About CIS

Owned by Cruz, Abel
Last updated: Nov 08, 2023 by Josh Kanehen
2 min read

What is CIS?

The Computer and Information Systems department is charged with shaping and implementing Seattle Pacific University’s enterprise technology strategy. By equipping the institution with powerful tools, we empower the SPU community to actively engage with the culture and drive positive change in the world.

CIS stewards the critical areas of business systems, enterprise software, servers and storage, network and telecommunications, and technology-related support to the SPU community.  CIS reports to the Office of the VP for Business and Finance.

Who is CIS?

Do you love technology and believe it can change lives? We do! We are a vibrant and imaginative team of IT professionals dedicated to serving the SPU faculty, staff, and student community. Our primary focus is on leveraging technology to enhance the academic and business functions of the university. In CIS, our dynamic teams utilize innovative thinking and their passion for technology to accomplish work that is both challenging and meaningful.

Meet the CIS Staff  •  /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36143560


CIS Mission

CIS will empower transformational educational experiences by strategically harnessing information technology, driving both student learning outcomes and operational efficiency through innovative leadership.

CIS Vision

Located in one of the nation's most innovative cities, CIS will help Seattle Pacific University create a technology-driven environment that prepares students for the future of work, while empowering, connecting, and supporting the entire community in the fulfillment of University's mission.

Department Structure

CIS Core Values

We aspire to hold these core values in the CIS work environment.  They should guide both how we interact with each other as well as how we interact with others inside and outside SPU. 

IMPACT
  • You seek what is best for SPU, rather than best for yourself or your group
  • You accomplish amazing amounts of impactful work
  • You demonstrate consistent strong performance so colleagues can rely upon you
  • You exhibit bias-toward-action and avoid analysis-paralysis
  • You make time to help colleagues, synergizing your work to achieve greater outcomes

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144041 & /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144027

COMMUNICATION
  • You listen well, instead of reacting fast, so you can better understand
  • Your communication is focused on the transfer of understanding
  • You are concise and articulate in speech and writing
  • You embrace differing perspectives in conversation to reveal more information to make better decisions
  • You treat people with respect independent of their status or disagreement with you

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144000

WISDOM

  • You make wise decisions despite ambiguity

  • You are broadly knowledgeable about information technology and higher-education
  • You look past symptoms to identify and treat root causes
  • You wisely separate what must be done well now vs. what can be improved later
  • You minimize complexity and pursue efficient and elegant solutions
  • You make tough decisions without excessive agonizing

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144051

INNOVATION
  • You embody continuous improvement by challenging prevailing assumptions and suggesting better approaches
  • You re-conceptualize issues to discover practical solutions to hard problems
  • You seek to understand our strategy, industry, and community
  • You contribute effectively outside of your area of expertise
  • You learn rapidly and eagerly
  • You take smart risks

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144049

TRANSPARENCY
  • You share information openly and proactively with all, unless sensitivity or security necessitate confidentiality
  • You strive to be unbiased and non-political when you disagree with others
  • You are known for candor and directness, avoiding ruinous empathy
  • You are quick to admit your mistakes
  • You are ego-less when searching for the best ideas

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144044

MISSION
  • You care intensely about SPU's success
  • You keep Christ in the center of your work
  • You approach work with a stewardship mindset
  • You inspire others with your thirst for excellence
  • You prioritize mission-centered outcomes
  • You question actions inconsistent with our values

Learn about /wiki/spaces/CIS/pages/36144060