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Arun Pasricha
CIO, Student Affairs at University of California, Los Angeles
Professional Background
Arun Pasricha is a highly accomplished technology executive recognized for his extensive contributions to student affairs and information technology in higher education. With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, Arun has seamlessly transitioned from engineering roles to senior leadership positions within the University of California system, particularly at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Throughout his impressive career at UCLA, Arun has held various pivotal roles, significantly advancing the university's IT landscape and enhancing the student experience through innovative technologies. As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Student Affairs, he leads strategic initiatives aimed at integrating technology into student services, fostering a more inclusive and efficient environment for students and staff alike. Previously, Arun served as the Senior Director of IT for Student Affairs, a role in which he spearheaded numerous technology-driven projects that improved operational efficiency and service delivery. His expertise in managing large-scale IT deployments and his ability to connect technology with educational outcomes have made him an invaluable asset to the campus community.
Before his notable tenure at UCLA, Arun's career path included key positions that showcased his technical prowess and commitment to education. His role as the Associate Registrar for Information Systems allowed him to leverage his analytical skills and establish systems that supported accurate record-keeping for students. Additionally, Arun was instrumental in managing the Distributed Technologies Team, where he ensured that faculty and students had access to cutting-edge technology to enhance their academic and administrative endeavors.
His prior experience also includes working as a Senior Program Analyst at UCLA, where he optimized departmental processes using technology and data analysis. Arun began his career in the technology sector as an Engineering Specialist with Northrop Grumman, focusing on systems engineering and analysis. This early experience laid a solid groundwork for his subsequent roles in academia.
Overall, Arun Pasricha's professional journey reflects a commitment to improving student outcomes through technology, a passion for innovation in education, and a strong belief in the power of collaboration across departments to achieve common goals.
Education and Achievements
Arun Pasricha’s academic background is equally impressive and reflects his dedication to engineering and education. He began his academic journey at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, where he earned his Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering, laying the groundwork for his future studies and career in engineering. Following his undergraduate education, Arun pursued a Master of Science (MS) in Mechanical Engineering at Tulane University, where he further honed his technical skills and knowledge.
Arun's scholarly pursuit didn’t stop there; he completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington. His doctoral research contributed significantly to the field, showcasing both his critical thinking and analytical capabilities. While in academia, he also developed a passion for leveraging technology to create better educational experiences for students, which he has carried into his professional work.
Before embarking on his higher education journey, Arun attended Kendriya Vidyalaya, a highly regarded educational institution in India known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on holistic education. This early schooling experience helped shape his commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning, values that have propelled him throughout his career.
Arun's comprehensive education and vast experience in mechanical engineering give him a unique perspective that enriches his contributions within the realm of higher education technology, making him a thought leader in integrating engineering principles with IT.
Achievements
Over the years, Arun has accumulated numerous achievements that underscore his capability and influence in the field of educational technology. He has successfully led the implementation of various IT systems that have transformed the operations of UCLA’s Student Affairs, positively impacting thousands of students. His focus on student-centric technology solutions has played a vital role in streamlining administrative processes and enhancing communication between students and the administration.
Moreover, Arun's leadership at UCLA has positioned the institution as a model for leveraging technology in higher education. He is recognized not only for his technical expertise but also for his capacity to build collaborative teams that prioritize innovation and service excellence. Through his work, Arun has established a culture of continuous improvement and responsiveness to the needs of students, ensuring that UCLA remains at the forefront of technology-driven educational environments.
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