Biography

Joel Larson is an experienced IT leader with a passion for building human-centered technology environments in higher education. As Director of IT Support and Network Services at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Joel oversees campus-wide infrastructure, end-user support, and network operations with a focus on operational excellence, cybersecurity, and service delivery.

With over two decades of experience in higher education IT — including leadership roles at the University of Washington in Advancement and UW Tacoma Engineering & Technology — Joel brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing decentralized IT environments. His research and professional interests include risk management practices, IT governance, shadow IT, and fostering collaborative solutions between central IT and academic units.

Joel holds a PhD in Information Technology with a research focus on shadow IT risk management practices within public research universities. He is passionate about mentorship, organizational storytelling, and the role of IT in shaping inclusive, resilient campus communities.