Get to Know Our Community: Stefano Fiorini

I work with a team of statisticians and data scientists to develop advanced analytics that support our institutional mission and progress toward Indiana University’s strategic plan. Our analytics range from the classroom level—such as assessing the impact of instructional changes—to addressing departmental analytical needs and campus-wide predictive analytics for budget construction, proactive advising, and enrollment. Depending on the project, we apply statistical analysis, machine learning, or artificial intelligence approaches.

Name: Stefano Fiorini, Ph.D.
Title: Manager of Research and Analytics, Institutional Analytics
Organization: Indiana University

Can you describe your current role in institutional research and how it supports your institution’s mission?

I work with a team of statisticians and data scientists to develop advanced analytics that support our institutional mission and progress toward Indiana University’s strategic plan. Our analytics range from the classroom level—such as assessing the impact of instructional changes—to addressing departmental analytical needs and campus-wide predictive analytics for budget construction, proactive advising, and enrollment. Depending on the project, we apply statistical analysis, machine learning, or artificial intelligence approaches.

What sparked your interest in institutional research, and how has your career evolved since then?

I entered the IR field by chance after a friend suggested that I would be a good candidate for the position. Since then, my role has evolved from basic reporting and descriptive statistics to applying increasingly complex analytics. I now tap into our wealth of available data to produce actionable insights that support our students, faculty, and colleagues across campus.

What’s one project or accomplishment in your IR work that you’re especially proud of—and why?

I am especially proud of our advanced analytics for advising and student support (the latest iteration can be found here). This work "checks all the boxes": it contributes to student retention, involves collaboration with colleagues who directly care for students, and requires deep teamwork. Ultimately, it resulted in a methodologically solid and highly actionable product.

What do you find most rewarding (or enjoyable) about working in IR?

The most rewarding part is contributing to our institution's critical mission: supporting the intellectual growth of critical thinkers who will go out into the world, fulfill their dreams, and contribute positively to our communities.

When you’re not working with data, how do you like to spend your time?

When I'm not working, I enjoy exercising, particularly running and cycling. Because I hold an undergraduate degree in Natural Science, I also love heading into the woods or fermenting food—propagating bacteria and yeast in a controlled way that is both delicious and beneficial for gut health!

What’s something about you—personal or professional—that might surprise your colleagues?

Those who know me might have noticed my Italian accent. I grew up in Bologna, Italy, home to the oldest university in the Western world (founded in A.D. 1088). In fact, my undergraduate degree was granted during that university's ninth century of existence! I am also a naturalized U.S. citizen; America has given me so much, and I am extremely grateful for the chance to give back through my work and my contributions to the community in Bloomington and beyond.