ITS Project Portfolio & Change Management added two change managers this month.
Emily Hardin and Rachel Holderied, both newcomers to UNC-Chapel Hill, joined the ITS division to focus on institutionally and divisionally scoped projects. Both have experience in change management and are eager to bring their knowledge and skills to their roles. Hardin was most recently with Wake County Public Schools while Holderied comes from the Environmental Protection Agency.
“Our Change Management team went through a significant transition this year,” said Brenda Carpen, Director of Project Portfolio & Change Management. “That transition allowed me to better align our change management work to the needs of ITS. To that end, I am thrilled to welcome Emily and Rachel, who bring their unique perspectives and experiences as change managers to the team. They will focus on developing strategies and plans to ensure people affected by our projects are aware, prepared and ready for change.”
Emily Hardin
Why did you want to join this team?
I enjoy working cross functionally within organizations, and this team touches almost every function across the University. I am excited about the support that comes with being part of a team and University with such a strong focus on the importance of change management. I also really appreciate how collaborative and welcoming the team is.
What excites you most about this position?
I am passionate about my role and making an impact across organizations. Information technology changes are an integral part of the University’s mission to serve as a center for research, scholarship and creativity. This position allows me the opportunity to ensure the community understands the need for changes and ensure they feel supported as those changes take place.
What do you bring to the role?
I bring a love of learning. I really enjoy asking questions and gaining insights from others. I believe active listening helps me empathize with impacted individuals and understand an issue from all angles. I enjoy helping others figure out a changing environment and not being afraid to experiment with new solutions or ideas.
What is your professional background?
I have professional training in change management and project management as well as years of experience in both. My previous experience includes implementing high-stakes technology changes in industries such as consumer-packaged goods, software as a service, and most recently in K-12.
What about the personal side?
I live locally in the Triangle with my husband and two daughters. After living in Hong Kong for a few years, we realized just how much we love learning about other places and cultures. A hobby of mine is creating photobooks of our travels.
Rachel Holderied
Why did you want to join this team?
I was drawn to the way this team is focused on proactively addressing change management early in the process and ensuring that technology transitions go as smoothly as possible. I was also impressed by the emphasis on continuous learning and serving as a resource for other teams as I enjoy working in a collaborative environment. Additionally, as a graduate of the School of Information and Library Science, I am looking forward to the opportunity to give back to the Carolina community.
What excites you most about this position?
One of the most exciting things about this position is the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects across campus. There is always something interesting to learn about with each new initiative, and I can’t wait to see what we will work on next.
What do you bring to the role?
I bring an openness to varying viewpoints and a desire to ensure that all voices are heard. I know that people all have different habits, motivations and responses to change and am always striving to learn more about how to best respect those differences.
What is your professional background?
I began my career as an IT librarian and have managed technology shifts for libraries in both public and higher education settings. For the past 10 years, I coordinated a nationwide network of libraries for the Environmental Protection Agency, a role which included communications, training and strategic planning as well as a focus on accessibility. I hold master’s degrees in library science and project management.
What about the personal side?
I live in Carrboro with my husband, my two children and one very spoiled dog. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, getting outside, reading and journaling.