Phil Thorson
Vice President for Technology Strategy & Chief Information Officer
Phil Thorson
Phil Thorson serves as Vice President for Technology Strategy and Chief Information Officer at St. Cloud State University and is a member of the President’s Cabinet. He provides executive leadership for technology strategy, cybersecurity, digital transformation, enterprise systems, and technology services.
Working across the university, Thorson aligns technology investments with institutional priorities and the President’s vision. His work supports student success, strengthens teaching and learning, improves university operations, and prepares St. Cloud State for emerging opportunities and challenges.
Thorson believes technology is most valuable when it helps people achieve their goals. His leadership emphasizes strong partnerships, secure and reliable services, responsible innovation, and sustainable solutions. Under his leadership, Information Technology Services works as an integrative strategic partner, connecting people, technology, and institutional strategy to advance the university’s mission.
He has championed efforts to modernize university operations, expand digital services, strengthen cybersecurity, and create opportunities to explore emerging technologies. These efforts have included administrative process transformation and innovative learning and engagement opportunities involving artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and St. Cloud State’s student-centered esports program.
Professional Leadership and Engagement
Thorson is an active leader within Minnesota State and the broader higher education technology community. He contributes to initiatives that strengthen technology governance, collaboration, and service delivery across Minnesota’s public colleges and universities.
He has presented on integrative leadership, digital transformation, and innovation at Boston College, Stanford University, the University of St. Thomas, and the EDUCAUSE Annual Conference.
His professional service includes leadership and advisory involvement with the Minnesota Learning Network, the Society for Information Management Minnesota Chapter, and MinnesotaCIO, part of the Inspire CIO Leadership Network. He is also a graduate of the MOR National Leadership Program and a three-time finalist for the Minnesota CIO of the Year ORBIE Awards.
Prior Experience
Before being named Vice President for Technology Strategy and Chief Information Officer, Thorson served St. Cloud State in a series of technology and leadership roles, including Director of Information Technology Services and Deputy Chief Information Officer. He became interim CIO in 2017 before moving into the permanent role.
His experience spans instructional technology, enterprise services, digital innovation, strategic planning, and organizational leadership, giving him a deep understanding of the university and the role technology can play in its future.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Technology Studies
- Associate degree in Electronic Engineering Technology
Community Engagement
Thorson is committed to serving the St. Cloud community through mentorship and civic engagement. He serves as a Big Brother through St. Cloud State University's Potter Bigs program, building a meaningful mentoring relationship with a local youth. He also serves on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Advisory Board and is a campus ambassador for the Potter Bigs program, helping strengthen the partnership between St. Cloud State University and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
In addition, Thorson is a member of the CentraCare Coborn Cancer Center Patient and Family Advisory Committee, supporting efforts to improve the patient and family experience.