sense of Place." This initiative, designed to showcase the accomplishments of first-generation students, provides a platform for students to present their projects to Chico State staff and community members who volunteer their time to offer guidance and support.


First-generation students often face unique challenges as they navigate the complexities of higher education. By creating opportunities for them to share their projects and achievements, the university aims to build a supportive network that enhances their academic and personal growth. During the event, Martini engaged with students, listened to their presentations, and provided valuable insights into how technology can further enhance their projects and academic pursuits. Her participation in "Sense of Place" aligns with Chico State's strategic plan to empower student success and bridge the gap in technology access, providing students with the tools and resources they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.


A menu of videos from the TLP AI Training Series within Kaltura

Chico State's TLP Department Unveils 7 AI Workshop Videos to Propel Faculty Forward into the Application of AI in Higher Education


Chico State University's Technology and Learning Program (TLP) hosted an AI Training series this fall semester with the aim of introducing faculty members to the basics of AI and its applications in higher education. Recordings of these training sessions are now available to stream on Kaltura via media.csuchico.edu.


The AI Training Series facilitates a discussion about how to leverage AI in the classroom, and offers guidance on how to create assignments for students that allow them to practice AI prompt engineering. By doing so, faculty members can enhance the learning experience and prepare students for the broader global trend emphasizing the significance of AI in the workplace. According to industry experts, AI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of work in the next 5-10 years, as outlined below.


  1. Automation Revolution: AI is expected to automate routine tasks, allowing employees to focus on higher-order responsibilities that require critical thinking and creativity. 
  2. Skill Enhancement: The integration of AI in education equips students with the critical thinking skills necessary to create effective prompts while navigating an AI-driven workforce, reinforcing the importance of AI prompt engineering as an essential job skill. 
  3. Increased Efficiency: AI can streamline various processes, leading to increased efficiency and productivity across industries. 
  4. Job Evolution: While some jobs may be automated, the demand for individuals skilled in AI development, maintenance, and ethical implementation is expected to rise. 


Chico State's proactive approach in providing AI training for faculty members not only prepares them for the evolving educational landscape but also contributes to the university's commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in teaching. As the influence of AI continues to grow, institutions that embrace and integrate these technological advancements are better positioned to prepare their students for success in a dynamic workplace.

Check out the AI Training Series on Kaltura
Section title: Ask The Expert

How often should I turn off or restart my computer?


Microsoft releases software updates on the second Tuesday of each month at about 10 AM Pacific Standard Time. You should plan to shut down your computer on the Friday following Patch Tuesday, to allow software updates to fix any serious vulnerabilities within your system. Any software updates that are more time sensitive and critical will often roll out outside of the Patch Tuesday scheduled time frame. If you are ever unsure or have questions about a software update, you can reach out to Information Technology Support Services by calling (530) 898-4357 or emailing itss@csuchico.edu.

A photo of a laptop on a desk and a power button
Read more about when to restart your computer in our Knowledge Base

Is ITSS (Information Technology Support Services) still around to help me after finals week?


ITSS will remain open for the rest of the year during business hours and will be closed December 25-29 during the scheduled
campus closure. 


The intersession business hours will be: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday, on December 18 - Jan 12. The help desk hours will return to 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday starting on January 15, 2024.

Student leaving the ITSS lobby with a computer in hand
Get help from ITSS
Section title: DoIT Serving You

Gratitude Poll Reveals the Values and Lightheartedness from Chico State's Division of IT Staff 


In the spirit of giving, the Division of Information Technology (DoIT) at Chico State recently conducted a gratitude poll, inviting staff members to express what they are grateful for in just one or two words. The responses not only reflected the diverse interests of the DoIT team but also highlighted the collective sense of appreciation within the division.


Family takes the lead: A resounding 46% of DoIT staff expressed gratitude for "family" – a testament to the importance of loved ones in their lives. In a fast-paced and technology-driven environment, this response reinforces the significance of personal connections and support networks.


A word cloud depicting the results from the Division of IT gratitude poll

Beyond family, the survey unveiled additional themes that resonate with the DoIT team. "Health" emerged as a key focus, underscoring the value placed on well-being. "Friends" ranked high, emphasizing the camaraderie and teamwork that define the close-knit teams at Chico State. Not surprisingly, "nature" also featured prominently, indicating an appreciation for the scenic Chico State campus and the rejuvenating power of the natural world. In a field often associated with screens and digital landscapes, this response reveals a collective desire for balance and harmony with the environment. Beyond the expected responses, the gratitude poll brought forth a few surprises. Many staff members expressed their thanks for favorite foods, showcasing the diverse culinary interests within the team. From comfort foods to culinary adventures, this response added a touch of lightheartedness to the overall sentiment. In the mosaic of responses, the gratitude poll reflects the diverse personalities and interests that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Chico State's Division of IT.


Canvas logo with arrows pointing to logos of software applications that are integreated within Canvas LMS

Canvas Update: Students will login to Canvas using their Primary Chico State Email after December 22, 2023 


On December 22, the primary email domain for students in Canvas and integrated applications will transition from @mail.csuchico.edu to @csuchico.edu. The maintenance period has been scheduled during the break in between the Fall and Spring semesters to minimize disruption to campus. Users should expect brief disruption in visibility of student accounts during the 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM maintenance window on December 22. After this update, all Academic Technology applications will uniformly use @csuchico.edu, with the exception of Google, which will continue using @mail.csuchico.edu. The goal of the update is to continue the student mail migration that commenced in fall of 2022 in order to streamline how accounts are integrated into Canvas for an improved user experience. 


Information For Students: 

  1. Your Canvas primary email will be updated to @csuchico.edu. 
  2. Login adjustments may be required for integrated applications linked to Canvas, such as Zoom, Poll Everywhere, LinkedIn Learning, and Kaltura. 
  3. If you use Pronto, please sign in again using your @csuchico.edu email. 


For a full list of affected integrations and to address any concerns or immediate assistance needs, please contact learningtech@csuchico.edu. As the Division of IT makes this transition to improve the user experience for our students, your feedback is invaluable.

Learn more about the Canvas Primary Email Change for Students
Section title: Get to Know DoIT - Staff
Portrait of Jeff Humason

Meet Jeff Humason

Network Analyst for the department of Computing and Communications Services (CCSV)


I am a Network Analyst and I support Chico State’s Wireless Network. I am often found walking around campus with wireless analytical tools collecting and analyzing wireless data. I help support our networking team in offering a seamless user experience for upwards of 20,000 devices connecting to 1,500 Wireless Access Points. 


I started in the networking field about 25 years ago in Nome, Alaska. Before starting my career in computers, I raced for Schwinn as a semi-professional mountain biker. I won California State Championships for 3 years in a row, won a national downhill championship, and got on the national team representing the United States in the World Cup Championships. I lived and trained in Santa Barbara and Mammoth Lakes, California.



In 1996 I bicycle toured from Hong Kong to Bangkok riding through China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. I also lived in Prague and traveled extensively all over the Czech Republic and its neighboring countries of Germany, Austria, Poland, and Slovakia.  



I have a master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I had 3 children while in graduate school and we just had our 5th child, and our first girl.  


My family and I love the outdoors and we take every chance that we can to go camping and exploring. 

Portrait of Angela Bello

Meet Angela Bello

Administrative Support Coordinator for the department of Information Technology Administrative Support Center (IASC)


I joined IASC in October of 2021 as an Administrative Support Coordinator. My role involves overseeing student assistant employment for various departments and providing a full range of administrative services for IASC and DoIT.  

 

I was born and raised in Lima, Ohio (like the Lima Bean) which is a small town between Toledo and Dayton. In my mid-twenties I moved to CA to live with my twin sister and soon thereafter met my husband, Mike. In 2019 my husband and I relocated to Chico, California, following Mike’s career opportunity at Chico State as a Librarian. Prior to this move, we called the vibrant coastal town of Santa Cruz our home. 

 

I have a love for sewing, that I got from my grandmother who was a master seamstress. I also enjoy crafting, hiking, kayaking, and gardening. Living close to Upper Bidwell and Mt. Shasta allows us to embark on hiking adventures, exploring, and appreciating the natural wonders of California.  

 

Michael and I have a cat named Winston, a charismatic feline companion, who holds a special place in our hearts. As a cherished member of our family, Winston adds a touch of whimsy and warmth to our Chico home. 


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