Who's Responsible for AI Safety on Your Campus?

Dr. Michael McCormick, Vice President of Innovation and Technology at Dynamic Campus, works with partner institutions to strengthen how they plan, manage and evolve their technology environments in support of long-term institutional goals.

With more than a decade of experience in higher education information technology, Michael has served in a range of leadership roles, including CIO, Technical Director and Systems Manager. His work focuses on providing strategic direction, strengthening operational effectiveness, and guiding institutions through complex technology decisions.

Michael is known for taking a thoughtful, service-oriented approach to leadership, with an emphasis on continuous improvement, strong customer experience, and the protection of institutional data. He works closely with partner institutions to optimize existing technology investments while designing tailored solutions to address their most pressing challenges.

Michael holds a Doctor of Science in Computer and Information Systems Security with a focus on information assurance, where his research explored data governance strategies and student privacy in higher education. He holds a Master of Science in Corporate and Community Education, along with bachelor’s degrees in Adolescent Education and Mathematics and advanced certifications in Human Resources Development and Training of Trainers. 

Fr. Brian Cavanaugh, TOR, a Franciscan Friar of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis, was ordained in 1982 and has spent his ministry in higher education, serving at Saint Francis University and Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Throughout his career, Fr. Brian has embraced emerging technology as a tool for teaching,
learning, and ministry, beginning with WordStar for DOS. Today, as an Information
Technology Advocate at Franciscan University, he helps faculty, staff, and students
explore how technology can enhance their work and learning.

Known humorously as “C-3PO,” a translator between the “humanoids” and the
“tech-heads,” Fr. Brian has made AI his latest technological adventure. Since diving into
AI in 2025, he has become particularly interested in helping people understand not only what AI can do, but when, how, and why we should use it responsibly.

For Fr. Brian, AI literacy is ultimately about developing the judgment to use powerful
technology wisely while keeping human responsibility at the center.

Patrick Farmer serves as Chief Operating Officer at Greenville University for Dynamic Campus, bringing more than 15 years of experience leading technology, cybersecurity, and operational initiatives in higher education. He partners with university leaders to align IT strategy, enterprise infrastructure, and digital innovation with institutional goals, helping colleges and universities navigate transformation while strengthening operational effectiveness. Patrick is also an early advocate for the practical application of artificial intelligence, leveraging tools such as Claude to enhance decision-making and drive meaningful organizational outcomes. 

Based in Glen Carbon, Illinois, Patrick combines a strong technical foundation with a passion for helping institutions use technology to better serve students, faculty, and staff. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology from Purdue University and, outside of work, enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the roads and trails of Southern Illinois as an enthusiastic (if self-described amateur) cyclist.