Founded in 1885, The University of Arizona (UA), with about 37,000 students, is considered by academic experts to be among the foremost student-centered institutions in the United States. It also is ranked among the nation’s top 20 public research institutions. With a dedicated, world-class faculty in fields as diverse as astronomy, plant science, biomedical science, business, law, music and dance, UA offers a rewarding educational experience to all who strive for excellence.
Problem
UA students were irate over the university’s wireless system. Although Wi-Fi “islands” were scattered around campus by 2004, the lack of a single campus network fueled a chorus of student complaints. Articles in the campus newspaper described UA’s “second-rate wireless LAN” with “too many systems and not enough coverage.” They described dropped calls and students having to log in multiple times as they entered Wi-Fi hotspots.
“Everyone in the administration agreed something had to be done — and quickly!” said Michele Norin, university CIO and executive director of University Information Technical Services (UITS). “An institution known for outstanding research like ours must offer its students an outstanding wireless network. These days, students come to campus with certain wireless connectivity expectations.”
“Once we agreed a campus-wide wireless network was essential, the next question was how to pay for it,” said Bob Lancaster, director of network technical solutions, a unit reporting to UITS. The university decided to institute a student technology fee paid at registration.
Lancaster and his group surveyed the student body. Results were overwhelmingly positive: Students were willing to pay a technology fee to fund The Wireless Project. Former University President Pete Likins discussed the issue with student government leaders; they agreed and prepared students for the fee’s introduction next fall.
The University of Arizona selected Cisco for equipment and NEC Unified for the integration and management of its ambitious wireless network project. “This truly has been a partnership between Cisco, NEC and UA,” said Norin.
“Proven project management skill was also key. NEC had recently handled the Sky Harbor (Phoenix airport) wireless project, a smaller but similar installation,” said Tom Magrini, assistant director of network services.
Solution
NEC managed the UA project on a turnkey basis, including site surveys, predictive analysis, infrastructure vendor selection and budget management. Working with UITS, NEC specified Cisco Catalyst and Aironet networking gear throughout, along with Cisco Wireless Control System management software.
