Staff FYI News

Last week, it was announced that James Hazzard, director of information technology for University of Illinois Extension, will be leaving Extension for another position across campus. I am sharing the announcement with you here: 

Hazzard Announcement
Dr. James Hazzard has accepted the position of director for infrastructure and security with student affairs technology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He will begin his new position on April 22, 2025. Hazzard began his career at the U. of I. in 2000 when he joined the College of ACES as a network analyst. He was promoted to senior IT analyst in 2012 when he moved to Illinois Extension, where he further served as the manager of technology services (2016-2017) and ultimately as the director of IT (2018-2025). He has provided exceptional service to Illinois Extension for 13 years by building and expanding technology services, web development, and online learning teams, managing thousands of IT project requests, and coordinating Illinois Extension IT needs and services with the college and campus for long-term success. 

Hazzard has been instrumental in ensuring that Illinois Extension was at the forefront of software, hardware, and network needs by implementing a very successful equipment replacement program. He created a cybersecurity initiative for Illinois Extension, successfully led us through numerous web platform changes, updates, and upgrades, and prepared a widely circulated and referenced broadband position statement. A true problem solver, he always thoroughly researched IT issues, evaluated existing options, and explored future trends to arrive at the best decisions and practices for Illinois Extension. 

A believer in technology, he was an excellent Champion for the Technology and Discovery strategic priority and influenced the signature initiatives of digital literacy, equity, and accessibility. He encouraged the use of innovative digital tools and instruments and supported the development of online learning courses and curricula. Never afraid to explore emerging technologies, he prepared us for the age of artificial intelligence and sound uses of related AI programs. James attained a number of technical certifications and served on campus committees and working groups to ensure Extension’s technical edge was in place and to share advancements and opportunities with others. In his new position, Hazzard will be contributing to the student experience and shaping a digitally secure campus for everyone.

Hazzard shared, "It has been a privilege to serve with the great people at Illinois Extension and the College of ACES." In response, I believe that all of Extension understands what an honor it has been to have had James’ leadership, vision, and logic for so many years. It’s only fair that we share his talents with the broader university community. Please join me in congratulating Dr. Hazzard on his new position. We wish you the very best!” An interim director of IT will be named in the coming weeks. Please watch for subsequent announcements. 

Administrative Professionals Day
Also of note is that Administrative Professionals’ Day lands on Wednesday, April 23 this year. Gratitude goes to all of our administrative, business, and office professionals who bring their very best to the workplace every day and in every way. Thank you for your creativity, dedication, patience, and steadfastness. Thank you for serving members of our communities across the state and for supporting and uplifting University of Illinois Extension. We are stronger because of your commitment to our mission and because of your essential contributions to our collective work.