Philip Ponella, who has managed aspects of computer and audio-video technology in the College and at the Eastman School of Music, has been named director of Academic Technology Services for Information Technology Services (ITS) at the University of Rochester.
"Phil has proven to be a valuable member of our team in his past role as assistant director of Academic Technology Services and, since June, as interim director," said Amelia A. Tynan, University Vice Provost and Chief Information Officer. "His leadership has greatly contributed to our progress."
In the past year, Ponella directed the successful opening of the ITS Center, an integrated help desk just inside the Library Road entrance to Rush Rhees Library; an expanded back-to-school expo for incoming students; and other initiatives supporting College faculty and students.
As director of academic technology for ITS, Ponella coordinates the work of the Educational Technology Center, Instructional Computing Facilities, Classroom Technology Services, Desktop Support Services, Computer Sales and Service, Web Support, and the ITS Center. He also oversees all aspects of customer service in those areas.
Information Technology Services was formed in 1999 from five separate IT service providers and became a unified operation for the University community-from essential services in a computing and information environment to individual consulting and best-practice seminars.
Previously, Ponella was director of technology and music production at the Eastman School of Music where, in addition to leading technology efforts, he taught the graduate course in bibliography and information resources. He also served as chief of public services at the Sibley Music Library from July 1994 to January 1997.
He holds a bachelor of music degree and a master of music degree in clarinet performance from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford. He received his master's degree in library and information science from Southern Connecticut State University.