University at Buffalo names University of Nebraska CIO as next tech chief

The University at Buffalo in New York announced Tuesday that Heath Tuttle, associate vice president for information technology at the University of Nebraska System, has been named the next chief information officer following a nationwide research launched five months ago.

Tuttle will leave his position at the University of Nebraska, where he also serves as CIO on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, to begin his new role in New York on August 1, according to a press release.

“Together, we will drive innovation and improve our technology infrastructure, ensuring it is accessible and inclusive for all,” Tuttle said in the release. “By leveraging strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technologies, we will advance the university’s mission and foster a vibrant, transformational technology ecosystem that empowers every member of our community.”

Within the University of Nebraska System, Tuttle was responsible for a digital transformation initiative that improved teaching and learning technologies, processes and support. He also played a role in developing the use of emerging technologies on the Lincoln campus, such as artificial intelligence.

“A strategic leader with extensive experience in higher education IT, Heath has a proven track record of aligning diverse technology goals into a cohesive vision focused on digital transformation, operational excellence, collaboration and accessibility,” University at Buffalo President Satish Tripathi said in the release. “I am confident that he will provide exemplary leadership that will build on our robust technology environment, elevate our computing practices, and advance our academic priorities and goals.”

Tuttle succeeds J. Brice Bible, who left the University at Buffalo in February to serve as CIO at the University of South Carolina. During the search for the Bible’s replacement, E. Bruce Pitman, a professor in the university’s Department of Materials Design and Innovation, served as interim CIO at the University at Buffalo, the release said.

In his new role, Tuttle will be responsible for advancing the university’s research and teaching while providing a “well-aligned, innovative and robust technology environment,” the release said.