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Florida State University’s Office of Institutional Research (IR) has been awarded the 2025 TaxWatch Government Productivity Award for a training initiative that provides university employees with new resources and expertise — simultaneously saving millions for Florida taxpayers. 

The TaxWatch Awards event, which took place at the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, acknowledged state departments and collaboratives that have refined services, boosted efficiencies, and generated considerable savings for taxpayers. In 2025, FSU’s Office of Institutional Research was among only 10 organizations recognized for its contributions.

“This accolade underlines how the Office of Institutional Research is enabling staff to leverage data and technology in ways that enhance their performance and fortify FSU,” remarked Associate Vice Provost and Chief Data and Analytics Officer James Hunt. “It’s all about meeting individuals where they are and providing them with the instruments they need to thrive.” 

“This accolade underlines how the Office of Institutional Research is enabling staff to leverage data and technology in ways that enhance their performance and fortify FSU. It’s all about meeting individuals where they are and providing them with the instruments they need to thrive.” 

– James Hunt, Associate Vice Provost and Chief Data and Analytics Officer

The IR training initiative was crafted to provide FSU employees with essential data and technological expertise tailored to the university’s specific tools and compliance requirements. Utilizing Microsoft 365, the program automates scheduling, enrollment, and digital badge issuance, ensuring both accessibility and efficiency.  

By reducing dependence on externally sourced training, the program has saved over $100,000 in direct training expenses. When considering increased productivity, employee retention, and minimized outsourcing, it results in an estimated $10 million in annual savings for taxpayers. 

“I take pride in the fact that this initiative not only conserves funds — it contextualizes training to everyday operations at FSU and fosters a culture of excellence,” explained Institutional Research Program Director Lee Howell. “Staff acquire skills that are directly relevant to their positions, departments benefit from quicker and more precise reporting, and the university is better prepared to serve the state of Florida. 

Featuring a catalog of 10 courses, the training sessions encompass tools like Excel and Oracle Business Intelligence and cater to all skill levels — from foundational ‘Day Zero’ classes for novices to advanced certifications for seasoned users. 

Over the previous year, the team facilitated 60 sessions for more than 860 employees across FSU’s Tallahassee, Panama City, and international campuses in Florence, Italy, and London, U.K.  

“We often observe faculty members and facilities personnel learning together in Excel sessions,” Howell stated. “Everyone acquires practical skills they can implement right away — whether it’s a professor managing research data or a facilities team member overseeing budgets. It’s a powerful method to enhance skills across various roles and fortify the entire university workforce.” 

A ten-member team, comprising nine Institutional Research staff — Lee Howell, Andrew Brady, Samantha Nix, Heather Epstein-Diaz, Eclipse Ramsey, Katie Gipalo, Logan Poland, Gene Cilluffo, and Zachary Stoffers — along with Human Resources collaborator Emily Kennelly, designed this ecosystem to address FSU’s distinct needs. Kennelly’s contributions as an instructional designer, especially in crafting digital badges, integrates IR’s offerings into FSU’s comprehensive training framework, enhancing links to leadership development and assuring the university workforce is better supported. 

“We’re empowering individuals across the campus to extract their own data, utilize these tools effectively, and apply them directly to the tasks they perform at the university,” commented Institutional Research Associate Director Andrew Brady. “Our aim is to demonstrate how these resources relate to their specific roles, enabling them to make informed choices and work more efficiently.” 

For additional details on IR’s training programs, visit ir.fsu.edu. 

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