4×4: Rockhurst University
Get acquainted with KCTC member Rockhurst University and their Director of Technology Programs, Lyndsay Noble.
ABOUT ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
1. Give us your organization’s quick origin story.
Rockhurst University, founded in 1910 as a Jesuit institution, has a long-standing commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service. More than a decade ago, we established one of the Kansas City region’s first graduate programs in business analytics, positioning ourselves as an early leader in data and analytics education. In 2024, we launched the College of Business and Technology, bringing together business, technology, and communication programs under a unified, interdisciplinary model. Within it, the School of Technology builds programs that intentionally integrate these three pillars—reflecting the reality that success in today’s workforce requires not only technical expertise, but also business insight and strong communication skills. Over the past five years, we’ve expanded into undergraduate programs in computer science and cybersecurity, launched a Master of Science in Information Systems in Fall 2025, and are evolving our MS in Data Analytics with the integration of AI beginning in Fall 2026. We also offer flexible pathways for learners at every stage—whether they are looking to upskill with a single course, gain targeted expertise through a role-specific graduate certificate, or complete a full master’s degree. Today, we focus on preparing students to lead at the intersection of technology, business, and communication, with real-world experience and values-driven decision-making at the core.
2. What problem are you currently solving in the KC tech industry?
One of the biggest challenges in the Kansas City tech ecosystem is the need for talent that can bridge the gap between technical expertise and business application. Employers consistently tell us they don’t just need coders or analysts—they need professionals who can translate data into decisions, communicate across teams, and lead responsibly in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. Rockhurst’s School of Technology is addressing this gap by developing talent that integrates technology, business, and communication—the three core competencies required for success in today’s workforce. Our programs are intentionally designed to produce graduates who can apply AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and information systems skills in real-world business contexts. A key differentiator is our emphasis on experiential learning—both our undergraduate and graduate degrees require hands-on, applied experiences such as internships, client-based projects, or research. This ensures students graduate not only with knowledge, but with practical experience and the ability to contribute immediately in the workplace. We are also helping solve the region’s need for accessible and flexible upskilling pathways. Through stackable options—including individual courses, graduate certificates, and full master’s degrees—we enable working professionals to quickly gain relevant skills and adapt as technology evolves. Ultimately, we are strengthening the KC tech talent pipeline by preparing graduates who are not only technically capable, but also business-minded, adaptable, and ready to deliver value from day one.
3. What can we expect to see from your company/organization in the next year?
Over the next year, Rockhurst’s School of Technology will continue to expand its impact as a key contributor to the Kansas City tech talent pipeline through innovation in both programming and partnerships. A major area of focus is the launch of a new Experiential Learning Hub within the College of Business and Technology. The Hub is designed to intentionally grow relationships with businesses and nonprofit organizations across the region, creating more opportunities for students to engage in internships, client-based projects, and other applied experiences that directly connect classroom learning to real-world impact. We are also actively redesigning our undergraduate programs—including applied mathematics, computer science, and analytics & technology—to better align with the rapidly evolving needs of students and employers in an AI-driven economy. These updates emphasize not only technical depth, but also adaptability, interdisciplinary thinking, and the integration of business and communication skills. At the graduate level, we will continue to evolve our offerings, including the integration of AI into our MS in Data Analytics and the ongoing growth of our MS in Information Systems. In parallel, we are developing new pathways for AI-focused learning and credentialing, designed to help both students and working professionals build relevant, future-ready skills. Across all of these efforts, our goal remains the same: to deliver industry-aligned, experience-driven education that prepares graduates to contribute immediately and lead confidently in Kansas City’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.
4. How can KCTC members get more involved?
KCTC members can partner with Rockhurst’s School of Technology in several impactful ways, starting with developing and upskilling their workforce. We offer flexible, stackable learning pathways—including individual courses, graduate certificates, and full degree programs—designed to help working professionals build skills in high-demand areas like AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and information systems. Beyond workforce development, members can engage directly with students through our expanding experiential learning partnerships. Through our new Experiential Learning Hub, we are actively building relationships with businesses and nonprofit organizations to create internships, client-based projects, mentorship opportunities, and guest speaking engagements. KCTC members also play an important role in helping us maintain industry-aligned curriculum by serving on advisory boards, sharing insights on emerging workforce needs, and collaborating on applied projects that reflect real-world challenges. Ultimately, we view KCTC members as strategic partners in developing the Kansas City tech ecosystem—whether by growing their own talent, engaging with our students, or helping shape the next generation of tech professionals.
ABOUT LYNDSAY NOBLE
1. If your office was The Office, what character would you be?
I haven’t actually watched The Office, but I’m told (by my favorite gen-AI tool) I’d probably be an Oscar-type—focused, pragmatic, and always thinking about how to move things forward. I tend to be the person driving progress, sometimes with timelines that make others roll their eyes a little. I like building strong programs, connecting people, and turning ideas into action, with just enough humor to keep it all grounded.
2. What’s an app you can’t live without?
Copilot—my workday runs through it more than I expected it ever would. It helps me organize my thinking, draft content, and accelerate projects, which is essential in a role where there’s always something being built or improved.
3. What’s your favorite hidden gem in Kansas City?
One of my favorite “hidden gems” is really the small businesses spread across all corners of Kansas City—especially in areas people don’t always think to explore first, like along Troost. Places like Gael’s and Niecie’s stand out not just for the food and atmosphere, but because they reflect the character and diversity of the city. Those are the experiences that make Kansas City feel dynamic and worth exploring beyond the usual spots.
4. What technology tip are you always giving your clients?
Technology adoption isn’t really about the technology—it’s about the people, processes, and culture around it. Even the best tools won’t create value if they’re not intentionally integrated into how teams work. Just as importantly, technology has to align with an organization’s strategic goals—implementing tech for tech’s sake is almost always a failing proposition. I often encourage organizations to focus just as much on change management and workflow design as they do on the technology itself.
Increase Awareness of Your Organization
4×4 is a quick and digestible way to get to know KCTC member companies. If you’re a part of our membership, you have the opportunity to spotlight your organization in a future feature!
