Chicago Regional Digital Government Summit 2025
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!
I am delighted to welcome you to the 8th Annual Chicago Regional Digital Government Summit! As we navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape of 2025, this summit offers an invaluable opportunity for regional IT leaders to collaborate on our shared challenges. This year, we'll explore how to strengthen our cybersecurity posture, advance our data governance frameworks and responsibly implement AI solutions that enhance resident services. The partnerships and knowledge exchange that happen at this summit continue to be vital as we work to create more resilient, efficient and inclusive digital government services. I encourage all regional technology leaders to take full advantage of this opportunity to connect with peers and industry experts. I look forward to seeing you there and learning together!
– Tom Lynch, Chief Information Officer, Cook County Government
Speakers
Richard Burnson
Deputy Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, DuPage County
Richard Burnson is a strategic technology executive with over 25 years of leadership experience driving digital transformation in public sector and education. Currently serving as Deputy CIO for DuPage County Government, Richard previously was the Executive Director of Infrastructure Services at Chicago Public Schools. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives including a groundbreaking fiber network project, comprehensive cybersecurity enhancements, and large-scale deployments supporting educational equity. Known for his collaborative leadership approach and strategic vision, Richard excels at building high-performing teams, developing cross-agency partnerships, and implementing innovative technology solutions that create lasting impact. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration - Management Information Systems from Governors State University and has earned an Executive Scholar certificate at Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management.
Bruce Coffing
Chief Information Security Officer, City of Chicago
Bruce Coffing is an information security professional with over twenty-five years industry experience in information technology and cyber security. He is currently the Chief Information Security Officer for the City of Chicago. Prior to joining the City of Chicago, Mr. Coffing held information security positions at Bank of America and at consulting firm Accenture. Mr. Coffing holds the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification and is a Qualified Technology Expert (QTE).
Mr. Coffing was a Finalist for the 2023 ChicagoCIO ORBIE CISO of the Year Award and was a Semi-finalist for the 2022 Chicago CISO of the Year Award.
Joel Inwood
Deputy Director of Communications, Cook County Bureau of Technology
Joel Inwood is the Deputy Director of Communications in the Cook County Bureau of Technology (BOT), an office under County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. He started work in BOT as a Public Information Officer 10 years ago. He has a master's degree in communications from Johns Hopkins University. He volunteers with the Alliance of Civic Technologists and Chi Hack Night.
Waseem Khan
Chief Information Officer, City of Rolling Meadow
Waseem is the Chief Information Officer at the City of Rolling Meadows. With his 27 years plus experience in Information Technology, he oversees all aspects of technology in the City. He received his Master’s degree from Keller Graduate School specializing in IT Management and Information Security. Over the years, Waseem’s skillset and knowledge have garnered him a lot of recognition, which is how he was able to be elected as the Vice President of Management for GMIS-Illinois in Nov. 2022.
Anthony McPhearson
Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, DuPage County
Anthony McPhearson is an accomplished Chief Information Officer and passionate IT executive with over 23 years of experience driving digital transformation, operational excellence, and enterprise-wide technology modernization. As CIO of DuPage County, he leads the strategic vision, cybersecurity posture, and service delivery for one of Illinois’ largest counties, empowering government operations through secure, resilient, and citizen-focused IT solutions.
Known for his ability to bridge innovation with execution, Anthony has successfully led initiatives in cloud modernization, artificial intelligence, ERP optimization, and omnichannel service platforms. His leadership fosters data-informed decision-making and long-term technology planning, ensuring sustainable growth and improved outcomes for internal departments and the communities they serve.
In addition to his CIO role, Anthony is the President of McPhearson Group, a professional services and executive search firm that provides tailored IT recruiting solutions nationwide. His dual leadership roles highlight his unique perspective on building high-performing teams, managing complex projects, and cultivating public-private technology partnerships.
Anthony is particularly passionate about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. He champions responsible innovation while advancing secure digital ecosystems. He is a trusted advisor among public sector peers, recognized for transforming challenges into strategic opportunities and aligning IT investments with mission-critical goals.
His achievements include winning the Trendsetter of the Year Award from Accela in 2022 and the AITP Most Effective Team Award, which honors outstanding innovation and performance in public sector IT leadership.
Key Areas of Expertise:
Strategic IT Leadership
AI-Driven Innovation
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Cloud and Infrastructure Modernization
Digital Government Services
Public Sector Transformation
Vendor & Contract Management
Enterprise Program & Service Management
Talent Development & Workforce Strategy
Lewis Waldia Powell
Deputy Budget Director - Data Analytics Division, City of Chicago
Lewis Powell has been at Chicago’s City Hall for over a decade. As the leader of the Data Analytics Division, he and his team in the Office of Budget and Management are using data to transform City operations and build an organizational culture of data driven policies.
Omar Sandoval
Chief Information Officer, Government Technology
Omar Sandoval is the Chief Information Officer for Government Technology, a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government. Prior to joining the Center, Omar was the Director of Information Technology for the Naperville Park District.
Omar has won numerous awards which include a Distinguished Services Award, by the Naperville Jaycees; Four Under 40 Achievement Award, presented by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce which recognizes young who demonstrate excellence based on leadership in the community, business leadership, and career and life balance. Government Technology magazine honored Omar with awards for Technology Innovations in the Park District Operations and Citizens categories; Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers and a Leadership Innovation Award for his efforts in assisting his own organization and others to start eSports leagues during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Omar earned his Master of Science degree in Business Analytics with a concentration in Business Administration from Benedictine University. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at the College of DuPage in the Computer and Information Technology department.
Mark Shipman
Deputy Chief Information Security Officer, Information Security Office, Bureau of Technology, Cook County
Mark has been a technology and security professional for over 30 years. He began his career building security technology to protect electrical power grids and nuclear generation facilities. From there he moved to the financial sector working in stock and option trading security before joining the Internet boom where he built security solutions for large online retailers in the early days of e-commerce. Since then, he brought his experience to various global organizations in pharmaceuticals, talent management and media, higher education, marketing services, and HR/financial/management consulting. His government experience includes roles at the City of Chicago and Cook County Health. He is currently the Deputy CISO of Cook County.
Mark Taghap
Chief Information Security Officer, City of Aurora
Mark Taghap is the Chief Information Security Officer for the City of Aurora, bringing 25 years of experience as a Network Engineer, Information Technology Manager, and Director of Information Technology across various industries, including manufacturing, private equity, engineering, telecom, and consulting. He was an instrumental part on projects with Illinois Department of Transportation, IL Tollway, and Cook County Office of Capital Planning.
In the past 6 years, he’s added cybersecurity to his repertoire of skillsets, focusing on risk assessment, mitigation, penetration testing, incident response plans, and vendor due diligence. Being a more technical CISO, he also works closely with Infrastructure and Operations teams to continue evolving the City of Aurora’s infrastructure and cybersecurity posture.
Mark earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management at Northern Illinois University in 1999. He completed the Cybersecurity Professional Program at the University of Michigan in 2022 and graduated in the Post Graduate Program in Cybersecurity at the University of Texas (Austin) in 2023.
Marc Thorson
Director of Regional Technology Services, Northern Illinois University
Marc Thorson is the Executive Director of Regional Technology Services in the Division of Information Technology for Northern Illinois University. He oversees all aspects of NIU’s broadband initiatives, Internet Service, and other technology service offerings to local communities. Prior to joining NIU, Marc has worked for over 20 years in local government Information Technology for 3 different municipalities. He has earned a Master of Business Administration degree from NIU. In addition to supporting open access broadband initiatives, he assists the NIU Center for Governmental Studies group on consulting work and is an instructor for NIU’s Master of Public Administration program teaching the Information Technology for Public and Nonprofit Organizations course.
Ram Tyagi
Chief Information Officer, City of Aurora
Ram Tyagi is a seasoned technology leader with a proven track record in IT management, security governance, and strategic transformation. With deep expertise in cloud computing, data modernization, and emerging technologies, he has successfully led large-scale, enterprise-wide initiatives that deliver agility, scalability, and cost efficiency. Ram has managed strategic roadmaps and budgets for his department with efficiency, transparency, and agility. Ram excels in developing secure, future-ready technology ecosystems, leveraging automation to streamline operations, and integrating AI and machine learning to drive business value. He brings extensive experience managing complex vendor relationships and ensuring alignment with organizational goals and operational excellence.
Known for fostering a start-up and collaboration mindset, Ram champions innovation, encourages experimentation, and leads with agility and a relentless focus on quality. His leadership has consistently enabled the successful delivery of complex projects in dynamic and fast-evolving environments including some projects in federal government space. Throughout his career, Ram has built and empowered high-performing, cross-functional teams while cultivating a culture of continuous learning. His commitment to staying ahead of emerging technology trends and security best practices has helped organizations achieve impactful, scalable transformations.
Arantxa Valverde
Director of Gender Equity & Venture Partnerships, World Business Chicago
Arantxa Valverde is the Director of Gender Equity and Venture Partnerships at World Business Chicago, where she leads initiatives to foster inclusive innovation and equitable access across the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. With a background in early-stage startup development from her time at 1871, Arantxa brings a deep commitment to building bridges between communities, resources, and opportunities. She is passionate about creating systems that empower individuals in their everyday lives and takes pride in her role as a connector and ecosystem builder. Outside of work, she is an avid reader and runner, currently training for the Chicago Marathon.
Jackie White
National Conference Director, Government Technology
Agenda
Tuesday, June 3 |
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8:00 am Central |
Registration and Morning RefreshmentsGrand Ballroom A and Foyer |
9:00 am Central |
Welcome & Event Opening CeremoniesGrand Ballroom BCJackie White, National Conference Director, GovTech |
9:10 am Central |
Opening RemarksGrand Ballroom BCNick Lucius, Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, City of Chicago Tom Lynch, Chief Information Officer, Cook County |
9:20 am Central |
Keynote - Think Like a Futurist: Turning Trends into OpportunitiesGrand Ballroom BCLeaders must embrace futures thinking to see the signals and trends shaping our world, and to anticipate how we can transform and uncover new opportunities. This session helps you develop foresight to address the most common challenges facing the public sector: evolving constituent expectations, emerging tech, sustainability, misinformation, privacy, security, global megatrends, and domestic shifts in economies, workforces, and societal movements. Nikolas Badminton will guide you through futurist tools and techniques, teaching you to identify signals and trends, harness strategic foresight, and unlock resiliency by shifting your perspective from what is to WHAT IF… Nik Badminton, Chief Futurist and Hope Engineer |
10:20 am Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom A and Foyer |
10:50 am Central |
Concurrent SessionsEnterprise Architecture as a Catalyst for InnovationStateAs public sector organizations continue to expand their technology ecosystems; enterprise architects face the challenge of cleaning up and integrating the very systems they’ve spent years building (or inheriting). Legacy infrastructure, sprawling data environments, and fragmented technology stacks can lead to inefficiencies, security risks, and operational silos. This session will explore strategies for streamlining enterprise architecture, addressing technical debt, and ensuring that technology and processes are seamlessly woven into a cohesive, scalable system. Moderator: Omar Sandoval, Chief Information Officer, Government Technology Deborah Anderson, Enterprise Architecture Lead, City of Chicago Anthony Ardolino, IT Director, Village of Tinley Park Trever Johnson, Head of Customer Engineering, US Central SLED, Google Public Sector Hema Sundaram, Chief Technology Officer, Cook County Mark Taghap, Chief Information Security Officer, City of Aurora Managing Insider Threats: Detecting and Mitigating Risks from Within Your OrganizationOgdenInsider threats are one of the most complex risks organizations face today. This panel discussion will explore various potential insider threats, from supply chain vulnerabilities introduced by foreign entities offering discounted tech, to HR risks posed by disgruntled employees seeking to harm cloud-based assets. Do your current policies effectively safeguard against these unique threats? Hear from your peers that have experienced both intentional and accidental insider threats, and can offer practical strategies for detecting risks, strengthening controls, and minimizing potential damage. Moderator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, Government Technology Bruce Coffing, Chief Information Security Officer, City of Chicago Jon Holcomb, Director of Cybersecurity Consulting, U.S. West, AHEAD Chuck Ruehling, Chief Information Security Officer, Information Security Office, Bureau of Technology, Cook County Doing More with Less: Maximizing IT Partnerships for Government EfficiencyVan BurenWith funding cuts impacting IT operations for many throughout the region, this session will address key challenges such as sustaining services while managing limited resources, reducing cloud costs, and handling license management without compromising service delivery. Attendees will gain insights into effectively managing outsourcing agreements, fostering enhanced vendor collaboration, and navigating the complexities of funding discussions with elected officials and decision-makers. By examining best practices and strategic partnerships, this session aims to provide actionable solutions for maximizing government efficiency through optimal IT partnerships. Moderator: Waseem Khan, Chief Information Officer, City of Rolling Meadow Jason Donisch, Chief Information Officer, Information, Communications and Technology Director, Will County Lewis Waldia Powell, Deputy Budget Director, Data Analytics Division, City of Chicago Mark Shipman, Deputy Chief Information Security Officer, Information Security Office, Bureau of Technology, Cook County Achieving Digital AccessibilityMonroeAre you prepared for the upcoming federal mandate on digital accessibility? By April 2026, all state and local government websites and mobile applications must meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA to provide equal access for individuals with disabilities. How can public agencies not only comply but also enhance user experiences for all citizens? In this session, discover practical strategies to bring your digital platforms into compliance. Hear firsthand from public sector leaders who are successfully navigated this mandate, as they share their experiences in assessing digital content, identifying accessibility gaps, and implementing best practices. By the end of the session, you’ll have more resources and knowledge to comply with the mandate and ways to integrate accessibility into your digital development workflows. Moderator: John Matelski, Executive Director, Center for Digital Government Richard Burnson, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, DuPage County Joel Inwood, Deputy Director of Communications, Cook County Bureau of Technology Christian Taylor, Director of Digital Equity, Office of the Mayor, City of Chicago |
11:50 am Central |
Make your way to the Ballroom for Lunch |
12:00 pm Central |
LunchGrand Ballroom BC |
12:45 pm Central |
General Session – The Glass Ceiling: We All Play a Role in Breaking ITGrand Ballroom BCDespite significant progress, women in technology continue to face barriers to advancement, and the glass ceiling remains a challenging hurdle in many organizations – public, and private. This session will dive deep into why this barrier persists and how we can work together to dismantle it. Panelists will explore ways to create an inclusive environment where skills, not biases, take center stage. We’ll also discuss what resources are needed to support women in overcoming these barriers—whether it's mentorship, training, or a shift in organizational culture. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the challenges women face in tech, ways to be an ally in action, and actionable steps to foster an environment where women can thrive and reach their full potential. Moderator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, Government Technology Hema Sundaram, Chief Technology Officer, Cook County Arantxa Valverde, Director of Gender Equity and Venture Partnerships, World Business Chicago |
1:10 pm Central |
Short BreakPlease proceed to the concurrent sessions. |
1:30 pm Central |
Concurrent SessionsBeyond the Hype: GenAI for Real-World ImpactStateAs AI technologies continue to become a staple in our IT toolkits, we’re still discovering the best ways to apply them for meaningful, real-world outcomes—while ensuring compliance with policies and NIST standards. From predictive analytics in public safety to automating routine tasks, enhancing citizen engagement, and streamlining document generation, AI is already driving impactful change in the public sector. In this session, hear from public sector leaders who have navigated data privacy concerns, tackled ethical challenges, and successfully integrated GenAI into their existing systems. Moderator: Omar Sandoval, Chief Information Officer, Government Technology Ngbede Otowo, Manager of Governance, Risk, and Compliance, Bureau of Technology, Cook County Rahul K Patel, Director of Cybersecurity, Cook County Bala Vaithyalingam, WW Leader for Data & AI Solutions, IBM Law Enforcement + Public Safety and ITOgdenThe integration of cutting-edge IT solutions is revolutionizing how law enforcement and emergency services address crime, disasters, and emergencies. From real-time data collection through license plate readers to AI-driven surveillance and predictive analytics, technology is shaping a safer, more efficient future for communities and law enforcement personnel. However, these advancements also raise critical challenges related to data privacy, security, and ethics. This session will delve into the latest IT innovations transforming public safety, analyze the complexities involved in their adoption, and present best practices for navigating the associated challenges in this rapidly evolving field. Moderator: John Matelski, Executive Director, Center for Digital Government Anthony McPhearson, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, DuPage County Amar Patel, Chief Information Officer, Cook County Sherrif's Office Tech Talent Recruitment and RetentionVan BurenAs the workforce landscape evolves, attracting and retaining top talent has become a critical challenge for organizations, especially the public sector. How do we help ensure that the people in our region have access to training so they are qualified for these high-demand, well-paying jobs in the IT sector? Where can individuals go to hone their skills if they’re looking to advance in their tech-career? This session will explore strategies for equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive in the expanding tech workforce, highlighting key programs and initiatives that foster growth and bridge the skills gap. Moderator: Marc Thorson, Director of Regional Technology Services, Northern Illinois University Ram Tyagi, Chief Information Officer, City of Aurora Matt Morton, Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, University of Chicago Exclusive Briefing for Industry PartnersMonroeModerator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, Government Technology Bruce Coffing, Chief Information Security Officer, City of Chicago Nick Lucius, Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, City of Chicago Tom Lynch, Chief Information Officer, Cook County Chuck Ruehling, Chief Information Security Officer, Cook County |
2:30 pm Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom A and Foyer |
3:00 pm Central |
General Session – Think Like a Local: What’s Next in Chicagoland TechGrand Ballroom BCChicago-area public sector IT leaders are committed to a constituent-first approach in all we do. As we begin leading the nation in quantum technology, what will this mean for the people of our region? How do each of us look at the responsibility we have in facing the future of evolving constituent expectations, emerging tech, sustainability, misinformation, privacy, security, global megatrends, and domestic shifts in economies, workforces, and societal movements right here at home? Join our panelists for a discussion on how we confront these challenges from a local perspective in an interconnected world. Moderator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, Government Technology Bruce Coffing, Chief Information Security Officer, City of Chicago Nick Lucius, Commissioner and Chief Information Officer, City of Chicago Tom Lynch, Chief Information Officer, Cook County Chuck Ruehling, Chief Information Security Officer, Cook County |
3:55 pm Central |
Closing Remarks |
4:00 pm Central |
Networking Reception in the Exhibit AreaGrand Ballroom A and FoyerNetwork with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors. |
4:30 pm Central |
End of ConferenceConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
JW Marriott Chicago
151 West Adams Street
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 660-8200
JW Marriott Chicago
Advisory Board
Government Representatives
Chris Blanding
Chief Information Officer
Lake County
Adam Clement
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Bureau of Technology
Cook County
Bruce Coffing
Chief Information Security Officer
Bureau of Information Technology
City of Chicago
Jason Donisch
Chief Information Officer
Information, Communications & Technology Director
Will County
Roger Fahnestock
Chief Information Officer
Kane County
Joel Inwood
Public Information Officer
Bureau of Technology
Cook County
Raymond Kay
Homeland Security Branch Chief
Cook County
Waseem Khan
Chief Information Officer
City of Rolling Meadows
Matthew Kinsey
IT Director
Technology Services
Kendall County
Charles Lasky
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Kane County
Glen Liljeberg
Director of Information Technology
Village of Westmont
Nick Lucius
Acting Chief Information Officer
Office of the Mayor
City of Chicago
Tom Lynch
Chief Information Officer
Cook County
Anthony McPhearson
Chief Information Officer
DuPage County
Jacqueline Nguyen
Director
Department of Information Technology
City of Naperville
Bryan Pravel
Technology Information Officer
Cook County Health
Charles Ruehling
Chief Information Security Officer
Cook County
Peter Schaak
Director of Information Technology
Village of Schaumburg
Chris Sternal
Chief Information Officer
City of Joliet
Tom Sullivan
Chief Information Officer
McHenry County
Hema Sundaram
Chief Technology Officer
Bureau of Technology
Cook County
Mark Taghap
Chief Information Security Officer
Information Technology Division
City of Aurora
Derrick Thomas
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Bureau of Technology
Cook County
Marc Thorson
Director of Regional Technology Services
Northern Illinois University
Rod Warren
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Bureau of Information Technology
City of Chicago
Industry Representatives
James Northern
Client Leader, Lead Account Partner
IBM
Registration Information / Contact Us
Event Date: June 3, 2025
Open to Public Sector only.
Registration - Free
If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.
Contact Information
For registration and general assistance contact:
Sherri Tidwell
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1382
E-mail: stidwell@erepublic.com
For assistance or questions concerning Sponsor Logos or Logistics please contact:
Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:
Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com