Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Technical Skills
Leadership Impact Highlights
Timeline
Generic

RICO HARRIS

Stockbridge

Summary

Transformational educational leader with over a decade of experience enhancing student success and enrollment in higher education. Expertise in instructional design, academic operations, and educational technology, focusing on data-driven retention and engagement strategies. Proven ability to build collaborative teams and streamline processes, leveraging LMS and CRM platforms to drive institutional effectiveness.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Director of Technology & Instructional Design

J. Moné’s Performing Arts Center (JPAC)
09.2024 - Current
  • Led the design and implementation of online and hybrid curriculum, improving student engagement and learning outcomes through multimedia-driven instruction and AI-integrated learning tools
  • Developed and deployed LMS-based learning environments (Canvas, Google Classroom), increasing course accessibility and navigation, leading to higher student completion rates.
  • Trained and coached faculty on instructional best practices, increasing adoption of digital learning strategies and improving instructional consistency across programs
  • Leveraged LMS analytics to identify at-risk students and implemented early intervention strategies, fostering student persistence and improving academic success.
  • Designed scalable assessment models and student portfolio systems to measure competency-based learning outcomes
  • Collaborated with leadership to align curriculum with institutional goals, enhancing program quality and consistency, contributing to institutional growth.

VDI Support Engineer (Contract)

CONA Services
09.2024 - 03.2025

· Designed, deployed, and managed Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) environments, ensuring secure, high-performance virtual desktops for users across the organization.

· Configured and administered Azure Entra (Azure AD) for identity management, including setting up user accounts, conditional access, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure access to virtual desktops.

· Leveraged PowerShell scripting to automate AVD tasks, such as session host provisioning, scaling, user assignments, and desktop image updates, significantly improving operational efficiency.

· Implemented security measures within AVD environments, including Network Security Groups (NSGs), role-based access control (RBAC), and data protection policies to safeguard virtual desktops and data.

· Monitored and optimized AVD performance and resource allocation, utilizing Azure Monitor and Log Analytics to ensure system reliability and manage costs effectively.

· Supported application and profile management in the AVD environment using FSLogix for profile containerization, optimizing load times and enhancing user experience.

· Provided Level 3 support for virtual desktop-related issues, diagnosing and resolving complex technical problems with connectivity, application compatibility, and user access.

Desktop Infrastructure Specialist (Contract)

Citizens Bank
Atlanta
03.2023 - 08.2024

· Led the deployment and management of directory services, including Active Directory (AD) and Azure AD, ensuring efficient authentication and access control.

· Developed and enforced identity and access policies, including role-based access control (RBAC), privileged access management (PAM), and multi-factor authentication (MFA), to enhance security and compliance.

· Configured and maintained Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions, integrating applications with Azure AD, ADFS, SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect.

· Automated IAM processes using PowerShell, improving efficiency and reducing manual workload.

· Managed and optimized identity lifecycle processes, including provisioning, deprovisioning, and access certification, integrating with HR and IT systems.

· Conducted access reviews, audits, and compliance assessments, ensuring alignment of IAM practices with industry regulations and frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS benchmarks.

· Troubleshot and resolved authentication, authorization, and identity federation issues, ensuring seamless user access and security.

· Collaborated with security, cloud, and application teams to integrate IAM solutions into enterprise architectures, improving overall security posture and user experience.

· Stayed up to date with emerging IAM technologies, security threats, and best practices, continuously improving identity governance and security posture..

Senior Admissions Representative III

UEI College
02.2021 - 03.2023
  • Managed full-cycle enrollment operations, supporting student onboarding from inquiry through enrollment while maintaining compliance standards
  • Coached and mentored admissions staff, resulting in improved team conversion rates
  • Utilized CRM systems (CampusVue/Anthology) to track pipeline data and optimize outreach strategies, enhancing overall enrollment efficiency
  • Partnered with financial aid, academics, and student services to identify and eliminate enrollment barriers, improving student onboarding experience
  • Contributed to student retention efforts by ensuring alignment between admissions expectations and academic readiness

Office 365 Administrator

Magic Memory Productions
Atlanta
01.2020 - 02.2021

· Administered Office 365 integrated applications (Teams, Exchange, OneDrive) within virtual desktop infrastructure, managing licenses, permissions, and resolving end-user issues to enhance operational continuity.

· Designed, deployed, and managed Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) environments, ensuring secure, high-performance virtual desktops for users across the organization.

· Configured and administered Azure Entra (Azure AD) for identity management, including setting up user accounts, conditional access, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure access to virtual desktops.

· Leveraged PowerShell scripting to automate AVD tasks, such as session host provisioning, scaling, user assignments, and desktop image updates, significantly improving operational efficiency.

· Implemented security measures within AVD environments, including Network Security Groups (NSGs), role-based access control (RBAC), and data protection policies to safeguard virtual desktops and data.

· Monitored and optimized AVD performance and resource allocation, utilizing Azure Monitor and Log Analytics to ensure system reliability and manage costs effectively.

· Supported application and profile management in the AVD environment using FSLogix for profile containerization, optimizing load times and enhancing user experience.

· Delivered Level 3 support for virtual desktop issues, diagnosing and resolving complex technical problems related to connectivity, application compatibility, and user access to ensure seamless user experience.

Jr. Systems Administrator

Hygia Health Services
Atlanta
10.2017 - 12.2020

· Provided support in managing and maintaining Windows and Linux servers, ensuring reliable and efficient performance for users and applications.

· Monitored system performance and network health, responding to alerts and troubleshooting hardware, software, and connectivity issues to maintain operational uptime.

· Streamlined user account creation, password resets, and permissions management within Active Directory to enhance user access control.

· Supported software installations, updates, and patches to keep systems secure and compliant with company standards.

· Performed regular backups and data recovery tasks to safeguard business-critical information.

· Helped enforce IT policies and security protocols, including antivirus updates, firewall rules, and access controls.

· Provided desktop and technical support to end-users, resolving issues with hardware, software, printers, and network connectivity.

· Collaborated with senior administrators on infrastructure projects, contributing to system upgrades, migrations, and optimizations.

· Created and maintained detailed documentation for system configurations and troubleshooting procedures to ensure continuity and support team knowledge sharing.

Networks & Technology Trainer

AT&T (Ramsey Ent. Contract)
Birmingham
01.2015 - 05.2017
  • Designed and developed technical training modules for AT&T Wire Technicians, including step-by-step installation guides, fiber and copper troubleshooting procedures, and safety compliance workflows aligned with Network Technology standards.
  • Delivered comprehensive training for technicians on network systems, installations, troubleshooting, and IP addressing.
  • Created multimedia-rich training assets (videos, job aids, simulations, interactive LMS modules) to enhance technician accuracy and support performance consistency across AT&T’s Network Technology operations.
  • Designed instructional content, including presentations, lab exercises, and simulations, to enhance technical learning outcomes for technicians.
  • Led workshops for large and small groups, aligning instruction with AT&T’s corporate standards and security protocols.
  • Partnered with management to identify training gaps, build targeted curricula, and measure program effectiveness.
  • Collaborated with SMEs and field supervisors to transform complex network concepts—such as ONT provisioning, drop placement, bonding/grounding, and RG configuration—into clear, accessible instructional content for new hires and experienced technicians.

Associate Director of Admissions

Virginia College Online
10.2009 - 12.2015
  • Led admissions operations for online programs, achieving sustained enrollment growth and enhancing student intake processes
  • Supervised and developed admissions teams, fostering accountability and elevating performance outcomes
  • Implemented data-driven recruitment strategies to expand applicant pools and improve student diversity
  • Led virtual engagement initiatives (webinars, consultations), improving prospective student experience and conversion rates
  • Managed CRM systems (Salesforce, Slate) to track enrollment trends and support strategic decision-making
  • Collaborated with academic and student support teams to ensure seamless transition from enrollment to student success

Education

Masters - Management and Leadership

Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
01-2026

Masters - Education Technology & Instructional Design

Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
01-2025

Bachelor’s - Cloud Computing

Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
08-2024

Associates - Technology Studies

Herzing University
Birmingham, AL
05-2014

Diploma - Network Systems

Herzing University
Birmingham, AL
05-2012

Skills

  • Instructional Design Tools
  • E-learning Development
  • Articulate Storyline
  • Google Classroom
  • CANVAS LMS
  • Blackboard
  • Anthology
  • Video Editing Solutions
  • Animated Content Creation
  • Visual Media Production
  • Digital Content Development
  • Office 365
  • Google Workspace
  • SQL
  • Python
  • PowerShell
  • Graphic Design Tools

Certification

  • CompTIA A+
  • Security+
  • Network+
  • Cloud+
  • Project+
  • ITIL
  • Microsoft Azure Security Engineer
  • Azure Administrator
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner

Technical Skills

Google Classroom, Anthology, CANVAS LMS, Blackboard, Dreamclass CRM, Azure AD, Azure Virtual Desktop, VMware, Intune, Office 365, Google Workspace, PowerShell, Python, SQL, Adobe Creative Suite, Articulate Storyline, Camtasia, Vyond, Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, multimedia production, digital assessments, Adobe Captivate

Leadership Impact Highlights

  • Led cross-functional collaboration between admissions, academic, and student services teams to improve student onboarding and retention
  • Implemented data-driven strategies to identify and support at-risk students
  • Designed scalable digital learning environments to support hybrid and online education models
  • Developed faculty training programs to improve instructional quality and student engagement
  • Experienced in aligning operational strategy with institutional goals and student success outcomes

Timeline

Director of Technology & Instructional Design

J. Moné’s Performing Arts Center (JPAC)
09.2024 - Current

VDI Support Engineer (Contract)

CONA Services
09.2024 - 03.2025

Desktop Infrastructure Specialist (Contract)

Citizens Bank
03.2023 - 08.2024

Senior Admissions Representative III

UEI College
02.2021 - 03.2023

Office 365 Administrator

Magic Memory Productions
01.2020 - 02.2021

Jr. Systems Administrator

Hygia Health Services
10.2017 - 12.2020

Networks & Technology Trainer

AT&T (Ramsey Ent. Contract)
01.2015 - 05.2017

Associate Director of Admissions

Virginia College Online
10.2009 - 12.2015

Masters - Management and Leadership

Western Governors University

Masters - Education Technology & Instructional Design

Western Governors University

Bachelor’s - Cloud Computing

Western Governors University

Associates - Technology Studies

Herzing University

Diploma - Network Systems

Herzing University
RICO HARRIS