University of Missouri

Research Cybersecurity Excellence
The University of Missouri and UM System achieved a significant milestone in research cybersecurity by becoming one of the first organizations in the nation, and among the top 1%, to earn Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 certification. This designation enables researchers to compete for federal grants and contracts involving Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), including opportunities from the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. The university expanded its capabilities through the Arculus Research Enclave System, a secure research environment available to investigators across the UM System. Managed by the MU IT Research Support and Security team, Arculus achieved CMMC Level 2 certification in January 2026, providing researchers with a compliant, enterprise-wide platform to securely store, manage and analyze sensitive research data.

Expansion of Quantum Innovation Resources
Through the Mizzou Quantum Innovation Center, the University of Missouri provides researchers, faculty and students with access to IBM’s cloud-based quantum computing systems and tools to advance discoveries in emerging areas. In FY27, the university will expand the center’s impact through a new partnership with Dakota State University, creating additional opportunities for collaborative research and shared access to quantum computing resources. Supported by the College of Arts and Science, the College of Engineering and the Division of Information Technology, the center fosters interdisciplinary innovation and prepares the next generation of researchers and technology leaders.

Show-Me AI Walled Garden for Faculty, Students
The University of Missouri is committed to helping faculty and students use AI safely, ethically and effectively. Show-Me AI ensures our community can embrace innovation while protecting academic integrity, privacy and data security. We conducted a one-year proof-of-concept project to test the capabilities of the portal and further refine how faculty, instructors and students can use it for teaching and learning. Pilot users shared that having access to secure AI tools for their classroom provided opportunities for new learning experiences. Following a successful proof-of-concept project, Show-Me is now available to all Mizzou faculty and students.

Upgraded Network Across Campus
Since December 2023, the Division of IT has been undertaking a significant enhancement to campus infrastructure through the network modernization project. Now nearing completion, this three-phase initiative is expected to finish ahead of the 2026-27 academic year, delivering upgraded wired and wireless connectivity across the entire campus. To date, 142 buildings have received upgraded wired networks and 132 buildings have received upgraded wireless networks. Building on the success of the project, a similar network modernization effort has also been launched within MU Health Care.

Modernization of ERP Platform
The University of Missouri System will advance a multi-year initiative to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform, replacing the current PeopleSoft system, which has supported HR and Finance operations since 2001, with a modern cloud-based solution that serves all four universities and System Administration. This transformational effort is designed to strengthen the administrative foundation of the UM System by enhancing cybersecurity, improving the user experience, enabling greater scalability and integration, and streamlining business processes across the enterprise. Guided by a comprehensive governance structure with executive leadership and broad stakeholder engagement, the ERP modernization program supports institutional resilience, compliance and operational excellence for decades to come, with the earliest system changes anticipated in 2029.

Upgrades to University Phone Infrastructure
In FY27, the Division of IT will carry out its Cloud Calling initiative, modernizing campus communications by transitioning from traditional desktop phones to a cloud-based phone system integrated with Microsoft Teams. This transformation will provide faculty and staff with greater flexibility to make and receive calls from anywhere with a secure internet connection while improving reliability, reducing downtime and simplifying system support and maintenance. The new platform will also establish a foundation for future communication and productivity enhancements, ensuring the university’s phone services remain scalable, resilient and aligned with evolving workforce needs.

Show-Me AI Expansion and AI Resources
In FY27, the University of Missouri will continue advancing its AI-forward strategy by expanding the use of Show-Me AI, the university’s secure, institutionally supported artificial intelligence platform for faculty and students. Following a successful proof of concept and campuswide launch, Show-Me AI provides access to leading AI tools within a protected university environment that safeguards privacy, security and academic integrity. The platform supports teaching, learning and collaboration by helping faculty develop course materials and enhance student engagement while enabling students to better understand course content, prepare for exams and build customized learning assistants. As part of Mizzou’s broader investment in AI, the university will continue providing tools, training and resources that empower its community to use AI responsibly, ethically and effectively in support of academic excellence and innovation.

Building on a Culture of Accessibility
In FY27, the University of Missouri and the University of Missouri System will continue advancing enterprise-wide digital accessibility efforts in preparation for federal compliance requirements under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The university and system remain committed to maintaining momentum by integrating accessibility into academic content, websites, technology procurement and everyday business processes. Building on substantial progress made across the four universities, these efforts will focus on creating accessible digital experiences from the outset, strengthening accessibility governance, expanding training and awareness, and ensuring that digital tools, content and services are accessible to all members of the university community.