GovAI Coalition Summit 2024 Banner

Overview

The Summit is being hosted by the GovAI Coalition and the City of San José in the San José Convention Center. This significant location positions this event in the heart of Silicon Valley, the global epicenter of AI and technological innovation. Attendees will discover cutting-edge AI trends, ethical practices, data management, and practical applications in public safety, transit, and local government, while exploring inclusive adoption and innovative policy development.

About the GovAI Coalition

The GovAI Coalition membership includes 600+ public servants from 250 local, county and state governments representing approximately 150 million Americans across the nation. The coalition is united in their mission to promote responsible and purposeful AI in the public sector.

The GovAI Coalition is committed to:

  • Using AI for social good;
  • Ensuring ethical, non-discriminatory, and responsible AI governance;
  • Promoting vendor accountability;
  • Improving government services; and
  • Fostering cross-agency collaboration and knowledge sharing.

 

A message from our Keynote Speaker

The Summit will allow current and future GovAI Coalition members to meet in-person for the first time to strategize with public sector IT leaders and elected officials from across the country. Together, we will establish the most efficient, innovative, and responsible uses of AI to serve our communities.


- Khaled Tawfik, Chief Information Officer, City of San Jose, CA

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews

Jessica O. Matthews

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

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 going."
Exclusively 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.

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Quinn Anex-Ries

Quinn Anex-Ries

Senior Policy Analyst, Equity in Civic Technology, Center for Democracy and Technology

Quinn Anex-Ries is a Senior Policy Analyst on CDT’s Equity in Civic Technology team, where he focuses on ensuring that government uses of AI advance equity, mitigate bias, and protect individual rights.
Quinn previously served as a Policy Associate at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, where he contributed to the organization’s work on federal AI policy, especially the implementation of the AI Executive Order. Across this work, Quinn advocated for policy solutions focused on combating algorithmic discrimination and protecting equal opportunity in the online economy.
Quinn holds a Ph.D. in American Studies and Ethnicity from the University of Southern California, where his doctoral research examined the history of technology policy, civil rights, and free expression in the United States. During his graduate studies, Quinn interned with New America’s Open Technology Institute and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Quinn also graduated cum laude from Smith College with a degree in Africana Studies, Chemistry, and Biomathematics.

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Tasha Austin-Williams

Tasha Austin-Williams

Principal – Risk and Financial Advisory, Deloitte

Dr. Tasha Austin-Williams is a Principal within Deloitte's Risk and Financial Advisory business boasting an extensive career of over 25 years in professional services. Her expertise spans the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data analytics across a multitude of domains, including commercial and federal audits, fraud detection and analysis, dispute resolution and investigations, and within the defense and international affairs sector.
Tasha assumes a pivotal role in guiding Deloitte's endeavors within the dynamic domain of Artificial Intelligence. Her distinctive contribution resides in pioneering innovative, insight-driven solutions that catalyze profound transformation for her clients' core missions. Tasha’s day to day role includes serving as the lead business partner actively contributing to the advancement of state diplomacy's critical mission. More broadly, Tasha provides strategic guidance to C-Suite Executives and management across the federal community, aiding them in navigating their agencies' most intricate and distinctive data challenges. Additionally, Tasha is instrumental in assisting organizations in evaluating their readiness for and adoption of AI solutions.
Tasha also serves as the Executive Director of Deloitte's Artificial Intelligence Institute for Government, where she plays a pivotal role in the organization's mission to bolster its capabilities in pivotal domains, particularly in the realm of trustworthy and ethical AI. Her portfolio encompasses the significant task of amplifying Deloitte's thought leadership and digital footprint within the sphere of AI for the public sector. Central to Tasha's mandate is the orchestration of a multifaceted ecosystem, drawing together diverse stakeholders comprising of government executives, leaders in non-profit organizations, academia, policy makers, and technology firms. Tasha also serves as a Professor at Cornell University facilitating the launch of her course - “Leadership in the Algorithmic Era: AI and Public Policy.”
Tasha recently completed her Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence which focuses on using AI to detect human bias to address disparities in higher education and with financial inclusion. Tasha previously earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree in mathematics from North Carolina Central University, her MBA from Howard University, and holds a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence Business Strategy and Applications from University of California, Berkeley underscoring her commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and their practical applications.
Tasha currently serves on several Boards including the Board of Directors for NABA Inc. where she leads the Strategy, Innovation, and Technology Committee, and resides in Bowie, MD with her family. Her notable achievements were acknowledged in 2023 when she was recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders by Women We Admire, and more recently in March 2024, Tasha was recognized by Deloitte as one of the Top 10 Deloitte AI Trailblazers during Women’s History Month.

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Kimberly Barnard

Kimberly Barnard

Senior Buyer – Technology Contracts, Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District

With two decades of experience in the public sector, Kimberly Barnard, CPPB, NIGP-CPP currently serves as the technology buyer for the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District. Her diverse background ranges from intelligence analysis at the Department of Defense to overseeing capital improvements and procurement at the Marin Housing Authority.
As a public procurement professional, Kim is committed to creating and sharing high-quality technology contracts with other public agencies and is passionate about educating vendors on leveraging cooperative contracts for public agency sales. In 2024, she issued 9 cooperative on-call IT professional services contracts in collaboration with Axia Cooperative, and is excited to contribute sharable contracts to the newly formed Bay Area Procurement Alliance.
Kim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Near Eastern Languages and Cultures from Indiana University – Bloomington, attended American University in Beirut’s Graduate Program for Urban Planning and Policy and earned a Certificate in Construction Management from UC Davis. In addition to her role at the Golden Gate Bridge District, she co-chairs the GovAi Coalition’s Cooperative Purchasing Committee and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Procurement Institute.

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Phil Bertolini

Phil Bertolini

Senior Vice President, Government Technology

Phil Bertolini is a senior vice president for Government Technology, the premiere event and thought leadership content provider for state and local government technology professionals. Previously, he served as deputy county executive and CIO for Oakland County, Michigan. During his 31-year tenure, Phil built a world-class IT organization in the second-largest county in Michigan, just north of Detroit. As Oakland County CIO, he oversaw more than 150 employees serving over 1.2 million residents. In 2005, he was also promoted to deputy county executive, holding dual positions until his retirement. Phil’s efforts earned the county national attention, winning numerous awards for technology innovation and excellence. He was named Governing Magazine’s Public Official of the Year and Government Technology Magazine’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers & Drivers. He was also honored by the President Obama White House as a Champion of Change.

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Annie Bui

Annie Bui

President | Student Public Administration Association (SPAA), University of La Verne

Annie Bui is a Doctoral Candidate in Public Administration (DPA), where her research focuses on GenAI readiness in Local Governments. As President of the Student Public Administration Association (SPAA) and a Graduate Assistant in the MPA program at the University of La Verne, she actively contributes to advancing public management education. She also works for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), where she supports small businesses growth and innovation. Drawing on leadership roles at Samsung, First Solar Vietnam, and Toastmaster International, Annie brings a unique perspective to the readiness and adoption state of GenAI in the public sector, with a mission to help public leaders proactively embrace this emerging technological change.

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Kailey Burger Ayogu

Kailey Burger Ayogu

Managing Director, Government Performance Lab, Harvard Kennedy School

Kailey Burger Ayogu is Managing Director at the HKS Government Performance Lab where she leads the Procurement practice which supports local, state, and federal government officials to make procurement more efficient, results-driven, equitable, and strategic. The GPL’s procurement initiatives include the Procurement Excellence Network which provides resources, tools, and peer connections to over 2,000 members, a procurement executive education program at Harvard, as well as direct technical assistance models. Prior to joining the GPL, Kailey served as Assistant Commissioner for the NYC Administration for Children’s Services where she led the design and planning for the child abuse prevention services continuum that serves over 30,000 children and their families each year. Kailey earned her law degree from Washington University in St. Louis, and was a Zuckerman Fellow at the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School while earning her Master’s in Education Policy & Management from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education. Kailey lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband, Nworah, and their two adorable sons.

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Sarah Carrier

Sarah Carrier

Privacy & Responsible AI Program Manager | CIPT, Information Technology, City of Seattle

Sarah has spent the last six years with the City of Seattle growing and maturing the City’s Data Privacy & Surveillance Ordinance Compliance Programs. Now, as the City’s Data Privacy & Responsible AI Program Manager, she helps ensure City departments incorporate best practices into daily operations and public service offerings, in alignment with regulatory and policy frameworks.
Sarah’s interest in the intersection of data privacy, ethics, policy & emerging technology has driven the development of the City of Seattle’s Responsible AI Program. The heart of the program focuses on transparent and responsible enablement of AI tools that will innovate and improve public services for Seattle residents.
Sarah earned her Master’s Degree from the University of Washington in Information Management, specializing in data science and privacy.

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Joe Conti

Joe Conti

AI Trust Leader, Deloitte

Joseph is a seasoned leader with over 23 years of experience in Data Analytics, Risk and Audit. He is an imaginative innovator and inspirational mentor that leads with integrity and passion. He cultivates a trusting and collaborative culture that's highly engaging and maximizes productivities. Joseph is articulate and insightful, enabling him to develop long lasting, trusted relationships with internal teams, external clients and regulators. Joseph is adept at simplifying complex matter into actionable components and utilizing data driven solutions to provide insights to key stakeholders.
Joseph has held various global leadership roles in innovation and analytics over the past 10 years. In January of 2021 he was appointed the Head of Innovation and Analytics for Bank of New York Mellon’s Internal Audit department after a track record of success as the Head of Data, Analytics and Automation for BNY Mellon’s AI department, beginning 2016. Prior to BNY Mellon, Joseph held two global leadership roles at AIG, starting as the Head of Data Analytics within the Internal Audit Department and progressing to the Head of Data Analytics within the Chief Data Office. From 2000 to 2012, Joseph held multiple positions in the Risk Information Services group within Deloitte’s Risk Advisory Services.

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Kathy Cruz

Kathy Cruz LinkedIn

Practice Leader, State, Local and Education Solutions, Mandiant Consulting, Google Public Sector

With more than 30 years of experience in information technology (IT) and cybersecurity, Kathy is a five-time Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a background across all IT and business domains. As a Mandiant Consulting Practice Leader Ms. Cruz helps clients assess, design and build effective security programs focusing on threat intelligence, defensive posture, proactive cyber management, security validation, incident response and incident preparedness.
Ms. Cruz is the recipient of the Silicon Valley YWCA Tribute to Women in Industry (TWIN) Award, is a past Board member of the Gentle Barn Foundation headquartered in Santa Clarita, CA, a past Board Member of the Career Action Center in San Jose, CA, and a former member of Golden Gate University School of Technology and Industry Executive Advisory Board. She previously served as an Ensign in the California State Guard, Cyber Operations Detachment.

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Brendan Daly

Brendan Daly

Chief Information Security Officer, City of San Diego

Brendan Michael Daly is a Deputy Director and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the City of San Diego, CA where he develops and implements security architecture, risk management, security policy and leads cross-functional teams in support of the City’s Strategic Plan. Brendan has 25 years of experience delivering IT services in the Public Sector with an emphasis on Cybersecurity. Additionally, Brendan serves as the Cyber Lead for the San Diego Regional Cyber Lab and Advisor to the Board of Directors for the San Diego Cyber Center of Excellence. He holds a BS in Natural Resources Management and a MS in Information Technology from the University of Maryland. Brendan is an ISACA Certified Information Security Manager and holds professional certificates in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Insider Threat Management and Cybersecurity Awareness.

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Anthony Fisher

Anthony Fisher

Local Agency Security Officer, Data Governance and Artificial Intelligence, State of Colorado

Anthony Fisher leads the Department of Revenue's Data Governance program and the strategic deployment of Data Management strategies across the department. He is also a subject matter expert within Data Sharing, Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. Complementary to his duties with the Department of Revenue, he holds board member roles with Public Sector Network, GovAI Coalition, and Government Data Advisory Board. In addition, he holds office as the President of the Rocky Mountain Rugby Union and is an avid rugby player.
The Department of Revenue (DOR) has over 1,500 employees that provide services to the people of Colorado through the Colorado Lottery, Division of Motor Vehicles, Marijuana Enforcement Division, Specialized Business Group (Tobacco, Racing, Gaming, and Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement), and Taxation Division.
Public Sector Network is an accredited B Corporation and social learning platform, created to improve the life of public sector employees - and the citizens they serve. Our platform is only open to government professionals who want to learn through best practice and example, in a safe, secure network.
The GovAI Coalition is composed of over 600 public servants from over 250 local, county, and state governments that represent over 150 million Americans across the nation united in our mission to promote responsible and purposeful AI in the public sector.
The Government Data Advisory Board (GDAB) is representative of all State of Colorado agencies and government offices. We work collaboratively to promote the use of good data to serve Coloradans. We are working to align our respective agencies to create common understandings and efficiencies and then develop resources that can be taken by agencies and adopted for use, such as guides and policies.
Established in 2014 as the successor to the Eastern Rockies Rugby Football Union (founded 1967), Rocky Mountain Rugby boasts a rich history within USA Rugby. Encompassing one of the nation's most historic rugby regions, Rocky Mountain member clubs have achieved remarkable success, capturing over 40 national championships (including at least 30 at the highest levels) and appearing in over 60 national championship finals since 1979. The union currently fosters a thriving rugby community with 24 senior men's clubs, 8 senior women's clubs, and an additional 18 programs currently in development.

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Stephen Franchetti

Stephen Franchetti

Chief Information Officer, Samsara

Stephen is the CIO at Samsara. He oversees all aspects of the company’s Information Technology including, business applications, data & analytics, information security, IT service management, and all core IT services.

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Phong Huynh

Principal, Deloitte

Phong Huynh is a Deloitte Consulting LLP Principal. He has been with Deloitte for 25 years. Phong is the Deloitte’s Marketplace Leader for Transportation and Labor in California. He co-founder of an asset in Deloitte called GovConnect. He is the Market Offering Leader for Government Experience Management (GEM) focused on elevating the user experience to the constituents and employees of Government. Phong also was the national Government Ecosystem & Alliance Leader and was the Assets Leader for Human Services Transformation and Digital Government practices. Previous technology roles at Deloitte include serving as the national System Development capability leader, where he led a practice of over 2,500 practitioners across the United States and India. And Phong has successfully delivered on digital transformation projects across many States for programs like Medicaid, SNAP, Child Welfare, Courts, and Unemployment Insurance.  He resides with his wife and two kids in Irvine, CA.

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Ryan Jockers

Ryan Jockers

Assistant Director of Reporting & Analytics, North Dakota University

Ryan Jockers is an experienced leader in data analytics, strategic planning, and project management. He is currently the Assistant Director of Reporting & Analytics at the North Dakota University System, where he oversees data initiatives and artificial intelligence models to support the system's success. Ryan is also an adjunct instructor of Economics at Bismarck State College and Valley City State University. He holds a Master of Science in Applied Economics and a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Dakota.

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Priya Kannan

Priya Kannan

Dean, Lucas College and Graduate School of Business, San José State University

Rangapriya (Priya) Kannan is the dean of the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business and a professor in the School of Global Innovation & Leadership. Her research primarily focuses on how individuals achieve innovation within limited resources using creative resourcing and reframing. Kannan’s background includes expertise in leadership to affect strategic change, designing interdisciplinary programs, employee development, alumni and community outreach, and creating inclusive work environments. She holds a doctorate degree in management from the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

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Tamara Kneese

Tamara Kneese

Project Director and Senior Researcher, AIMLab, Data & Society

Tamara Kneese is Director of Data & Society’s Algorithmic Impact Methods Lab. Before joining D&S, she was Lead Researcher at Green Software Foundation, Director of Developer Engagement on the Green Software team at Intel, and Assistant Professor of Media Studies and Director of Gender and Sexualities Studies at the University of San Francisco. Tamara holds a PhD in Media, Culture and Communication from NYU and is the author of Death Glitch: How Techno-Solutionism Fails Us in This Life and Beyond (Yale University Press, 2023).

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Ryan Kurtzman

Ryan Kurtzman

Technologies Partnerships Officer, Technology & Innovation, Long Beach

Ryan Kurtzman is the Technology Partnerships Officer for City of Long Beach Technology and Innovation Department. He leads the City's technology pilot programs, data privacy and AI governance efforts, and strategic initiatives for the Department to support the exploration and adoption of new technology to support more responsive and equitable services. Prior to that, he served as the Smart Cities Program Manager and a Management Assistant for five years. His experience in Long Beach includes developing community programs and policies that leverage new and emerging technology to improve connectivity, mobility, digital equity, and economic outcomes for all residents.
Before that, Ryan served as a Policy Fellow for Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti where he brokered partnerships and created program evaluation tools to advance the City's Great Streets Initiative and park equity goals. He graduated from UCLA with a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a focus on transportation policy and planning, and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy.

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Vinhcent Le

Vinhcent Le

Senior Legal Counsel, Tech Equity, The Greenlining Institute

Vinhcent Le is on the board of the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA), and also currently serves as the Senior Technology Equity attorney at the Greenlining Institute, focusing on consumer privacy, closing the digital divide, and preventing algorithmic bias. Le’s work has helped establish the CPPA and define its strategic plan, secure funding to increase broadband access among underserved communities, and to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public sector automated decision systems. Le received a J.D. from the University of California, Irvine School of Law, and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego.

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Bianca M. Lochner, Ph.D.

Bianca M. Lochner, Ph.D.

Chief Information Officer, City of Scottsdale

Bianca Lochner, Ph.D., has over 20 years of experience in information technology and local government. Throughout her career, she led multiple digital transformations and innovations in education and the public sector, modernizing legacy technology and positively impacting how citizens and businesses interact with the city government. As the Chief Information Officer for the City of Scottsdale, she combines her passion for public service and the power of technology to transform the way government delivers to the community it serves. She previously served as the Assistant CIO for the City of Phoenix and as the CIO for two school districts, leading a broad portfolio of technology infrastructure and digital projects, developing Smart City strategies, creating a more transparent and open government, and fostering innovation and partnerships to improve efficiency and service delivery and enhance the citizen experience and well-being.
Bianca is the co-founder and co-chair of the Cybersecurity Council of Arizona, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding Arizona's cybersecurity workforce. She is also a board member and advisor for the ArizonaCIO, Girls in Tech, the Arizona Technology Council, the Regional Wireless Consortium, Evanta, the Greater Phoenix Smart Region Consortium Connective, and the World Academy of Science, Engineering, and Technology. She holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science, a Master’s Degree in American Studies, a Ph.D. in Educational Technology, a Postdoctorate in Management of Information Systems, and an Executive MBA from ASU's Thunderbird School of Global Management. Bianca is the recipient of the 2022 GoldenGov City Executive of the Year award and was recognized as Government Technology’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers & Drivers of 2023.

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Joe Markwith

Joe Markwith

Senior Solution Architect, CDW

Joe Markwith is an accomplished professional at CDW, where he serves as a key leader in driving innovative technology solutions for a diverse clientele. With over a decade of experience in the IT industry, Joe combines his deep technical knowledge with a passion for customer service, ensuring that clients receive tailored solutions that meet their unique needs.
At CDW, Joe has successfully led numerous projects, leveraging his expertise in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure. His collaborative approach fosters strong relationships with clients and partners alike, making him a trusted advisor in navigating the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Joe holds a degree in Information Technology and is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. Outside of work, he enjoys mentoring young professionals and engaging in community service initiatives. His commitment to excellence and innovation makes him an invaluable asset to the CDW team and its clients.

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Andrew Ngui

Andrew Ngui

Chief Digital Officer, City of Kansas City, MO

Andrew Ngui is an award-winning, MIT-trained innovation leader and Chief Digital Officer with a proven track record of driving transformative change. As a visionary systems builder and strategist, he has effectively catalyzed and engineered radical inclusivity, fostering unity across diverse teams in various sectors including government, economic development, innovation leadership programs, and startups.
Andrew's demonstrated success stems from his unique ability to harness curiosity, creativity, and courage. This approach has enabled him to launch and scale human-centered initiatives that advance equitable change. His expertise lies in curating new opportunities through both top-down and bottom-up approaches, skillfully devising pilots and experiments to validate business hypotheses and address complex challenges.
As a skilled procedural and technical leader with a strong sense of urgency, Andrew excels at actively engaging and corralling diverse stakeholder groups. He ensures their voices are heard and integrated into strategic initiatives, building consensus and driving collective action. This inclusive approach has consistently led to the successful implementation of initiatives that not only meet but exceed organizational goals.
Andrew's efforts have yielded remarkable results, optimizing productivity and accelerating revenue and growth by orders of magnitude. He is adept at creating environments where innovation thrives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and sustainable impact. His work goes beyond immediate outcomes, focusing on long-term, transformative change that reshapes organizations and communities.
Throughout his career, Andrew has demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate complex systems and unite diverse teams around common goals. His leadership style, characterized by strategic thinking and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, has established him as a respected practitioner in the field of innovation.

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Irina Raicu

Irina Raicu

Director, Internet Ethics Program, Markkula Center for Applied Ethics

Irina Raicu is the director of the Internet Ethics program at the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, at Santa Clara University. She is a certified information privacy professional; was a member of the Partnership on AI’s initial working group on Fair, Transparent, and Accountable AI; and served as a member of the city of San Jose’s privacy advisory task force. She has co-authored a variety of educational resources published by the Markkula Center, including AI ethics case studies, and has worked with multiple companies in the process of developing their responsible AI policies and processes. Her writing has appeared in publications including The Atlantic, Forbes, MarketWatch, Slate, the San Francisco Chronicle, the San Jose Mercury News, and Recode.
Website: https://www.scu.edu/ethics/
On Twitter/X at @IEthics

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Mariel Reed

Mariel Reed

Chief Executive Officer, Pavilion

Mariel Reed is CEO and founder of Pavilion (withpavilion.com). Pavilion's platform enables public servants to find, use, and share contracts and easily connect with suppliers - for free - in one simple search. Previously, Mariel served as a public servant with the City & County of San Francisco. She was also an early employee at Coursera, a venture-backed education technology startup that has since gone public. She is grateful to be combining her experience in public service and the technology startup world at Pavilion. 

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Emily Royall

Emily Royall

Senior IT Manager – Emerging Technology, City of San Antonio, TX

Emily works at the intersection of public administration and technology to build greater public oversight over emerging technologies and the data that powers them. She is currently Emerging Technology Division Head in the Information & Technology Services Department for the City of San Antonio (her hometown). Emily also serves as Vice Chair of United for Smart and Sustainable Cities, an international collaborative platform led by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), UNECE and UN-Habitat. She is a Board Member of UrbanAI, and the GovAI Coalition, a network of over 250 public agencies in the United States working to promote responsible and purposeful AI in the public sector.
Previously Emily advised UN-Habitat’s “People-Centered Smart Cities Flagship Program” and authored six UN playbooks on smart cities for local governments. Emily’s professional experience spans academic, non-profit, and government agencies including City Form Labs, a Singapore-based smart cities laboratory, and the Massachusetts Office of Information Technology (MassIT). She has several years of public sector experience in digital transformation governance and implementation.
Emily has published and presented her work in national and international forums including UN-Habitat, StateScoop, UrbanAI, and GovTech Magazine, as well as the World Urban Forum 11th Session and Smart City World Expo. She holds a Masters in City Design & Development at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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Jiri Rutner

Jiri Rutner

Assistant to the City Manager, City of San José

Jiri Rutner is a results-driven leader with over 14 years of experience managing high-impact projects and initiatives. His expertise spans strategy activation, capacity building, portfolio management, change management, and operational excellence. Skilled in aligning technology, data, and AI with business operations to drive integration and innovation, Jiri applies a systems thinking approach to solve complex challenges, enabling local governments to operate with the speed and innovation of the private sector.
In his current role as the Homelessness Solutions Enterprise Manager for the City of San José, Jiri operates an Incident Command System using Scrum methodologies to support initiatives aimed at addressing some of the community's most pressing challenges. His work focuses on innovative approaches to public sector operations.
Jiri is also a founding member and External Affairs Committee Chair for the GovAI Coalition, a group dedicated to ensuring AI serves the public good. He supports the coalition’s expansion efforts, concentrating on AI upskilling and capacity building within government entities.
Previously, Jiri led the creation of the Business Operations Project Management Office for the County of San Diego Behavioral Health Services, overseeing a $700M portfolio focused on the construction of healthcare facilities across the county. He also served as the public-private partnership liaison, working on P3 projects to drive innovative infrastructure development. His leadership earned the department a NACO Achievement Award in 2023 for a systems-focused approach to behavioral health service delivery.
In addition to his work in the U.S., Jiri has international experience, including projects such as Corrections Victoria's prison radio infrastructure in Australia and collaborating with the Australian government on marine pollution emergency response efforts. He also brings extensive experience in procurement and construction management across various sectors.

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Steve Saman

Steve Saman

Solution Consultant, Adobe

Steve Saman is a Solution Consultant for Adobe Public Sector, specializing in Digital Transformation. He helps government customers modernize their business practices by moving away from manual, inefficient processes to more streamlined and secure digital workflows. A California resident, Steve is passionate about the potential for digital technology in the state & helping that technology deliver value to California residents & employees.

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Kris L. Schaffer

Kris L. Schaffer

Director of Technology Strategy, Lumen

Kris is originally from Canada and has lived and worked across North America with global companies and their partners.  Most recently she worked in the gathering of data, engaging predictive and cognitive analytics, to improve and enhance business outcomes – which was foundational to creating complex and powerful solutions for her clients.   Kris is an accomplished IT & Business Professional, having worked for several years at IBM enabling clients to use technology to drive better outcomes and the enhancement of workforces and workplaces.  Kris has seen the power of Artificial Intelligence as the marketplace has advanced from the simplicity of chatbots to tools and models that have enabled governments to leverage their analytics more broadly across society.  Kris is an advocate for ‘we don’t know the outcome yet thinking’, and that only through courageous use of technology can we explore and advance to new possibilities.

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Parth Shah

Parth Shah

Chief Executive Officer, Polimorphic

Arti Tangri

Arti Tangri

Equity through Data Lead, City of San Jose

As the Equity through Data Lead for the City of San Jose, Arti oversees Citywide efforts toward data informed service delivery and service improvement with specific focus on equity outcomes. She is leading the Data Governance work at the City which is meant to promote and implement a data driven approach that harnesses the power of data and AI while solving real life challenges at the City. Prior to this Arti served as a Data Architect for the City where she established the Open Data and Data Analytics program at the City. During the pandemic she was a core team member on the SJ311 team and helped deliver AI tools to provide Language Translation and Virtual Agents on City’s 311 platform while incorporating data and equity analysis to inform the 311 outreach program.
Arti started her career in the private sector, having worked for Microsoft and Expedia in software engineering roles before moving on to the City where she finds her work ever more fulfilling and meaningful.

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Khaled Tawfik

Khaled Tawfik

Chief Information Officer, City of San José, California

Khaled directs a diverse civic technology portfolio and the San José 311 Contact Center for the nation’s twelfth largest municipality. The City organization consists of 7,000 employees and carries over $5 billion total budget, serving 1 million residents and 80,000 businesses in the heart of Silicon Valley. The City’s quest is to be as innovative as the community we serve. San José is recognized for its leading role in innovation, artificial intelligence, digital privacy, driving equity through data, and digital empowerment.
Over two decades, Khaled has held senior leadership roles in the government and private sectors, including Los Angeles County and City of Irvine, earning his teams’ national awards for operational excellence through technology and innovative solutions.

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Enzhou Wang

Enzhou Wang

Chief Data Officer, City of Tacoma

As the Chief Data Officer at the City of Tacoma, Enzhou Wang is responsible for the overall success of the data & analytics program at the city. He also oversees the GIS team and the web & digital collaboration teams. Prior to joining the City of Tacoma, he worked as a senior IT Manager at the City of Bellevue, as an enterprise architect at Seattle City Light, and as a software developer at Microsoft and Esri.

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Jaime Wascalus

Jaime Wascalus

Director & Chief Information Officer, Office of Technology and Communications, City of St. Paul, MN

Jaime Wascalus began her career in web and application development and moved into leadership roles after discovering the joy of working with and guiding smart, creative, and diverse teams. In 2022 she joined the City of Saint Paul’s Office of Technology and Communications as Director and CIO, leading talented public servants who support a city that works for all. Jaime serves on the GovAI Coalition Board and is also Chair of the Use Cases Committee, working with talented public servants across the US exploring safe, responsible, and impactful applications of AI in the public sector. Jaime also serves on the Smart North Board and Full Stack Saint Paul, helping to build a more diverse technology workforce in the Twin Cities.

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Lee Wilcox

Lee Wilcox

Assistant City Manager, City of San José

Lee has a significant range of government experience and holds strong partnerships in the community and within the City of San José organization. In his current role as Assistant City Manager and Chief Operating Officer, he works with the City Manager through the coordination and engagement of departments to carry out City Council policy direction and ensure service delivery goals.
Lee has also been a Deputy City Manager with portfolios consisting of environmental and utility services, as well as, transportation and aviation city service areas, which include the Community Energy, Environmental Services, Airport, and Transportation departments. In addition, he simultaneously served as Co-Director of the City’s Emergency Operations Center during the City’s COVID-19 pandemic response.
Lee has previously held the position of the City Manager’s Chief of Staff and Director of the City Manager’s Office of Administration, Policy, and Intergovernmental Relations. Before these positions, Lee spent time as the Budget Director for the Mayor’s Office, as an Assistant to the City Manager, and as a Senior Executive Analyst in the City Manager’s Office of Economic Development working on downtown issues. He began his City Hall career as the Chief of Staff for the Office of former Councilmember Nancy Pyle. Lee also spent time in Sacramento serving as a Legislative Aide.
Born and raised in San José, Lee holds a Master of Public Administration in public policy and administration in local government from the University of Colorado, Denver and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Sonoma State University. He also holds a certificate in local government management and leadership from Harvard University, Kennedy School of Government.

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Meg Young

Meg Young

Participatory Methods Researcher, Algorithmic Impact Methods (AIM) Lab, Data & Society Research Institute

Meg Young studies how to support the public to drive technology assessment in practice. She has collaborated with public agencies, advocacy group, and community-based organizations on capacity-building for data governance, technology oversight, and public engagement. Much of her work focuses on promoting digital rights in municipal government; she led a course on digital rights in Results for DM5 and DM6 certification in America's What Works Cities program. Prior to joining Data & Society, Meg was a postdoctoral researcher at Cornell Tech Digital Life Initiative, and a fellow in the New York City Office of Technology Innovation. She holds a PhD from the University of Washington and an MS and BA from the University of Michigan.

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Agenda

Wednesday, December 4

11:30 am Pacific

Registration and Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

West Lobby

1:00 pm Pacific

Opening Remarks

Hall 3

Matt Mahan, Mayor, City of San José

1:10 pm Pacific

Opening General Session

Hall 3

The future of public sector innovation begins now, as the GovAI Coalition unites leaders from across the nation to shape the path forward. With bold vision from coalition leadership and cutting-edge AI use cases on display, this session sets the stage for the critical conversations and breakthroughs that will drive government technology forward. Experience transformative ideas and real-world applications, setting the tone for a summit that will ignite new possibilities for the now and next of public sector AI.

Jonathan Behnke, Chief Information Officer, City of San Diego

Ethan Benatan, Executive Director of IT and Chief Information Officer, TriMet

Anthony Fisher, Local Agency Security Officer, Data Governance and Artificial Intelligence, Colorado Department of Revenue

Ryan Kurtzman, Technologies Partnerships Officer, Technology & Innovation, Long Beach

Emily Royall, Senior IT Manager – Emerging Technology, City of San Antonio, TX

Khaled Tawfik, Chief Information Officer, City of San José

Jaime Wascalus, Director & Chief Information Officer, Office of Technology and Communications, City of St. Paul, MN

1:30 pm Pacific

General Session – Industry Partner Panel

Hall 3

Join industry leaders for a panel exploring real-world demonstrations of AI in action, highlighting innovative applications that are making a tangible difference in government operations and service delivery. This showcase brings practical examples of AI driving efficiency, improving decision-making, and addressing critical challenges.

Moderator: Albert Gehami, Privacy Officer, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Jayson Dunn, Executive Government Advisor, Amazon Web Services

Phong Huynh, Principal, Deloitte

Bratton Riley, Chief Executive Officer, Citibot

2:10 pm Pacific

Thought Leadership Keynote

Hall 3

Joe Markwith, Senior Solution Architect, CDW

2:50 pm Pacific

Networking Break

West Lobby

3:20 pm Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

GovAI Coalition Part I of II: Join the Public Sector AI Movement

Room 230C

The GovAI Coalition is an influential network of over 1,000 members from local, state, and federal agencies, united by a shared mission to promote responsible and purposeful AI in the public sector. This introductory session will provide an overview of the Coalition’s origin and vision, highlighting its commitment to using AI for social good, ensuring ethical and accountable AI governance, and fostering cross-agency collaboration. Participants will learn how to get involved, from signing up as a member to contributing to policy templates and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Whether you're in government, academia, or the private sector, this session offers the perfect starting point to engage with a community dedicated to shaping AI that benefits residents and society at large.

Moderator: Khaled Tawfik, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Albert Gehami, Privacy Officer, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Leila Doty, Privacy & AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Angela Zhao, Privacy & AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Cyber Part I of II: The Double-Edged Sword of AI

Room 230B

AI is transforming cybersecurity, offering tools that can both protect and pose risks to organizations. But how do we navigate this double-edged sword? This session delves into the dual nature of AI—how it serves as a powerful force for good, enhancing security operations and fortifying defenses, while also being exploited by cybercriminals to launch sophisticated attacks. Through this dual lens, we'll explore strategies to harness AI's potential for securing your organization while staying vigilant against its misuse. Join us to gain insights into leveraging AI responsibly to create a safer digital world.

Moderator: Deb Snyder, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

Kathy Cruz, Consulting Practice Leader, State, Local and Education Solutions – West, Google Cloud

AI Readiness: Workforce & Change Management

Room 230A

With AI poised to reshape public sector roles and responsibilities, preparing the workforce is critical. This session delves into the strategies necessary for upskilling, retraining, and managing organizational change. Attendees will learn how to identify and develop the skills required for AI-driven tasks, create and update job descriptions/classifications, and foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. HR leaders and CIOs will gain actionable insights into how to support their teams through this transformation, ensuring that their workforce is equipped to thrive in an AI-enabled environment.

Moderator: Jiri Rutner, Assistant to the City Manager, City of San José

David Bissainthe, Chief Executive Officer, Analytics Intel

Priya Kannan, Dean, Lucas College and Graduate School of Business, San José State University

Ana Peralta Chammas, Director of County Innovation, Miami-Dade County

Cynthia Teniente-Matson, President, San José State University

Lee Wilcox, Assistant City Manager, City of San José

4:05 pm Pacific

Transition to Next Round of Concurrent Sessions

4:15 pm Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

GovAI Coalition Part II of II: From Policy to Practice

Room 230C

In Part 2 of the GovAI Coalition series, we move beyond introductory concepts and delve into the practical application of AI governance within the public sector. This session is designed for top-level decision-makers, IT professionals, and policymakers who are ready to implement AI governance frameworks in their organizations. Attendees will explore a selection of the GovAI Coalition’s policy templates, gaining insights into how these frameworks can be adapted and applied to ensure ethical, transparent, and effective AI deployments. Whether you’re a CIO, CTO, or elected official, this session provides the tools and knowledge needed to translate policy into action, fostering AI solutions that benefit residents while maintaining public trust.

Moderator: Albert Gehami, Privacy Officer, City of San José

Angela Zhao, Privacy & AI Analyst, City of San José

Cyber Part II of II: Mitigating Risks in an AI Powered World

Room 230B

As AI transforms the way public agencies operate, it also introduces new cyber threats that must be managed effectively. This session will examine the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, focusing on the expanded risk vectors that AI presents. Participants will discuss policy development aimed at protecting data privacy and ensuring that AI technologies are governed by ethical and regulatory standards that keep pace with technological advancements.

Moderator: Deb Snyder, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

Hemant Baidwan, Department of Homeland Security

Kathy Cruz, Consulting Practice Leader, State, Local and Education Solutions – West, Google Cloud

Brendan Daly, Chief Information Security Officer, City of San Diego

Social Impact: AI & The Environment

Room 230A

AI’s rise is transforming industries and public sector services, but its social impact goes far beyond innovation. In this session, executive leaders and technology managers will explore the broader consequences of AI adoption on environmental sustainability, digital accessibility, and social equity. We will discuss how AI-driven systems contribute to environmental resource consumption, challenge equitable access to technology, and influence the distribution of benefits across different communities. Attendees will leave with insights into mitigating these challenges and ensuring AI’s role is positive and inclusive for all residents.

Moderator: Leila Doty, Privacy and AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Tamara Kneese, Director, Algorithmic Impact Methods Lab (AIMLab), Data & Society

Brian Pascal, Policy Advisor, District 5, County of Santa Clara

Irina Raicu, Director, Internet Ethics Program, Markkula Center for Applied Ethics

Kris Schaffer, Senior Director, Technology Strategist, Lumen Technologies

5:00 pm Pacific

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

West Lobby

5:45 pm Pacific

End of Day 1

Thursday, December 5

7:45 am Pacific

Registration and Buffet Breakfast

West Lobby

8:30 am Pacific

Opening Remarks

Hall 3

Jennifer Maguire, City Manager of San José

8:45 am Pacific

Inspirational Keynote

Hall 3

Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate

9:30 am Pacific

Thought Leadership Keynote

Hall 3

Daniel Clarke, President, Truyo

Bianca M. Lochner, Ph.D. Chief Information Officer, City of Scottsdale

10:00 am Pacific

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

West Lobby

10:30 am Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

Public Engagement I of II: Real-World Success in Connecting AI and Communities

Room 230C

At its core, every government agency is tasked with serving the people. As AI becomes a more prominent tool in public services, ensuring that these systems reflect community needs is essential. Engaging the public in AI decision-making is key to building trust and ensuring new technology benefits everyone. This session will showcase successful public engagement stories from various agencies that have involved residents in AI projects. Discover how you can implement similar approaches to strengthen your community’s involvement in the AI technologies impacting their lives.

Moderator: Meg Young, Participatory Methods Researcher, Algorithmic Impact Methods (AIM) Lab, Data & Society Research Institute

Leila Doty, Privacy and AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Ryan Kurtzman, Technologies Partnerships Officer, Technology & Innovation, Long Beach

Andrew Ngui, Chief Digital Officer, City of Kansas City, MO

Sabra Schneider, Chief Information Officer, City of Bellevue

Data Governance: Readiness for AI

Room 230B

Data is the backbone of effective AI, making comprehensive data readiness a top priority for public sector organizations. This session will cover the full spectrum of data management necessary for successful AI deployment, including data collection, sharing, governance, quality assurance, and policy development. Participants will learn how to establish robust data governance frameworks that support AI initiatives while addressing key challenges such as data privacy, security, and compliance. By the end of this session, attendees will be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure their agency’s data is AI-ready, laying a solid foundation for the successful implementation of AI technologies.

Moderator: Anthony Fisher, Local Agency Security Officer, Data Governance and Artificial Intelligence, State of Colorado

Mark Wheeler, Former Philadelphia Chief Information Officer

AI Playbook for Leaders: Foundational Insights for Public Sector Decision-Makers

Room 230A

As AI rapidly transforms government operations, public sector leaders must distinguish between hype and reality. This session, tailored for elected officials and executives, explores AI’s journey from early development to its current role as a transformative force. Participants will examine the history of AI, foundational types, and the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into public services. Attendees will also learn what it takes to deploy AI effectively and guide their organizations toward meaningful adoption. This session prepares leaders for the Responsible AI Pledge, signaling their readiness to lead informed, responsible AI initiatives.

Moderator: Matt Mahan, Mayor, City of San José

Michael Kern, Managing Director, KnowledgeLake

Khaled Tawfik, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, City of San José

11:15 am Pacific

Transition to Next Round of Concurrent Sessions

11:25 am Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

Public Engagement II of II: Workshop

Room 230C

Public engagement is a critical aspect of using AI responsibly as a government. Unfortunately, it’s not always a straightforward process and there are often many barriers to successfully engaging the community. Despite time and resource constraints, what can your agency do to improve its public engagement efforts around the AI systems it uses? In this session, participatory methods experts will share models for engagement with agency practitioners and facilitate a brainstorm session that will give you next steps to enhance your agency’s public engagement strategy for AI.

Moderator: Meg Young, Participatory Methods Researcher, Algorithmic Impact Methods (AIM) Lab, Data & Society Research Institute

Leila Doty, Privacy and AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Sabra Schneider, Chief Information Officer, City of Bellevue

Data Governance: Ethics & Best Practices

Room 230B

As AI technologies advance, the ethical management of data has become a critical concern for those directly involved in AI implementation. This session is tailored for those in the public sector who are on the front lines of integrating AI into government. The focus will be on the practical aspects of data ethics, including how to responsibly collect, share, and use data in AI systems. Topics will include bias mitigation, transparency, accountability, and the development of ethical guidelines that align with both legal standards and public expectations. Attendees will dive deep into real-world scenarios and case studies, gaining insights into how to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and ensure that their AI projects adhere to the highest ethical standards. By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with actionable strategies to manage data ethically in their AI initiatives, ensuring fairness, trust, and compliance throughout the AI lifecycle.

Moderator: Stephen Goldsmith, Derek Bok Professor of the Practice of Urban Policy and Director of the Data Smart Cities Program, Bloomberg Center for Cities, Harvard University

Carrie Bishop, Bloomberg Philanthropies

Arti Tangri, Equity through Data Lead, City of San José

Enzhou Wang, Chief Data Officer, City of Tacoma

AI Playbook for Senior Leaders I of II: Strategy, Policy, and Action

Room 230A

As AI transforms the public sector, it’s vital for government leaders—mayors, executives, and elected officials—to have a strong vision of how AI can be integrated into service delivery. This session equips leaders with the knowledge to effectively incorporate AI into their jurisdictions, focusing on AI use cases presented by elected officials in a series of lightning talks. Following the lightning talks, the elected officials will engage in a panel discussion on their jurisdiction's adoption of AI. Key topics include data management, AI ethics, workforce development, and policy creation, ensuring leaders are prepared to drive innovation, enhance public services, and govern AI responsibly while mitigating risks.

Moderator: Rochelle Haynes, Results for America

12:10 pm Pacific

Lunch

Hall 3

1:10 pm Pacific

Transition to Concurrent Sessions

1:15 pm Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

Social Impact: Equitable AI for Public Good

Room 230C

As reports of gender bias in automated hiring tools and racially discriminatory outputs in pretrial risk assessments make headlines, the issue of algorithmic bias is a growing concern. For public agencies, the stakes are particularly high, as AI systems are increasingly integrated into government operations. This session features a panel of experts from government, civil society, and the private sector who will discuss why public agencies must take algorithmic bias seriously. Attendees will gain insights into the potential consequences of unchecked bias and explore practical strategies to minimize bias in AI systems, ensuring these tools promote equity rather than perpetuate discrimination.

Moderator: Quinn Anex-Ries, Senior Policy Analyst, Equity in Civic Technology, Center for Democracy and Technology

Sarah Carrier, Privacy & Responsible AI Program Manager | CIPT, Information Technology, City of Seattle

Joe Conti, AI Trust Leader, Deloitte

Vinhcent Le, Senior Legal Counsel, Tech Equity, The Greenlining Institute

Effective Vendor Partnerships: Strategies for Mutual Success

Room 230B

In the rapidly evolving field of AI, building strong vendor partnerships is crucial for successful implementation in the public sector. This session focuses on fostering effective collaborations between government agencies and AI vendors. Through an engaging panel discussion, experts from both sides will explore what public agencies need from their AI vendors and what vendors expect from their government clients. Attendees will gain insights into best practices for managing AI vendor relationships, ensuring alignment of goals, and driving innovation through effective public-private collaboration.

Moderator: Phil Bertolini, Senior Vice President of Events, Government Technology

Ethan Benatan, Executive Director of IT and Chief Information Officer, TriMet

José Matthews, Division Manager, Department of IT, Snohomish County, WA

Sarab Narang, VP of Global GenAI GTM, ServiceNow

AI Playbook for Senior Leaders II of II: Setting the Course for 2025

Room 230A

Government executives, mayors, and city managers will explore the Responsible AI Pledge. This pledge outlines essential commitments for ethical AI implementation, transparency, and equitable access to AI services. Participants will review each pledge point in detail, gaining practical insights on how to integrate these objectives into local governance. By the session’s end, attendees will have a clear understanding of the Responsible AI Pledge and a roadmap for leading responsible and innovative AI strategies within their communities.

Moderator: Khaled Tawfik, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Stephen Caines, Chief Innovation Officer, City of San José

Albert Gehami, Privacy Officer, City of San José

2:00 pm Pacific

Transition to Concurrent Sessions

2:10 pm Pacific

Concurrent Sessions

Actionable AI: What Can We Do Right Now?

Room 230C

This session empowers public sector employees at all levels to take immediate, actionable steps toward AI adoption. By focusing on “low-hanging fruit,” participants will learn practical strategies to optimize tasks, enhance service delivery, and improve decision-making with AI, regardless of their role. The session will highlight easy wins, cross-departmental collaboration, and ways to build momentum for larger AI initiatives, ensuring everyone can contribute to their organization’s AI transformation. Attendees will leave with concrete next steps to start leveraging AI in their daily work.

Moderator: Jaime Wascalus, Director & Chief Information Officer, Office of Technology and Communications, City of St. Paul, MN

Annie Bui, President | Student Public Administration Association (SPAA), University of La Verne

Stephen Franchetti, Chief Information Officer, Samsara

Ryan Jockers, Assistant Director of Reporting & Analytics, North Dakota University

Steve Saman, Solution Consultant, Adobe

Pooling Resources for AI: Navigating Shared Contracts and Services

Room 230B

In the evolving landscape of AI, public sector agencies face unique challenges and opportunities in procurement. This session explores how government entities can collaborate to share contracts and services, maximizing their resources and expertise. Participants will learn about best practices for AI procurement, with a focus on creating shareable contracts that benefit multiple agencies within the GovAI Coalition. By pooling resources and aligning strategies, agencies can streamline procurement processes, reduce costs, and accelerate AI adoption. This session is ideal for those looking to enhance their AI initiatives through collaborative, cross-agency partnerships.

Moderator: Emily Royall, Senior IT Manager – Emerging Technology, City of San Antonio, TX

Kimberly Barnard, Senior Buyer – Technology Contracts, Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District

Kailey Burger Ayogu, Managing Director, Government Performance Lab, Harvard Kennedy School

Ryan Maher, Senior Procurement and Contract Analyst, City of San José

Mariel Reed, Chief Executive Officer, Pavilion

Future Lab: Beyond AI, What's Next?

Room 230A

In the midst of ever-changing tech landscapes, it’s crucial to keep our eyes on the horizon. As AI and IoT become mainstream, understanding what the next technological revolution brings will be essential for public sector leaders. How can we stay prepared for these future advancements and the unforeseen challenges and opportunities they bring? Join us as we look ahead to emerging technologies poised to transform how we serve the public and explore strategies to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring readiness to navigate and harness the next wave of technological breakthroughs.

Moderator: Angela Zhao, Privacy & AI Analyst, Information Technology Department, City of San José

Phil Bertolini, Senior Vice President of Events, Government Technology

Bianca M. Lochner, Ph.D. Chief Information Officer, City of Scottsdale

Parth Shah, Chief Executive Officer, Polimorphic

2:55 pm Pacific

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

West Lobby

3:30 pm Pacific

Closing General Session – Responsible AI Pledge Signing

Hall 3

Following deliberations from the third session, leaders will present the Responsible AI Pledge to GovAI Coalition Summit attendees. The session will conclude with a ceremonial signing of the pledge, symbolizing a collective commitment to ethical and inclusive AI adoption, setting the course for 2025 and beyond with a focus on public trust and community well-being.

Moderator: Phil Bertolini, Senior Vice President of Events, Government Technology

Jennifer Maguire, City Manager, City of San José

4:15 pm Pacific

Closing Remarks

Hall 3

4:45 pm Pacific

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

West Lobby

5:30 pm Pacific

End of Conference

Friday, December 6

9:00 am Pacific

GovAI Coalition Town Hall Meeting at San José City Hall

Meeting details distributed via email to interested registrants.

Program will end by 2pm, check back for exact timing.

Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

San Jose Convention Center

150 W San Carlos Street
San Jose, CA 95113
1-800-726-5673

Get Directions To
San Jose Convention Center

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: December 4-5, 2024

Open to Public Sector and Civil Society.

Registration Fee per person: $95.00

Registration by credit card only; no billing.

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:

Abigail Suiter
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1405
E-mail: asuiter@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

Venue

San Jose Convention Center

150 W San Carlos Street
San Jose, CA 95113
1-800-726-5673

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Parking

There is a parking garage onsite at the Convention Center. Park in the section marked Hall 3 for easy access to the event location.

Accommodations

Government Technology has two group room blocks established at the following locations:

Hyatt Place San José/Downtown Hotel
282 Almaden Boulevard
San José, CA 95110
Phone: (408) 998-0400
Rate: $159.00/standard | $179.00/deluxe
Cut-off date: 11/15/24
When making reservations please use the Group Reservation Link

.

San José Marriott
301 South Market Street
San José, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 280-1300
Rate: $281.00/standard
Cut-off date: 11/15/24
When making reservations please use the Group Reservation Link

Rooms are on a first come, first served basis. Please note, once the room block is full, you will need to make other arrangements for your accommodation with the hotel directly or a nearby hotel.