Barnard College to Implement Workday Student System by 2028

The transition to Workday Student is set to commence next month, with the new system anticipated to be fully operational by the beginning of the fall 2028 semester. This system aims to consolidate various academic and administrative functions that are currently managed across multiple platforms, such as degree audits, advising, and financial aid.

According to reports, Barnard's current systems include platforms like Colleague, Slate, Salesforce, and the Columbia University Student Information Services. The integration of these services is expected to streamline processes, making it easier for both staff and students to access necessary information.

Barnard College Strategic Goals and Community Involvement

Barnard's executive vice president for strategy and chief administrative officer, Kelli Murray, emphasized that the transition will not merely involve replacing existing systems on a one-for-one basis. Instead, the college is actively seeking to determine which systems will be phased out and what new functionalities will be integrated into the Workday platform.

To ensure that the new system meets the needs of its users, Barnard plans to engage students and faculty through advisory groups. These groups will play a crucial role in the design and testing phases, providing valuable feedback that will help refine the platform before its full launch.

Barnard College Financial Implications and Operational Efficiency

The transition to Workday Student will require an initial investment; however, the college anticipates that costs will decrease over time as it reduces the number of systems it maintains. Currently, Barnard is facing financial challenges, with its long-term debt increasing to $274 million in fiscal year 2025, up from approximately $184 million in the previous year. In response to these pressures, the college has implemented cost-cutting measures, including staff layoffs and tuition hikes.

Murray noted that the existing fragmented systems often complicate access to student information, necessitating staff to compile records from various platforms to maintain a cohesive student profile. The new system is expected to alleviate this burden, allowing staff to focus more on providing support to students rather than managing cumbersome administrative tasks.

Barnard College Future Directions and Broader Goals

The rollout of Workday Student is part of Barnard's broader strategic initiative, titled “Bold History, Fearless Future”, which was introduced in 2024. This long-term plan aims to enhance the college's infrastructure and centralize its systems, reflecting a proactive approach to adapting to technological advancements and evolving data management practices.

Murray stated that the Workday implementation is just one of many steps the college is taking to address these challenges. While several aspects of the transition are still being finalized, including the complete list of platforms that will be replaced, the overall vision is clear: to create a more efficient and user-friendly environment for both students and staff.

Conclusion

The transition to Workday Student represents a significant step forward for Barnard College in its efforts to modernize its administrative and academic services. By streamlining processes and enhancing accessibility, the college aims to create a more supportive environment for its students and staff alike.