Generations Program - New
The Generations Program is a College of Liberal Arts initiative managed by Liberal Arts Instructional Technology Services (LAITS) that provides eligible faculty with a current, university-owned computer on a regular replacement cycle.
The goal of the program is to ensure faculty have reliable, secure, and well-supported technology while maximizing the value of university resources through responsible lifecycle management.
Who is eligible?
The Generations Program is available to eligible College of Liberal Arts faculty, including:
Tenured Faculty
Tenure-Track Faculty
Eligible Professional-Track Faculty
Eligibility is determined by the College. Faculty who become eligible are automatically added to the program.
How often are computers replaced?
Eligible faculty are typically offered a replacement computer every 4 years.
This replacement schedule helps ensure participants always have a modern, fully supported computer while allowing the College to responsibly manage its technology investments.
How does the replacement process work?
When it is time for a replacement:
LAITS will contact eligible faculty.
Faculty will receive information about the available computer options.
After a selection is made, LAITS prepares and configures the new computer.
A deployment appointment is scheduled.
During deployment, the current Generations computer is exchanged for the new computer.
The process is designed to minimize downtime while ensuring faculty receive a fully configured system.
Why do I have to return my current computer?
Computers provided through the Generations Program remain property Liberal Arts Instructional Technology Services.
As part of the program, the current Generations computer must be returned when receiving a replacement. This exchange is a standard requirement for all participants and allows the College to:
Reuse eligible computers when appropriate
Reduce unnecessary technology waste
Maximize the value of university resources
What happens to my old computer?
Returned computers are evaluated by LAITS.
Depending on their age and condition, they may be:
Refreshed and redeployed to support other academic or administrative needs
Used as temporary loaner computers
Retired and sent through the University's surplus process
This lifecycle helps the College make the best use of existing equipment before purchasing new devices.
What computer options are available?
Each replacement cycle includes a selection of LAITS-supported standard computer models.
Available options may include Windows laptops, Mac laptops, desktops, or other approved configurations based on current university standards.
Computer offerings may change over time as manufacturers introduce new models.
Can I choose a different computer?
The Generations Program offers a curated list of supported systems that meet the needs of most faculty.
If your work requires specialized hardware beyond the standard offerings, please discuss your needs with your LAITS support representative. Specialized requests may require departmental approval or additional funding.
Will my files and settings transfer?
Yes.
LAITS will work with you to transfer your university data, settings, and supported applications whenever possible.
Some software may require reinstallation or license verification after deployment.
Do I keep my old computer?
No.
Participation in the Generations Program requires the return of the currently assigned Generations computer when the replacement is deployed.
What if I don't want a replacement right now?
Faculty may choose to defer participation during a replacement cycle.
If a replacement is deferred, the current computer will remain in service, and the faculty member may be considered again during a future Generations cycle.
What if my computer stops working before I'm eligible?
The Generations Program is separate from normal computer support.
If your computer experiences hardware failure or another issue, contact the LAITS Service Desk. LAITS will repair or replace the device as appropriate under standard support procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this my personal computer?
No. Computers issued through the Generations Program are university-owned assets assigned for university business.
Can I purchase my old Generations computer?
No. Generations computers are managed according to university asset management and surplus policies.
Can I upgrade the memory or storage?
No. Computers provided through the Generations Program are only available in the standard configurations offered by LAITS. If you require a computer with additional memory, storage, or other upgraded specifications, it must be purchased separately using departmental or professorship funds.
What if my research requires a more powerful computer?
The Generations Program provides standard computer configurations designed to meet the needs of most faculty. If your teaching or research requires specialized hardware or higher-performance specifications, a separate computer will need to be purchased using departmental or professorship funds. LAITS can assist with selecting an appropriate system. Click here to learn more about purchasing research equipment
Who should I contact with questions?
For questions about eligibility, computer selection, scheduling, or the replacement process, contact your LAITS support representative or submit a request through the LAITS Service Desk.