Greg Named Executive Director

 MACOMB/MOLINE, IL –- Greg Kain, who brings 18 years of experience innovating technology in the Illinois higher education industry, has been named the executive director of University Technology (uTech)/Chief Information Officer at Western Illinois University, effective July 1. He replaces Jeremy Merritt, director of web services/IT manager, who has been serving in the interim role since former CIO Rebecca Slater's departure in December 2021.

Kain has been the executive director of information technology at Prairie State College since 2015. In this role he provided strategic leadership for the college's technology initiatives, including the management of all technology operations, including networking, user support, security, telecommunications and training. As the college's information security officer, Kain created a formal cyber security plan and updated the school's technology security systems. He also oversaw the migration to new ERP and CRM programs, and along with other cloud-based systems.

"Greg's varied background and experiences in technology systems, including CRM and ERP systems, will allow us to continue to move forward with our plans to further improve and enhance our technology at Western," said Interim Provost Billy Clow. "His leadership will allow for a smooth transition. I'd also like to thank Jeremy Merritt for stepping into the role to provide leadership and direction during the search."

Before joining PSC, he was the executive director of information technology for five years at WAKA Group, LLC in Virginia, and also served as the director of application development at Governors State University for 12 years. Kain also worked in technology positions in the private sector.

"I'm excited to join the Western Illinois University community," Kain said. "There are some exciting plans in place that I can't wait to be a part of, and I look forward to meeting everyone and ensuring optimal service for University Technology."

He earned his MBA from Governors State University, and his bachelor's degree from Purdue University.