Dear Colleagues:
As we move further into the winter quarter, I would like to share a brief update on several key initiatives advancing UCLA’s digital priorities. Across governance, student support, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and AI, our focus remains on alignment, transparency, and operational stability.
Advancing One IT
In February, we launched the One IT Alignment Council (ITAC), a campuswide governance body. ITAC reviews university-funded technology purchases, software subscriptions, contractor engagements, and IT hiring decisions to ensure alignment, transparency, and responsible stewardship of resources throughout the One IT transition.
The One IT Working Groups have convened campus stakeholders to develop recommendations shaping a One IT operating model that balances specialized and shared services, strengthens our IT ecosystem, and supports a consistent digital experience. A common reporting framework was introduced to promote clarity and transparency. Recommendations will be iteratively shared with campus governance bodies throughout the summer.
Strengthening Financial Aid and Student Support
Preparation for the new aid year remains our top priority, with teams advancing system setup and refining processes to ensure readiness. Stabilization efforts are focused on improving system reliability and data accuracy. Through the Bruin Financial Aid Partners Forum and a more transparent change request process, we are strengthening cross campus coordination, clarifying roles and decision rights, and accelerating issue resolution.
Safeguarding Our Technology Environment
The team continues strengthening visibility and oversight of our cloud-based systems across campus, while tracking remaining units’ progress toward meeting required asset management compliance standards by the end of March. In parallel, we have begun planning the next set of prioritized security enhancements, Active Directory Assessment and Information Security Risk Management Program, with initial efforts launching in March to further protect UCLA’s technology environment.
Building a Unified Network
This month, the team delivered a Network Unification program update to more than 100 campus community members, outlining current status, next steps, and a refreshed website. Preparations continue on core infrastructure development, pilot readiness, and campus migration planning. The pilot phase is expected to formally begin next month, with initial meetings scheduled with pilot groups.
Elevating AI at UCLA
Following the recent Chief Data and AI Officer transition, I'm stepping in to co-chair the UCLA AI Governance Committee, and my leadership team will join me in overseeing UCLA’s AI strategy and governance to ensure continuity. UCLA remains actively engaged with the UC Systemwide AI Council and aligned with systemwide priorities. The committee continues to advance governance, literacy, and innovation initiatives, with year one objectives and the campuswide AI inventory on track. The AI Enabled Development pilot bringing together developers across campus to test leading AI coding approaches is nearing completion.
Advancing Campuswide Digital Accessibility
The Digital Accessibility Steering Committee continues to advance UCLA’s strategy through a community driven approach to governance and risk identification. All six Action Risk Teams are conducting structured, risk informed assessments due March 15. A unified governance website will serve as a central hub for policy guidance, implementation resources, tools, training, and support pathways.
Thank you for your continued partnership as we build a stronger digital foundation for UCLA grounded in thoughtful governance, shared accountability, and meaningful collaboration.
Best,
Lucy Avetisyan
Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Information Officer
