黑料社

After nearly three decades of service to Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, Chief Information Officer Alex Cline is preparing for retirement, leaving behind a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the institution and its people.

Cline first joined IECC in 1996 as the district was undergoing significant changes. "When I started in 1996, the district had just completed a Communications Plan that identified significant needs for voice, data, and video communications," he said. "The first recommendation in the plan was to hire a communications director, which would become my new role."

At the same time, IECC was facing another looming challenge: the need for a new administrative software system. The existing system, originally developed for hotel management and modified for higher education, was not Y2K compliant. "Only some of us (older) people will understand the Y2K challenge," Cline said with a smile. "But that is another topic for discussion."

In his first three years, Cline helped lead a massive technological transformation. "We installed networking cabling and electronics throughout the district, implemented the Banner software system, and installed a new telephone system," he said. "Looking back, I鈥檓 not sure how we all survived all this change, but we made it through it and learned a lot."

Throughout his career, Cline found pride not only in technological achievements but also in the strength of the team he helped build. "We are fortunate to have great IT people," he said. "I am very proud that IECC has not had a cybersecurity breach during my tenure. Securing our systems is a constant challenge, and I credit the great work of our team for keeping us secure."

Cline has witnessed the technology landscape in higher education evolve rapidly over the years. "One thing I love about technology is that it is constantly changing, so there is no opportunity for boredom," he said. "However, constant change can be very frustrating as well. Trying to keep up with the changes can be very challenging, especially with the current pace of change."

As the demands on technology grew, so did the role of the CIO. "The CIO role has evolved into a more strategic one that oversees technology resources and innovation," Cline explained. "When I was hired, my position lived under the CFO, but as technology expanded through every aspect of the district, the CIO role moved under the Chancellor to ensure technology was considered in every major initiative."

Along the way, Cline credits the leadership and mentorship of those he worked under for helping him grow as a professional. "I was fortunate to serve under four great leaders during my time at IECC: Nancy Allard, Terry Bruce, Marilyn Holt, and Dr. Ryan Gower," he said. "Each of them taught me valuable lessons about how to be a good leader, communicator, negotiator, and most importantly, how to be a good friend."

Cline鈥檚 leadership philosophy is rooted in values that go back to his childhood. "I can still hear my mother telling me to 'remember the Golden Rule,' meaning to treat others as you would like to be treated," he said. "This philosophy has been a guiding principle for my entire life, and I believe it has served me well in my CIO role."

He also emphasized the importance of empathy and open communication. "I believe it is important to understand all perspectives in any situation," he said. "If we can put ourselves in someone else鈥檚 shoes, it is much easier to find a solution to the issue. And, of course, communication is very important when making any critical decisions."

One moment Cline feels best captures the spirit of the IECC IT team came during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Our team came together very quickly to support staff and faculty to do remote work with little to no planning or preparation," he said. "I was very proud of how everyone on our team pitched in to get every setup and working from home."

That sense of teamwork, dedication, and resilience, he said, defines IECC鈥檚 culture. "Technology has expanded into every aspect of higher education, and I have learned that the CIO role must understand the technological needs of each area," he said. "Listening and gaining an understanding of each situation is critical to bringing the best solution."

As he prepares to turn the page to a new chapter, Cline is excited about what lies ahead. "I just purchased a camper and plan to get it ready to go camping and eventually explore the national parks and wherever else the road leads," he said. "I have two wonderful children and plan to spend time with them and watch them grow into adulthood. I also have a long list of home projects I鈥檝e been putting off until retirement."

Cline says his hope is that his colleagues and friends at IECC will remember not just what he accomplished, but how he approached his work. "I hope everyone remembers that I put forth my best effort with honesty and integrity," he said. "IECC has the best people, and I will truly miss working with all of them every day."

As he passes the baton to his successor, Cline offers simple but heartfelt advice: "Enjoy every day at IECC! Some days will be more challenging than others, but they are all rewarding, and you will have great people to help you. Don鈥檛 forget to take time to relax, recharge, and enjoy life."