Rob Lowden has assumed the role of Vice President and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at The Ohio State University, effective August 1. He brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education information technology leadership, most recently serving as Vice President and CIO at Indiana University.

As reported by Ohio State News, Lowden now reports to Chris Kabourek, Senior Vice President for Administration and Planning, and leads the Office of Technology and Digital Innovation (OTDI). His responsibilities include oversight of enterprise IT, cybersecurity, data and analytics, and digital learning platforms. He will also support strategic initiatives related to AI fluency, digital equity, and the university’s broader digital infrastructure.

“Rob Lowden brings deep expertise, innovative thinking, and a collaborative approach essential for advancing Ohio State’s technology strategy,” Kabourek said in the Ohio State News report. “His proven leadership will help us navigate a higher education landscape that is being reshaped by AI and other emerging technologies.”

Lowden previously led Indiana University’s IT operations during a period that included the transition to remote learning for more than 200,000 users across nine campuses and medical centers. He also oversaw efforts to consolidate IT staff systemwide, streamline operations, and improve cybersecurity readiness.

Earlier in his career, he served as Executive Associate Dean and CIO at the Indiana University School of Medicine, the largest medical school in the United States. In that role, he focused on research infrastructure, clinical education technologies, and data integration across the academic health system.

Commenting on his new role, Lowden stated, “As a land-grant institution with global impact, Ohio State has both the scale and the responsibility to lead in AI, digital transformation, and inclusive innovation. I look forward to partnering across the university to help shape the future of higher education—one where every learner is digitally empowered.”

Lowden served in the U.S. Navy from 1992 to 1997, where he was selected for the Divefarer program and trained as a search and rescue swimmer. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology and a Master of Science in Technology from Purdue University.