Small Team, Big Results: URI’s Digital Campus Built to Evolve
Over the past six years, the University of Rhode Island has taken a steady, practical approach to building its digital campus. Starting with a strong foundation, a clear vision, and the flexibility to evolve with campus priorities, URI discovered that lasting success comes from continuous improvement—not one massive overhaul.
Join URI as they share their small team’s journey to transform Rhody Connect from a single digital initiative into a unified campus app and portal. Learn how they built a flexible foundation that adapts to changing priorities, supports new departments and services, and continues to evolve with the needs of the campus community.
Discover how URI built a digital campus designed to evolve:
- Unify Campus Systems: See how URI connected PeopleSoft, Brightspace, dining, events, communications, and other essential services into one trusted app and portal.
- Grow with Limited Resources: Learn how a small team prioritized high-impact projects, partnered across departments, and steadily expanded its digital experience.
- Build a Foundation That Evolves: See how URI's initial use cases became the building blocks for six years of continuous innovation.
- Small Changes, Big Impact: Explore how thoughtful personalization, targeted communications, and integrations created more relevant experiences for all users.
- Build for What's Next: See how URI is preparing for the future with deeper personalization, stronger use of institutional data, and AI-powered experiences.
About Your Hosts
Catherine White
IT Project Leader
University of Rhode Island
During a brief career in TV production, Cathy found herself being drawn to the green glow of the CRT and the creative art that is programming. Primarily self-taught and never shying from an opportunity to learn, Cathy has had a varied career in IT over the past 35 years, from mainframe programming at a Fortune 10 telecom company, to developing a database-driven CMS before WordPress popularized the DIY website, to accepting the challenge of implementing and managing a campus mobile app in her current position in the IT Innovation Group at URI.
Karen Lokey
Interim Director, IT Programs and Initiatives
University of Rhode Island
Karen's career in IT has taken her across a variety of industries, from pharmaceuticals and global technology services to K–8 education and higher education. Along the way, she discovered that her greatest interest lies at the intersection of people, technology, and organizational change. In her current role at the University of Rhode Island, she leads the IT Project Management Office and IT Innovation teams, helping the university navigate emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and strategic initiatives. A natural collaborator who enjoys connecting people and ideas, Karen is passionate about making technology more accessible, supporting others through change, and finding practical ways to turn innovative ideas into meaningful outcomes.
About Your Hosts
Phil Kirschner
Future of Work Expert, PK Consulting
Phil is a global thought leader with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of employee experience, corporate real estate, and technology strategy. He leverages data-driven insights to help organizations enhance productivity, talent retention, and engagement. Passionate about the future of work, Phil advocates for dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive workplaces that uplift human potential.
Adam Stoltz
Cofounder, Former AmLaw Workplace Experience Operations
Adam Stoltz is a corporate real estate and workplace experience leader with over 15 years of experience in strategy, operations, and employee services. He specializes in managing global portfolios, workplace strategy, and employee experiences, with expertise in occupancy management, vendor relations, wellness programs, and design and construction. Adam is passionate about creating efficient, engaging work environments that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.
Marc Grainger
Chief People Officer, Debevoise & Plimpton
Marc Grainger is an experienced HR leader with over 15 years in talent development, leadership, and diversity. As Chief People Officer at Debevoise & Plimpton, he leads strategic initiatives to drive culture, performance, and employee engagement. Previously, Marc spent over a decade at Credit Suisse, where he held global leadership roles in People Development and Diversity & Inclusion. He is an expert in shaping high-performing, inclusive workplaces.
Laurie Rothenberg
Global Real Estate & Workplace Strategy Lead Counsel, Pfizer
Laurie Rothenberg is a leader in Global Workplace and Corporate Real Estate Strategy with 17 years at Pfizer, specializing in shaping resilient, employee-centric workplaces. She has a proven track record in optimizing portfolio strategies, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and integrating ESG principles into real estate decisions. Laurie is passionate about creating inspiring workplaces that enhance employee engagement, operational efficiency, and organizational success.
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