Name: Illinois Digital Government Summit 2024
Start: 2024-11-19T08:00
Location: Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center

Overview

The Digital Government Summit brings together technology focused public-sector professionals with leading industry partners to connect on innovative approaches, get inspired and discover new technologies. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

The Illinois Digital Government Summit is set to take place in Springfield this year, and promises to be our best year yet! I am excited to welcome you and the hundreds of IT leaders and professionals from across State, local government and the private sector. Together, we will share ideas and explore the latest technology advancements that are transforming public services.

- Sanjay Gupta, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, State of Illinois

Speakers

Sanjay Gupta

Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois 

Sanjay Gupta serves as the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) and the State Chief Information Officer. Sanjay leads the agency’s strategic IT planning and service delivery to 35 State of Illinois Agencies and over 80 boards, commissions, and offices throughout the State, representing nearly 60,000 users.
Previously, Sanjay served in the Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer roles for the U.S Department of Justice and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) respectively. His modernization of SBA’s technology enabled it to process more than $1 trillion in economic assistance for the nation’s largest economic recovery effort.
He demonstrated the “art of the possible” in the public sector by delivering modernization, new cybersecurity models, collaborative standardization and innovative solutions that have informed policy updates. He also served on the Board of the Technology Modernization Fund (of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget), overseeing a $1 billion fund to modernize government IT and cybersecurity.
Appointed by Governor Pritzker in June 2023, the Illinois Senate confirmed Sanjay’s appointment in May 2024 as the State Chief Information Officer and Secretary of DoIT.

Brandon Ragle

Deputy Secretary and Deputy State Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois 

Ragle brings 30 years of service in state government, serving in various roles supporting the Department of Corrections, Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and Department of Insurance. Ragle spent the past two decades in information technology and joined the DoIT team in the role of Deputy Chief of Enterprise Applications in May 2016 where he was later promoted to Chief of Enterprise Applications in May 2019. In July 2022, Ragle assumed the role of Assistant Secretary of DoIT and subsequently served as interim Secretary from January to June 2023.
In June 2023, Ragle was appointed as the Deputy Secretary of DoIT and Deputy State CIO receiving Senate approval for the position in May 2024.

Jason Bowen

Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), State of Illinois 

Serving as Statewide Chief Information Security Officer, Jason drives positive cybersecurity outcomes for residents and visitors that leverage resources delivered by agencies across the State of Illinois. By building relationships and maximizing value provided through Federal - State - Local partnerships, Jason strives to promote and implement a unified cybersecurity strategy while providing tactical support where needed. As a public servant, he’s honored to lead a talented cybersecurity team dedicated to serving our residents and neighbors in the accomplishment of this mission.

Sharon Gai

Keynote Speaker and Author

Sharon Gai is an international female keynote speaker for corporations, associations and the public sector. Using her unique background from the east and west, she works with leaders worldwide to understand how to adopt AI into their workflows to increase productivity and efficiency. In her tenure at Alibaba, she advised brands and heads of state in crafting their digital strategy with programmatic marketing and AI. She has been the keynote speaker at TEDx, Singularity University, UBS, Deloitte, LVMH, Nestle, Ecomworld, and Etail. She is in the AAE list of Top Keynote Speakers in 2023. She is also one of 2024’s RETHINK Retail’s Top Retail Expert and a LinkedIn Top Voice in Public Speaking 2023. She has appeared on Bloomberg, ABC, CBC, CCTV, Techcrunch, Retail Asia, Wired, and The Next Web. She is the author of the book, Ecommerce Reimagined. Sharon has an Honors Bachelor’s degree in International Development from McGill and a Masters in Information and Knowledge Strategy from Columbia University.

Bill Rials

Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government/Center for Public Sector AI

William (Bill) Rials, Ph.D., is a professor and associate director (department chair) of the Tulane University School of Professional Advancement IT and Cybersecurity Program, where he focuses on continually delivering and updating the program curriculum based on innovative and emerging technologies. Before transitioning to academia and higher education, he had a diverse gov tech career delivering value to state agencies, local governments, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state of Mississippi. He has served in CIO, CTO, and CISO roles for local governments and also in various leadership positions within the state of Mississippi’s IT organization as a deputy to the state CIO. Dr. Rials holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Belhaven University, a master’s degree in computer information systems and cybersecurity from Missouri State University, as well as a Ph.D. in higher education administration and public administration from Jackson State University. His dissertation research involved the critical factors that affect the adoption of cloud services within the public sector. He is a noted expert in the IT and cybersecurity space and is frequently quoted by national media outlets. He is also a frequent contributor to national IT government organizations such as NASTD and NASCIO.

Monica Carranza

Principal Digital Innovation Specialist, Worldwide Public Sector, Amazon Web Services

Monica Terése Carranza, Esq. is an innovation and user-experience (UX) leader with two decades of industry practice delivering public sector solutions. Currently, Monica is a Principal Digital Innovation Specialist at Amazon Web Services (AWS). As a member of AWS’ Worldwide Public Sector team, Monica helps customers learn and use Amazon’s innovation mechanism of Working Backwards to design solutions that solve mission-critical problems. Before joining AWS, Monica spent 14-years working in the public sector at both the State of Illinois and City of Chicago as a CIO and lawyer focused on data privacy. Monica received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her law degree from Loyola University of Chicago law school.

John Cecala

Google Public Sector, Google Cloud

John is a public sector technology advocate at Google Cloud, dedicated to empowering governments with Google-inspired innovation. With 20+ years of experience, he understands the unique challenges agencies face across people, process and technology.  John champions  solutions to help government agencies improve resident services and accelerate problem-solving.

Daren Child

US Consult Data and AI Service Partner, Kyndryl

Daren is a senior-level data sage with repeated success in developing strategic data solutions and approaches to modernize and transform organizations. He is all about leveraging new data solutions to help agencies and organizations develop a data culture.
Prior to joining Kyndryl, Daren served as Principal Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft.

Tony Collings

Cybersecurity State Coordinator, Region 5 (IL), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

Tony Collings is the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Region 5 Cybersecurity State Coordinator (CSC) for Illinois.
CISA protects the Nation’s critical infrastructure from cyber and physical threats by working with partners to defend against today’s threats and collaborating to build more secure and resilient infrastructure for the future.
Tony brings 40 years of information technology experience to the CSC position including nine years of cybersecurity experience. Prior to joining CISA, Tony served the State of Illinois as a Deputy Chief Information Security Officer at the Department of Innovation and Technology (DOIT), where he played a key role in the development and maturation of the state’s cybersecurity program. Tony has worked for state government for much of his career, including positions at Central Management Services, Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Corrections, and the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts. Tony has also worked in the energy sector of critical infrastructure.
Tony earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Illinois University, majoring in Computer Management. A lifetime learner, he has obtained several certifications in Cybersecurity, Cloud Security, Privacy, and Project Management.
Tony resides in Springfield, Illinois.

Jason Donisch

Information, Communication, and Technology Director, Will County

Romelia Flores

IBM Distinguished Engineer & Master Inventor, Public Market, IBM

Romelia’s industry experiences, combined with her unique software development, Generative AI and design expertise make her a highly sought-after innovator. She has collaborated with leading clients in the design of AI Centers of Excellence, Electric Vehicle Fleet Management, Social Services, Airports of the Future and more. She holds 86 US patents and 10 patents pending. In 2024-2023 she was interviewed by Texas CEO Magazine and eRepublic regarding AI in Business. In 2021, she received the Dallas Business Journal’s Women in Business Award. In 2018, she was the first female ever named to the Dallas Tech Titan Hall of Fame and was the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award winner from Great Minds in STEM.

North American Software and Platform Engineering Lead for Health and Public Sector, Managing Director, Accenture

Matt is an expert in legacy modernization, leading the practice at Accenture Health and Public Sector with a focus on transforming outdated systems into agile, future-ready solutions. With over 25 years of experience in IT strategy and digital transformation, he collaborates with Public Sector (State and Local government) clients to streamline operations, enhance user experiences, and leverage emerging technologies. Matt is passionate about guiding organizations through complex modernization journeys, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Joe Mariani

Research Senior Manager, Deloitte Center for Government Insights, Deloitte

Joe Mariani leads the emerging technologies research program for Deloitte’s Center for Government Insights. His research focuses on the intersection of culture and innovation in both commercial businesses and government organizations. Joe has testified before Congress on the impact of emerging technology on government, and his work has appeared in publications including the National Academy of Sciences, World Economic Forum, US News & World Report, Wall Street Journal, Cyber Defense Review, The Marine Corps Gazette, and more.
Joe serves in several other roles including adjunct professor at University of Maryland, advisor to the National Defense Industrial Association’s special operations division, and more. His previous experience includes work as a consultant to defense and intelligence organizations, high school science teacher, and Marine Corps intelligence officer.

Jackie White

National Conference Director, Government Technology

As National Conference Director for Government Technology magazine, Jackie produces, manages, and emcees government IT conferences throughout the country. With over 20 years in the SaaS and Tech arena, Jackie proudly brings strategy, project management, operational excellence, and production together to streamline the efforts of live national events. For 15 years Jackie has worked within the greater Chicago market, while also planning and producing events throughout the US, Canada and Europe. 
Jackie is a proud member of GMIS Illinois, active with Chicago Innovation (FKA Chicago Innovation Awards),  and is also known for dedicating countless hours volunteering and fundraising for non-profits including Surge for Water, Hephzibah Children's Association, SheSays Chicago, and Naperville Safety Town.

View Speakers

Agenda

Tuesday, November 19
8:00 am Central	Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area Plaza E/F/G
9:00 am Central	Opening Remarks Plaza H/I/J Sanjay Gupta, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, State of Illinois
9:15 am Central	Keynote – Leading the AI Revolution: IT's New Role in Global Public Sector Innovation Plaza H/I/J AI is reshaping everything and IT leaders in government and public sector organizations stand at a pivotal juncture. Traditionally viewed as reactive and slower to innovate than the private sector, the public sector is now uniquely positioned to take a hands-on stance in AI implementation. To do that, we need to understand how IT departments can anticipate and address business needs proactively. In this whirlwind session, digital transformation and AI expert, Sharon Gai, will take us on a journey around the world. Starting from the bustling streets of Hangzhou to the high-tech healthcare facilities of Tokyo, and finally to the classrooms of New York. Through this session, government leaders will understand the myriad ways AI is redefining society and be equipped with actionable insights, aiding them in harnessing the full potential of AI for the betterment of their communities. Sharon Gai, Keynote Speaker & Author
10:15 am Central	General Session: Emerging Technology: Real-World Applications of AI in the Illinois Public Sector Plaza H/I/J While stakeholders may believe the sky is the limit with AI and emerging technology, public sector IT leaders must work hard to manage expectations on realistic ways to weave AI into workflows without compromising constituent privacy and critical security safeguards. In this session, we will talk about use cases where AI afforded wins across the state, as well as times IT leaders had to pivot from the original request to stay in compliance with the important policies and governance that protect the people of Illinois. Sanjay Gupta, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, State of Illinois
10:35 am Central	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Plaza E/F/G
11:00 am Central	Concurrent Sessions Navigating AI Policy and Governance While Prioritizing Public Trust Diamond Ballroom The proliferation of AI systems and the data that drives them are increasingly shaping our daily lives. Having guardrails and an effective governance process in place is more vital than ever and is essential to ensuring public trust. How should we approach the ethical and regulatory considerations that now must be taken into account? What are key principles and best practices for navigating the complex landscape of data and AI governance? This session offers actionable insights to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical use of data and AI technologies to foster public trust in their deployment within government organizations. Moderator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, GovTech John Cecala, Google Public Sector, Google Cloud Romelia Flores, IBM Distinguished Engineer & Master Inventor, Public Market, IBM Troy Horton, Health & Human Services Group CIO, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Cyber Hygiene 101 Sapphire Ballroom In an unpredictable world, effective crisis management and business continuity are essential responsibilities for everyone, regardless of their role. Are your teams doing all they can to defend your agency against a cyber-attack? What resources are you leaning on to stay up to date about the current threat landscape? Have you reached out to DoIT to leverage the state contracts and other resources that are available to help you create a meaningful response plan? This session will highlight the resources available, and how they can help you make a dent in being prepared. Moderator: Jason Bowen, Chief Information Security Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Tony Collings, Cybersecurity State Coordinator, Region 5 (IL), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jennifer Rominger, PMP, Security Program Manager, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Data Governance: Navigating the Present and Shaping the Future Plaza C/D In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and exponential data growth, organizations face unprecedented challenges and opportunities in managing and sharing data effectively. We are inundated with data and challenged with making the most out of it. How are conversations around governance and privacy affecting day-to-day work life? What should we focus on when approaching this challenge to turn it into an opportunity? This session delves into the critical considerations and strategies for navigating the complex landscape of data governance and sharing - both now, and into the future. Daren Child, US Consult Data and AI Service Partner, Kyndryl Radhika Lakhani, General Counsel, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Innovation Through Optimizing Partner Relationships Plaza A To ensure the delivery of successful, consistent services and the efficient use of taxpayer dollars, cooperative, mutually beneficial IT partnerships are crucial for state and local governments. Skill and experience are needed to align the right IT solutions to fit current and future business strategies, functional requirements, technical specifications, and budgets. Hear benchmarking strategies on optimizing partner relationships and outsourcing agreements, focusing on key aspects such as contract negotiation, performance monitoring, compliance, and risk mitigation. Moderator: Andrew Martin, Group Chief Information Officer for the Division of Natural and Cultural Resources, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Tom Gilbert, CGCIO, Information Technology Director, Village of Oak Brook Dale Walters, Chief of Network Operations, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology
12:00 pm Central	Lunch Plaza H/I/J
12:45 pm Central	Bits and Bytes – DoIT Wins in 2024 Plaza H/I/J Join our distinguished panel to learn how to take ideas from stakeholders into projects that solve real-world problems with DoIT. This discussion will provide details on projects that started as ideas that evolved into success stories that our IT leaders have had working with partners throughout the State in 2024. Don't miss this discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of public sector IT. Brandon Ragle, Deputy Secretary and Deputy State Chief Information Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology
1:15 pm Central	Short Break
1:30 pm Central	Concurrent Sessions Legacy to Leading Edge: Modernization Strategies for Government Sapphire Ballroom Legacy applications often form the backbone of many public sector organizations' IT infrastructure; however, as technology advances, they can become a liability, hindering innovation and efficiency. Modernizing these systems is crucial for improving service delivery, operational effectiveness, and citizen engagement. Where do agency leaders start the process of modernization when the obstacles can seem overwhelming? This session will provide valuable insights on how others have modernized legacy systems in the public sector, considered different models for moving forward, adopted agile methodologies to implement the change, and managed the costs associated with the modernization efforts. Matt Fuchs, North American Software and Platform Engineering Lead for Health and Public Sector, Managing Director, Accenture Jessica McKean, Chief Information Officer, City of Peoria Bill Roth, Chief of Enterprise Application Services, Department of Innovation and Technology, State of Illinois The Future of the Digital User Experience Plaza C/D Often when we talk about user experience, the conversation focuses on ease-of-use. Constituents seek an intuitive, holistic, and accessible approach when working with government. How can we craft well-designed, accessible systems that understand enough about the user to personalize the experience and offer the least-restrictive option to meet that user’s needs without compromising privacy? Are we designing our systems and applications to meet the needs of individuals where they are? Join our session to give into the idea of meaningful access as we look to elevate the constituent experience for ALL that call Illinois home. Monica Carranza, Principal Digital Innovation Specialist, Worldwide Public Sector, Amazon Web Services Joe Mariani, Research Senior Manager, Deloitte Center for Government Insights, Deloitte Mike Scott, Chief Information Accessibility Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Finding, Keeping, and Growing Our Public Sector IT Talent Plaza A As the workforce landscape evolves, attracting and retaining top talent has become a critical challenge for organizations, especially the public sector. The modern workforce values flexibility, purpose-driven work, and opportunities for growth more than ever before. Where can the public sector find new talent to fill critical roles? How do we motivate and upskill our existing teams to meet the needs of an ever-evolving tech environment? This session shares creative tactics and strategies for establishing, retaining, and fostering a diverse, future-ready workforce. Moderator: Jason Barth, Chief People Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Jason Donisch, Information, Communication, and Technology Director, Will County Christopher Westgor, Technical Services Manager, Village of Schaumburg Executive Briefing for Industry Partners Diamond Ballroom Moderator: Jackie White, National Conference Director, GovTech Sanjay Gupta, Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, State of Illinois
2:30 pm Central	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Plaza E/F/G
2:45 pm Central	General Session – The Constituent Digital Experience of the Future Plaza H/I/J Constituents are accustomed to a certain level of ease and convenience when it comes to buying and receiving goods and services – typically through a click of a button on their smartphones. Ensuring this digital experience is at the top of the NASCIO priorities for 2024. In this fast-changing world, with soaring pressures to be constituent-centric, how can government keep up? How can government ensure digital equity and accessibility are embedded in their solutions? How will AI and new technologies enhance the digital experience while ensuring constituent privacy? This session will look to answer those questions and discuss what it takes to deliver government services safely, equitably, and securely. William (Bill) Rials, Ph.D., Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government
3:45 pm Central	Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area Plaza E/F/G Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.
4:15 pm Central	End of Conference Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.