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Higher ed IT isn’t just about technology—it’s about leadership, strategy, and navigating the unique challenges of institutional culture. And we’ve seen it all. Two retired Canadian Higher Ed CIOs—and CUCCIO CIO of the Year winners—Bo Wandschneider and Dana Sanderson—bring decades of experience tackling technology, governance, and innovation in Canadian universities. In Bytes of Experience: CIOs Unplugged, they cut through the noise to discuss real challenges, real solutions, and the realities of IT leadership. Expect deep insights, candid discussions, and plenty of humor—because IT isn’t always glamorous, but it’s always interesting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, join them for an unfiltered look at the digital evolution of higher ed IT.
Episodes
Monday Jan 12, 2026
Monday Jan 12, 2026
In this episode, Bo and Dana sit down with Marc Denoncourt to trace his path from campus CIO to board director — and why he pursued the Chartered Director designation. Marc explains how governance training reshaped his leadership approach, helping him frame technology as a business strategy, engage boards at the right altitude, and build trust through transparency and partnership.
The conversation digs into what boards really want to hear (strategy, finance, and risk), how CIOs can translate technical work into institutional outcomes, and why student‑focused digital services consistently capture board attention. Marc also shares cross‑sector lessons from aerospace, banking, and media, illustrating how technology becomes a competitive differentiator in every industry — including higher education.
Practical takeaways include treating cybersecurity as managed risk, using clear visuals to explain technical debt, elevating IT through dedicated board committees, and three actions for CIOs: be a business partner, lead cross‑institution efforts, and invest in governance training to strengthen board relationships and strategic influence.
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