As the new Instructional Technology Education Program Manager for the Center for Instructional Technology (CIT), Juli Cook plays a pivotal role in shaping how faculty and students engage with digital learning tools. Overseeing the education and outreach team within CIT, Juli is responsible for organizing workshops and trainings that empower instructors to effectively use platforms like Blackboard Ultra, Panopto, and Respondus. These efforts ensure that both faculty and students are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of instructional technology with confidence and ease.
A typical day for Juli is anything but routine. From coordinating group trainings and one-on-one consultations to meeting with vendors and campus IT staff, Juli’s schedule is filled with opportunities to support faculty across the University. A significant focus recently has been the transition to Blackboard Ultra, a change that has been met with positive feedback, especially from students who appreciate its user-friendly design. Juli and the CIT team are dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition and addressing any concerns as they come up.
What sets Juli apart is a genuine passion for teaching and connecting with others. Having spent nearly a decade as a high school and middle school teacher in Alabama and Colorado, Juli brings a wealth of classroom experience to the role. This background fuels a love for training and outreach, allowing Juli to continue making an impact in education, even outside the traditional classroom setting. “I enjoy that part of the job, the training part of it, because it makes me feel like I’m teaching again,” she shared.
Outside of work, Juli is a dedicated mother to her two kids, balancing a busy schedule of sports practices and family activities. When time allows, Juli also enjoys exercising, whether it’s a walk, a run, or a quick workout at home, to recharge and clear the mind. Her commitment to both professional and personal well-being reflects the energy and care Juli brings to every aspect of life.
Above all, Juli wants the campus community to know that CIT is always ready to help. “We want everyone to know that we’re here for them,” she emphasized, encouraging faculty, staff, and students to reach out with questions or concerns. It’s this approachable, service-oriented mindset that makes Juli Cook a valued member of the OIT family.