Tech Tips: August 2025 Faculty/Staff Newsletter

This message was originally shared to all faculty and staff via email on August 14, 2025.

At a Glance

Each month, Information Technology Services provides tech tips for the Orange community. Pressed for time? Here are this edition’s topics:

AI and the Semester Ahead

As the semester approaches, ITS is excited to help you incorporate generative AI into your day-to-day.

  • Microsoft Copilot is now powered by OpenAI’s latest GPT-5 model (the same model that powers ChatGPT). Visit https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat to start exploring (use your University credentials when prompted to sign in).
  • Google Gemini (gemini.google.com) also is available, including access to Google’s 2.5 Pro Model featuring guided learning, a canvas editor and image generation. Use your netid@g.syr.edu credentials when logging in.
  • We look forward to announcing the availability of a new generative AI tool to support our campus community shortly after the semester begins.
  • The recording of the ITS Summer Series workshop on generative AI is available on the ITS website. The video includes an AI overview and demos.
  • This fall, the ITS Faculty Fluency AI Training Series will help instructors build expertise with University-supported AI tools that can support teaching and learning. Visit Answers for more information and to register.

As generative AI continues to evolve, ITS will help you figure out which tools work best for your specific goals. Be sure to sign up for our AI Insights newsletter for the latest updates!

Adobe Express

Adobe Express for Higher Education is now free for all students, faculty and staff. Easily create professional-quality graphics, videos and documents with built-in templates and tools, plus access to Photoshop Express, Premiere Rush and Spark Video. Perfect for projects, social media and presentations, Adobe Express makes creativity simple across campus. Learn More.

ITS Summer Series

This summer, the ITS Summer Series covered a variety of key technology topics—from collaboration tools and the latest in information security to the ways generative AI is reshaping the workplace. Each 45-minute virtual session is now available to watch on our website, so you can revisit your favorites or catch up on the ones you missed. Watch Videos.

MakerSpace Hours

MakerSpace will resume academic hours on Aug. 25. Hours will be Monday–Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. Please note that no work orders are accepted within 30 minutes of closing. Staff may decline projects that would extend past closing. Hours and Info.

Classroom Training

LEMP provides faculty and staff with hands-on training to confidently use technology in campus classrooms. Select a quick 10-minute mini session focused on specific equipment or a 30-minute orientation covering all available technology. Request a session to ensure a smooth start to your semester. Request Training. 

Digital Accessibility Tip: Free Aira Access

ITS offers free access to Aira for students, faculty, staff, families and visitors. Aira provides real-time visual interpreting for the benefit of those who are blind or have low vision—whether you’re new to campus or just finding your way around. Download Aira. 

Information Security Tip: Don’t Take the Bait

Cybercriminals target universities with scam emails posing as trusted contacts. Watch for urgent language, unknown senders and mismatched links. In a recent phishing test, 36% clicked a fake link—don’t be one of them! Review Tips. 

Helpful Resources

ITS and the campuswide information technology community are available year-round to help with your tech questions. Resources include:

• Academic and administrative IT staff

• Classroom Resource Guide

• ITS Service Center

• Self-Serv NetID and password management portal

Thank you for reading. Go Orange!