Slippery Rock University has hired Michael Chahino as chief information technology officer, following a national search and extensive feedback from the campus community. Chahino, who currently serves as chief information officer at Elgin Community College in Illinois, will begin his new role at SRU on Jan. 11, 2027.
Chahino brings more than three decades of experience as a technology executive with leadership in higher education, economics and public service. At SRU, he will be responsible for providing strategic vision, leadership and executive oversight of information technology operations, while overseeing enterprise technology services, IT governance, and support for digital learning. He will join the President’s Cabinet and Administrative Council, applying his board-level experience in technology strategy, financial stewardship, enterprise risk and responsible innovation.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Chahino to SRU and benefit from his strategic vision and leadership,” said SRU President Karen Riley. “As technology continues to shape how we work, learn and serve our students, his experience will help us strengthen our technology infrastructure and position the University for continued success.”
“I am honored to join Slippery Rock University and grateful for the confidence President Riley and the leadership team have placed in me,” Chahino said. “SRU’s reputation as a student-centered institution is what drew me here, and I look forward to working alongside such a talented group of leaders, administrators, staff and faculty. Most importantly, I am excited to help ensure technology serves our students well and supports their success at The Rock and beyond.”
As CIO at Elgin Community College, Chahino directs the institution’s technology vision and leads enterprise-wide initiatives that advance student success, operational excellence, and institutional resilience. His portfolio spans enterprise systems, digital transformation, infrastructure and technology governance. As chair of the College’s AI Governance Oversight Committee, he guides the strategic and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence, helping the institution to embrace emerging opportunities while managing risk.
A former research economist with the U.S. Department of State, Chahino is an accomplished speaker and author, with expertise in AI, quantum readiness, digital transformation and accessibility. He is the author of “How to Succeed as an Online Learner? Key Characteristics of a Successful Online Learner,” as well as other scholarly articles and professional contributions.
Chahino holds a doctorate in educational technology from Northern Illinois University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in economics from Illinois State University.
“Dr. Chahino’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for SRU, and we are grateful he is bringing his extensive experience and vision to help guide our evolving technology needs,” said Carrie Birckbichler, SRU vice president for finance and administration. “I thank the members of the search committee, chaired by Vice President for Student Affairs David Wilmes, for their thoughtful work and commitment throughout this process to help us identify a strong leader.”
