As part of our ongoing commitment to better securing our university systems and protecting the sensitive data of our community, we will be enabling additional security controls for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This critical update allows us to maintain a secure environment so we can ultimately best serve our students.
These changes will roll out over the next few weeks. Moving forward, you will be required to use MFA regularly for all systems that utilize our Microsoft Entra service for login.
What systems are affected?
This update impacts a wide variety of our daily tools. Systems requiring this regular MFA verification include, but are not limited to:
- Google Workspace
- The Nest
- ArcGIS Online
- Astra
- Cayuse
- Emburse
- …and all other platforms tied to our single sign-on (SSO) portal.
💡 Please Note: Canvas is not affected at this time. You can continue to log into Canvas as normal for now, but it will be integrated into these new MFA controls over the next few months.
What does this mean for you?
When logging into the affected university applications, you will be prompted to verify your identity via MFA every 12 hours through enhanced verification methods.
Why are we doing this?
Cyber threats targeting higher education are increasingly sophisticated. Strengthening our MFA controls is one of the most effective ways to prevent unauthorized access, safeguard student and institutional data, and ensure continuity in our educational mission.
As we continue to strengthen our organization’s cybersecurity posture, and transition to Microsoft Entra for MFA, we recognize that the most convenient and recommended way to complete this verification is by installing the Microsoft Authenticator app on a personal smartphone. Please note that using a personal device for authentication is entirely optional and consequently, Saint Mary’s will not provide financial reimbursement or stipends for personal cell phone usage. For employees who prefer not to use their personal phones, alternative hardware-based authentication methods will be made available.
Next Steps
- Be Prepared: Ensure you have access to your primary MFA verification device (such as your smartphone) when logging into university systems.
- Timeline: This phased rollout will take place over the next few months, starting 7/27/2026.
Thank you for your cooperation and your shared commitment to keeping our university secure. If you have any questions or need help setting up MFA, please contact the HelpDesk at 507-457-7800 or helpdesk@smumn.edu.
