Name: Massachusetts Digital Government Summit 2025
Start: 2025-09-18T08:00
Location: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

Overview

The Digital Government Summit is an event that brings together public sector leaders and technology professionals to explore innovative solutions to solve government problems. Key themes include cybersecurity, digital transformation, AI implementation, data governance, and fostering collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Attendees will benefit from expert discussions, peer networking, and insights into the future of government technology. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

My team is still talking about the speakers from last fall! I look forward to this event each year, foremost because of the incredible collaboration it facilitates. We do our best work when we work together, and the Digital Government Summit is a great example of that. I look forward to seeing you in our new host facility at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center!

– Jason Snyder, Secretary, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, and Chief Information Officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews

CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate

Founded award-winning power and data infrastructure tech company credited with inventing an energy generating soccer ball and revolutionizing vision AI in energy efficiency
Mission-driven leader who values positive social impact and inspires audience to use innovation and technology to meet everyday needs
Recognized as Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, 30 Under 30 list for Forbes and Inc., and Scientist of the Year by Harvard University
Powerhouse speaker dedicated to using technology to change the world
Innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility have always been intrinsic to Jessica O. Matthews, even from a young age. At just 19, she invented SOCCKET, an energy-generating soccer ball that reflects her vision for a better world. Matthews was inspired by her experiences in Nigeria, when she noticed the reliance on dangerous diesel generators during power outages. She addressed a community need and created a safer alternative that harnesses power from an everyday activity to provide a source of light.
Her invention of SOCCKET exemplifies Matthews’ unique blend of altruism and a disruptive technological mindset that encourages her audience to embrace innovation and actively contribute to positive change. She channeled these qualities into founding Uncharted, an award-winning sustainable-infrastructure company that empowers small and under-resourced cities. As CEO, she takes her social responsibility seriously, creating solutions that enhance access to energy, water, air, and transit. Notably, Matthews has revolutionized vision AI in energy efficiency, developing technology that employs “smart photos” to visually assess homes. These photos then determine potential savings on energy bills and qualifying rebates. Matthews is committed to preserving the unique identities of the cities she serves, asserting that citizens shouldn’t have to "leave where they are from to get where they are goingExclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, Jessica O. Matthews captivates audiences with her engaging presentation style. A relatable, down-to-earth speaker, she refers to herself as a “blend of Beyoncé and Bill Nye the Science Guy.” Her enthusiasm engages audiences, and she often jumps rope on stage to demonstrate her innovations in an interactive way. This personable approach allows her to connect deeply with her audience, fostering an honest dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in innovation. Matthews leaves audiences feeling inspired and motivated to create solutions that disrupt the status quo and encourages them to meet the needs of real people and communities. Her ability to tailor her message to resonate with the unique interests and experiences of each audience ensures that her insights are both relevant and impactful.
Jessica’s success in entrepreneurship led to a White House invitation from President Barack Obama to represent small companies for the signing of the America Invents Act in 2012. In 2016, she raised what was at the time the largest Series A round ever raised by a black female founder in history and was selected to ring the NASDAQ opening ceremony bell, representing all Forbes 30 Under 30 alumni. In 2021, Jessica was officially appointed by Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm to the Electricity Advisory Committee. As a member of the Smart Grid subcommittee, she plays a key role in advising the Department of Energy on the ways we can modernize our nation’s electric delivery system, specifically focusing on accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the U.S.
A dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, Jessica has a degree in psychology and economics from Harvard University, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and is listed on over 12 patents and patents pending. Her list of accolades includes Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, Forbes 30 Under 30, Inc. Magazine 30 Under 30 and Female Founders 100, Harvard University Scientist of the Year, One Young World Entrepreneur of the Year, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award, and Black Women Tech Talk’s Tech Trailblazer Award. She has appeared on the cover of Forbes and Forbes Africa, as well as featured in Marie Claire, Wired, Inc., TechCrunch, The New York Times, and Fast Company, among others.

Maura Brown

Data Strategy Director, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts 

Maura B. Brown is the Director of Data Strategy at EOHHS. With extensive experience in data analytics, she leads initiatives to drive a cultural shift towards unified Data and Analytics, manages cross-functional teams, and supports the transformation of infrastructure to produce actionable data insights. Maura specializes in advanced data mining, automated reporting, and data visualization using tools such as Tableau, SAS, and Snowflake. Her expertise includes strategic planning, developing KPIs, and leading an AI Community of Practice focused on building the foundation for transparent, balanced, and scalable generative artificial intelligence to produce impactful data insights and improve healthcare outcomes. As a passionate advocate for data-driven decision making, Maura has successfully led projects that align analytics with business needs and foster data literacy across organizations.

Steven Duncan

Chief Information Officer, Judiciary, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Steve joined the Massachusetts Judiciary in 2021 as the Chief Information Officer and is responsible for leading the digital transformation of the courts. Prior to joining the courts, he worked for 12 years as the IT Director at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, overseeing the modernization of the school’s infrastructure and applications. He began his career working in the consulting field, working across a variety of industries and in multiple roles.

Borana Hajnaj

Director of Contract Management & Special Counsel, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Borana Hajnaj is the Director of Contract Management & Special Counsel at the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, where she leads a team of attorneys responsible for negotiating a wide range of information technology agreements, including enterprise software agreements, master services agreements, large IT project implementations, and IT infrastructure contracts.
For the past 11 years, Borana has worked as a government attorney in various capacities. She began her career practicing labor law, where she negotiated collective bargaining agreements for sworn and civilian unions, represented the Boston Police Department and the City of Boston in arbitrations and mediations, and negotiated new policies and changes with the unions.
Over the last 8 years, Borana has specialized in government technology contracting. Her journey has led her from the Office of the General Counsel at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), the largest secretariat of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to the Office of Contract Management at the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS), the lead enterprise technology organization for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Borana earned her Juris Doctor from Suffolk University School of Law, a Master of Science in International Relations from Suffolk University, and a Bachelor's degree with dual majors in European Studies and Political Science from the American University in Bulgaria.

Mike Hamel

Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology, City of Worcester

Michael Hamel has worked in a variety of state and local government roles in Massachusetts and is currently the Chief Information Officer for the City of Worcester. In his current role he oversaw the consolidation of Worcester's Technical Services Department and the Office of Urban Innovation, to create the current Department of Innovation and Technology. His prior experience includes working on enterprise technologies with the City of Boston and supporting the technology needs of Massachusetts communities with the Commonwealth.

Melinda (Mindy) Johnson

Documents & Communications Accessibility Coordinator, Executive Office of Technology Services & Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Melinda "Mindy" Johnson coordinates the accessibility activities for documents and communications as part of the central accessibility team for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. She is a former special education teacher and education-focused communications professional with over two decades of experience creating and publishing accessible documents and communications. She was responsible for the accessibility of web content, documents, social media posts, newsletters, multimedia, and more while maintaining engaging communications at a rapid pace.

Peter Murphy

Assistant Comptroller, Chief Information Officer, Office of the Comptroller, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Peter is an experienced technology leader for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  Most of Peter’s career has been in the Office of the Comptroller in Boston, where he has responsibility for high level IT strategy; identifying areas of cyber risk; as well as implementing risk strategy applications to mitigate those risks. Peter was a member of the original CTR Team responsible for implementing the CTHRU application into the Commonwealth’s website allowing the public to view for the first time how its dollars are spent and resources are allocated. 

Sue Wunderlee

Digital Accessibility Program Manager, Department of Transportation, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Sue Wunderlee is a major advocate for digital accessibility and inclusion, guiding policy for MassDOT.
Sue is the Digital Accessibility Program Manager for MassDOT. In that role she ensures that IT procurements meet the Commonwealth’s accessibility standards and works closely with EOTSS to manage the implementation of digital accessibility and equity guidelines and policies.
Sue leads the MassDOT Digital Services department, with a focus on ensuring that digital information and services are available to everyone. She also Chairs the MassDOT/MBTA Accessible Technology Advisory Committee, which works to raise awareness and provide support across both agencies.
Sue has been MassDOT’s Digital Services Manager since 2009. Prior to that, she was the Webmaster for the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. Her experience also includes working in the private sector, higher ed, and non-profit organizations. She is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a BA in Mass Media Communications.

View Speakers

Agenda

Thursday, September 18
8:00 am Eastern	Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area Meeting Room 205ABC
9:00 am Eastern	Opening Remarks Meeting Room 210ABC Jason Snyder, Secretary of Technology, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
9:30 am Eastern	Keynote – Find Your Fight: Innovating When the Odds Are Against You Meeting Room 210ABC In moments when challenges feel insurmountable, and the odds are stacked against us, how do we find the will to fight—and win? In this powerful and energizing talk, Jessica O. Matthews shares how the most groundbreaking innovations often emerge from struggle, uncertainty, and adversity. Drawing from her own journey as a pioneering entrepreneur and inventor, Jessica explores how resilience, creativity, and relentless problem-solving can transform even the toughest setbacks into opportunities for impact and growth. This session will help you reframe challenges as opportunities for breakthrough innovation, develop resilience during moments of struggle, and uncover determination to keep fighting for transformative solutions. Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate
10:30 am Eastern	General Session – Government Services Game Changer – From Legacy to Legend Meeting Room 210ABC Discover how Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance embraced modern technologies, overcame legacy infrastructure challenges, and is building a foundation for responsive, efficient digital government through the Employment Modernization Transformation (EMT) project. Learn how this multi-year initiative is transforming unemployment services—and what’s ahead on the modernization roadmap. Anthony Fantasia, Chief Information Officer, Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
11:00 am Eastern	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Meeting Room 205ABC
11:30 am Eastern	Concurrent Sessions Doing More with Less: Real World Cost-Effective Modernization Strategies Meeting Room 206B Public-sector IT leaders are under increasing pressure to modernize systems with limited resources and budgets. This session explores proven strategies and methodologies for advancing and continuing IT modernization efforts in financially constrained environments. Learn how agencies are driving down costs, optimizing performance, and keeping critical projects moving forward—even when resources are limited. Moderator: Erica Patterson, Vice President of Events, Government Technology Erin Botelho, Chief Information Officer, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Steven Duncan, Chief Information Officer, Judiciary, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Peter Murphy, Assistant Comptroller/Chief Information Officer, Office of the Comptroller, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Michael Hamel, Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology, City of Worcester From Data Sharing to Decision-Making: Modern Strategies for a Connected Data-Driven Commonwealth Meeting Room 207 How do we transform fragmented government data into connected intelligence that drives better decisions, improves citizen services, and creates transparent, accountable governance? This session explores the complete data transformation journey - from establishing robust governance frameworks to implementing secure data sharing strategies that enable breakthrough insights and measurable impact across state and local government. Maura Brown, Data Strategy Director, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Designing Next-Gen Digital Services and Experiences Meeting Room 208 Constituent expectations are evolving—and so must the way government delivers digital services. This session explores how IT teams are designing modern, accessible, and user-centered digital experiences that drive engagement and trust. Learn how digital engagement teams are tackling design challenges, innovating across platforms, and creating services that meet people where they are. Journey to the Dark Web Meeting Room 209 Step into the world of cyber threats in this interactive session designed to raise awareness and strengthen cybersecurity practices across the public sector. Participants will experience a guided demo of information found on the dark web, engage with a panel of experts during an open Q&A, and take part in a collaborative group exercise to create a one-page public service announcement on password protection. Walk away with practical insights and tools to better safeguard your organization and constituents. Moderator: John Petrozzelli, Director, MassCyberCenter Accessibility Training and Tools to Assess Compliance with ADA Title II Meeting Room 211 Is your team prepared to meet ADA Title II accessibility requirements to deliver inclusive digital experiences? This session explores how to leverage training, automated and manual tools, and assistive technology to complement and augment testing efforts. These tools, in conjunction with additional manual testing checks, will identify accessibility violations and measure compatibility with assistive technologies. Along with a discussion of AI and accessibility, we will also discuss tools and techniques to fix accessibility violations. Attendees will leave with practical and actionable steps to apply to testing and remediation efforts and integrate digital accessibility into software and document creation and remediation. Moderator: Brian Chase, Secretariat IT Accessibility Officer, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Ashley Bloom, Chief IT Accessibility Officer, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Adam Gojanovich, Accessibility Specialist, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Melinda (Mindy) Johnson, Documents & Communications Accessibility Coordinator, Executive Office of Technology Services & Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Sue Wunderlee, Digital Accessibility Program Manager, Department of Transportation, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
12:30 pm Eastern	Lunch Meeting Room 210ABC
1:25 pm Eastern	Short Break Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.
1:30 pm Eastern	Concurrent Sessions Measuring What Matters: Strategies for Program Effectiveness Meeting Room 206B Effective program management starts with value-driven decision-making that measures and predicts outcomes. This session explores best practices for defining project milestones, identifying the right data and insights for analysis, and focusing on value throughout the project lifecycle. Learn how to manage expectations and track meaningful metrics to maximize impact and ensure your initiatives deliver tangible results. Communicating Change for IT Success Meeting Room 207 Clear, consistent communication is essential for driving IT change across the public sector. This session explores how to translate technical initiatives into business-friendly language, unify fragmented policies and formats, and engage non-IT stakeholders effectively. Learn practical strategies to ensure your message lands, builds buy-in, and supports successful modernization efforts. David Whitman, Deputy Secretariat Chief Information Officer, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Preparing the Workforce for What’s Next Meeting Room 208 As technology evolves, so must the public-sector workforce. This session explores how agencies can build resilient, adaptable teams through cross-training, succession planning, and innovative approaches to learning and career development—while leveraging tools like AI to enhance, not replace, human capability. Whether you're navigating the talent gap, redefining your role, or planning for continuity, discover strategies to build teams where people and technology work hand-in-hand and thrive in today’s dynamic tech environment. Moderator: Erica Patterson, Vice President of Events, Government Technology Kerry Jordan, Chief of Staff, Department of Innovation and Technology, City of Boston Power in Partnership: Advancing Collaboration and Shared Services Meeting Room 209 Effective cross-agency collaboration and shared services are key to driving efficiency, reducing duplication, and enabling innovation in the public sector. This session explores how states are operationalizing shared services—from procurement strategies and lifecycle planning to leveraging shared licenses and MSAs. Learn how to embed collaboration into IT planning and procurement to unlock long-term value and deliver better outcomes across agencies. Colby Cousens, Co-Founder, North Shore IT Collaborative, and Chief Information Officer, Town of Danvers Borana (Bora) Hajnaj, Director of Contract Management & Special Counsel, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Radha Iyer, Director of IT Portfolio Operations, Executive Office for Administration and Finance, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Exclusive Briefing for Industry Partners Meeting Room 211 Hosted by: State of Massachusetts
2:30 pm Eastern	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Meeting Room 205ABC
3:00 pm Eastern	The Massachusetts Excellence in Technology Awards Meeting Room 210ABC
3:20 pm Eastern	The Massachusetts Technology Challenge: A Public Sector Trivia Showdown Meeting Room 210ABC Join us for a fun and engaging closing session where we’ll put your knowledge to the test with an interactive trivia game! This session will be a perfect mix of learning and laughter, highlighting key themes from the event and fun facts about Massachusetts. Don’t miss this chance to reflect, gain new perspectives, and wrap up the conference on a high note! Are you ready to challenge yourself and lead your team to victory? Erica Bradshaw, Deputy Secretary, Executive Office of Technology Services and Security, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Susan Cantrell, Enterprise Communications Lead, IT Strategy Office, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Curt Curry, IT Director, Town of Mashpee Samuel John, Senior Director of IT – App Ops, Department of Transportation, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
4:00 pm Eastern	Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area Meeting Room 205ABC Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.
4:30 pm Eastern	End of Conference Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

415 Summer Street
Boston, MA 02210
(877) 393-3393

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Advisory Board

Government Representatives

David Bedard
Chief Information Officer
Department of Transportation
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Eric Belford
Deputy Chief Information Officer
City of Cambridge

Erin Botelho
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Health & Human Services
MA Executive Office of Health & Human Services

Erica Bradshaw
Deputy Secretary
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Donald Chamberlain
COO, Assistant Secretary for Security and Operations
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Bing Chen
SCIO
Executive Office of Veterans Services
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

William Cole
Chief Technology Officer
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Thomas Cream
IT Director
Mass State Lottery Commission

Steven Duncan
Chief Information Officer
Judiciary
MA Executive Office of the Trial Court

Anthony Fantasia
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Labor & Workforce Development
MA Executive Office of Labor & Workforce Development

Santiago Garces
Chief Information Officer
Department of Innovation & Technology
City of Boston

Ramon Garcia
Chief Information Officer
Information Technologies
City of Chelsea

Michael Hamel
Chief Information Officer
Department of Innovation & Technology
City of Worcester

Antoine Harrison
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Education
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Mehreen Hassan
Deputy Chief Technology Officer
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Robin Healey
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office for Administration & Finance
MA Executive Office for Administration & Finance

Kerry Jordan
Chief of Staff
Department of Innovation & Technology
City of Boston

Josh Macneil
IT Director
Technology Services
Town of Whitman

Greg Martin
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs
MA Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs

Thomas Meier
Chief Information Officer
Office of the State Auditor
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Maria Michalski
Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Public Safety & Security
MA Executive Office of Public Safety & Security

Michael Milligan
Vice President & Chief Information Officer
University of Massachusetts

Matthew Moran
Assistant Secretary and Chief Engagement Officer
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Peter Murphy
Chief Information Officer
Office of the Comptroller
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Thomas Myers
Chief Privacy Officer & General Counsel
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Anthony O'Neill
CISO & Chief Risk Officer
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Devyn Paros
Chief Digital Officer
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Jorge Pazos
Director
Information Technology
City of Revere

John Petrozzelli
Director
MassCyberCenter

Jessica Powers
Director of Internal Communications
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Cheri Rolfes
Chief of Staff
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Dan Sionkiewicz
Secretariat Chief Information Officer
Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities
MA Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities

Jason Snyder
Secretary & Commonwealth CIO
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Michelle Vaughn
Assistant Secretary of Strategy and Planning
Executive Office of Technology Services & Security
MA Executive Office of Technology Services & Security

Feng Yang
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology Department
Township of Brookline