University leadership, campus partners and staff gathered Dec. 11 for the official kickoff of Capstone Convergence, a multiyear initiative to modernize The University of Alabama’s enterprise systems for finance, human resources and research administration.
The event featured remarks from University leaders, including UA President Peter J. Mohler, Interim Provost Lesley Reid, Vice President for Finance and Operations and Treasurer Dan Layzell, Chief Information Officer Mike Shelton, Capstone Convergence ERP Program Manager Kevin Donahoe, and executive representatives from partner agencies. Speakers outlined the initiative’s vision, scope and long-term benefits, emphasizing collaboration and campuswide engagement.
Capstone Convergence will replace UA’s legacy enterprise systems (Ellucian Banner) with a modern, cloud-based platform designed to improve efficiency, enhance data security, and provide more timely and accurate information to support decision-making across the University.
“Capstone Convergence is one of the most significant transformation efforts our University has undertaken in decades,” Layzell said. “While modernizing our information systems is at the heart of this initiative, this project is first and foremost about transforming how we work and how that work serves our stakeholders across UA.”
University leaders emphasized that broad participation will be essential as the project moves forward. Faculty and staff will be invited to engage through upcoming design sessions, training opportunities and regular project updates. More information about Capstone Convergence, including project goals, timelines and engagement opportunities, is available on the Capstone Convergence website.
Help Prepare for Change at UA
As Capstone Convergence gets underway, the transition team wants to understand how ready employees are for this change and what kind of support will be most helpful along the way.
Faculty and staff are invited to complete a brief, anonymous change readiness questionnaire. The survey takes about 5-10 minutes and focuses on expectations and preferred ways of receiving information — not technical details.
Responses will help:
- Understand how this change is landing across campus
- Improve communication and support for employees
- Plan the transition in a way that reflects UA’s culture and values
The survey is confidential and is being reviewed by Huron, a University consulting partner, to identify common themes and needs.
This is the first of several short check-ins during Capstone Convergence. The survey will remain open until Jan. 28.