This one-day event is designed to convene leaders and innovators from across the state to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in higher education information technology. As institutions continue to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, cybersecurity, online learning, and data management, this summit offers a place for collaboration, learning, and strategic planning.
The Higher Education IT Leadership Summit is more than just an event; it's a strategic gathering of minds dedicated to shaping the future of technology in academia. The summit looks to help support change, inspire innovation, and equip participants with the knowledge and connections needed to lead their institutions through the IT challenges and opportunities currently in front of them and ahead of them.
Objectives:
Who Should Attend:
Why Attend:
Thursday, October 10 |
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8:00 am Eastern |
Registration and Light BreakfastWoodruff Room, Lobby Level, 2nd Floor |
9:00 am Eastern |
Welcome and IntroductionsWoodruff Room |
9:05 am Eastern |
Addressing Emerging Cyber Threats and Improving Cyber ReadinessWoodruff RoomAs cyber threats rapidly evolve, higher education IT leaders face increasing pressure to safeguard their institutions while maintaining operational continuity. This panel will focus on how Georgia’s higher education institutions can bolster their cybersecurity posture by adopting proactive strategies and aligning with the latest frameworks, such as NIST CSF 2.0. This session will provide practical insights and tools for IT leaders to stay ahead of cyber threats, ensuring their institutions remain resilient in an increasingly complex digital landscape. Panelists will: Moderator: John Matelski, Executive Director Center for Digital Education and former Chief Information Officer of DeKalb County, Georgia Charles McCants, Executive Director, Information Technology, Gwinnett Tech. College Jeffrey Smith, Director of Information Technology, Atlanta Technical College |
10:00 am Eastern |
Break |
10:20 am Eastern |
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing IT Leadership and Board Collaboration in Higher EdWoodruff RoomEffective collaboration between IT leaders and university/college boards is essential for advancing technology initiatives and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This session will explore strategies to foster strong, productive relationships between IT leadership and boards, equipping board members with the knowledge and insights they need to make informed decisions. Panel speakers will provide insights for both IT leaders on how to foster stronger alignment and collaboration in the strategic use of technology in higher education. The discussion will cover: Moderator: Brian Cohen, Vice President, Center for Digital Education Steven Ferguson, Managing Director, AIM: Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing, Georgia Institute of Technology John Matelski, Executive Director Center for Digital Education and former Chief Information Officer of DeKalb County, Georgia |
11:10 am Eastern |
The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Higher EducationWoodruff RoomAs AI continues to revolutionize all sectors, higher education institutions can significantly benefit from its transformative potential. This session will provide strategic frameworks, priority areas, and critical considerations for successful AI adoption. Attendees will gain actionable insights and practical strategies to implement AI technologies effectively, address ethical and security concerns, and meet the evolving needs of the educational community. Panelists will discuss: Moderator: Dr. Deona Carter, Director of eCampus, Technical College System of Georgia Jaroslav Klc, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Development at Georgia State University’s Instructional Innovation and Technology Department, Georgia State Kelly Steed, Ph.D., Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs, University System of Georgia |
12:00 pm Eastern |
Morning Wrap-up |
12:05 pm Eastern |
LunchWoodruff Room |
1:00 pm Eastern |
Enhancing Talent Management in Higher Education ITWoodruff RoomIn the dynamic field of higher education IT, recruiting, retaining, and managing a skilled workforce is essential for driving innovation and maintaining operational excellence. This panel session will explore strategies and best practices for positioning higher education IT teams at the forefront of technological leadership, including: Moderator: Brian Cohen, Vice President, Center for Digital Education John Wilson, Chief Information Officer & Vice President for Technology Services, Spelman College Phil Ventimiglia, Chief Innovation Officer & Vice President, Instructional Innovation & Technology, Georgia State |
1:50 pm Eastern |
Industry Tech Talk - AI in Higher Education – What Tech Partners Need Higher Education to KnowWoodruff RoomThis session of leading technology experts, from the partner community, is designed to allow the sharing of invaluable insights into the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. This session will provide higher education IT leaders with information on emerging opportunities and national trends poised to influence their world. Panel speakers will share their views on the latest AI advancements, explore the transformative potential of this cutting-edge technology, discuss strategic approaches to leveraging AI for institutional success, and offer advice on how industry can be strategic partners. This fireside chat is designed to help attendees stay ahead of the curve, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape and strategically plan for the future. Key topics will include: Moderator: Brian Cohen, Vice President, Center for Digital Education Brad Cobbs, Principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP Lukman Ramsey, Head of AI Solutions, Public Sector and Education, Google |
2:45 pm Eastern |
Break |
3:00 pm Eastern |
Around the Room Conversation: What else needs to be on the IT Priority List?Woodruff RoomIn this transformative and fast-paced era of higher education technology, the IT priority list is continually evolving. From cybersecurity to infrastructure upgrades, institutions are juggling a myriad of critical projects. But what else deserves a spot on this ever-growing list? In this rapid-fire group conversation, we will identify what requires more time, conversation, focus, and leadership within IT organizations, as well as the critical roles that are essential for the success of these important initiatives. |
3:30 pm Eastern |
Closing Thoughts and Wrap UpConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
3391 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 365-0065
Justin Allmon
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Deona Carter
Director of eCampus
Office of Information Technology & Data Resources
Technical College System of Georgia
Steven Ferguson
Managing Director
AIM: Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing
Georgia Institute of Technology
Jeffrey Smith
Director of Information Technology
Atlanta Technical College
Casey Thompson
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
Phil Ventimiglia
Chief Innovation Officer & Vice President
Instructional Innovation & Technology
Georgia State
Robbie Vickers
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
Technical College System of Georgia
John Wilson
Chief Information Officer & Vice President for Technology Services
Spelman College
Steven Ferguson
Managing Director
AIM: Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing
Georgia Institute of Technology
Open to Public Sector only.
Registration - Free
If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.
For registration and general assistance contact:
Lindsay Anthis
Center for Digital Education
Phone: (916) 932-1495
E-mail: lanthis@erepublic.com
For assistance or questions concerning Sponsor Logos or Logistics please contact:
Mireya Gaton
Center for Digital Education
Phone: (916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact:
Heather Earney
Center for Digital Education
Phone: (916) 932-1339
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com