Michael Baggett

Background

About Michael Baggett

I am an accomplished IT leader with 27 years of experience in Higher Education, currently serving as the Assistant Dean and Director of Information Technology at the College of Visual Arts and Design, University of North Texas. I initially gained valuable insights and practical experience in the corporate and consulting environment, which I successfully leveraged when transitioning to higher education to introduce fresh perspectives and industry best practices into the academic setting. My approach to lifecycle management anticipates technological evolution, actively identifying resources that are losing relevance and utilization before they become obsolete. This strategic foresight allows the organization to innovate continuously, adapting to technological advancements, and avoid disruptive, hard shifts. My notable achievements include overseeing the technological implementation of a $40 million state-of-the-art Arts and Design facility, ensuring alignment with institutional goals while respecting diverse operational needs. Additionally, I led the creation of the Digital Fabrication Lab, a shared multidisciplinary resource providing sustainable access to cutting-edge technology, which opens new opportunities to a wide range of users across the organization. I consciously strive to expand my understanding and capabilities, to avoid becoming the ceiling that limits the organization. I reject rigid thinking and the paralysis often caused by Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt (FUD), and actively manage controllable factors, to elevate my organization amidst uncertainty when others are unable to seize the opportunities. I practice deference by actively engaging stakeholders transparently, valuing diverse perspectives to tailor solutions effectively within the complex academic environment. Actively engaging with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, I earned the EDUCAUSE Leadership Series Certificate on AI Policies and Ethics (2025), positioning my organization at the forefront of educational innovation. My leadership vision remains centered on collaboration, transparency, strategic adaptability, and a deep understanding that embracing diverse needs and fostering continuous learning are vital to driving institutional missions and enhancing student success. I thrive in dynamic environments, driving change through collaborative leadership, transparent communication, and an unwavering focus on improving service quality, efficiency, and user experience.