Illinois IT Leadership Forum 2026
Overview
The Illinois IT Leadership Forum is where tomorrow’s government leaders grow today.
This invitation-only gathering brings together state and local IT executives, emerging leaders, and visionary thinkers for candid conversations on the future of public-sector technology. Focused on leadership development, innovation, and strategy, the Forum goes beyond the tech to address the people, policies, and practices shaping digital government. Through peer exchange and practical sessions, participants gain the insights, relationships, and skills needed to lead their organizations and communities into the future.
The Illinois IT Leadership Forum is an investment in the people who power government across the State of Illinois. As technology reshapes how services are delivered and protected, our IT leaders must be connected, informed, and ready to lead. This forum brings together technology professionals from across state and local government to share ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen how we serve the public. I encourage leaders at every level to support their teams’ participation, because strong technology leadership is essential to building secure, modern, and resilient government for the communities we serve.
- Brandon Ragle, State Chief Information Officer and Acting Secretary, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology
Speakers
Carl Conner
Associate Director, University of Illinois
Carl Conner serves as Associate Director of IT Security and Compliance for the Office of Medicaid Innovation, leading the organization’s data security, HIPAA compliance, and risk mitigation efforts. Acting as the primary technical liaison to OMI funders and to HFS’ Chief Information Security Office, Carl ensures that data sharing, storage, and system access requirements are clearly defined and consistently implemented. Their work strengthens OMI’s security posture and supports responsible, compliant use of sensitive health information.
Hei-Chi Chan
Associate Professor of Mathematics at University of Illinois Springfield
Dr. Hei-Chi Chan (Ph.D., Yale University) is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS). His teaching spans data analytics, mathematics for AI and machine learning, and quantum computing.
Together with Dr. Neetu Singh (MIS, UIS), Dr. Chan co-founded the UIS AI Campus Learning Community (AICLC) with the mission of connecting learners and experts to promote AI literacy and readiness for all. Within its first two years, AICLC reached more than 1,000 participants, both in person and remotely. Additionally, we have had experts from Google, AWS, Microsoft, and other industry leaders speaking at our events.
Dr. Chan also serves as co-chair of the AI Connector Network (AICN), a community of practice within the Illinois Innovation Network. AICN aims to connect practitioners at all stages of AI adoption to collaborate on creating scalable impact for organizations and communities, with a strong emphasis on cultural transformation.
Dr. Ty Dooley
Interim Director & Associate Professor, School of Public Management & Policy, University of Illinois Springfield \
Karry Hopkins
Deputy Chief Operations officer, Illinois State Treasurer’s Office
Karry serves as the Deputy Chief Operations Officer for the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office, where he leads a small, high impact team of project managers delivering technology and process improvements across the organization. With more than a decade of experience across project management, business analysis, IT change delivery, and operations leadership, he brings a practical understanding of how small teams can drive outsized impact. Before joining state government in 2019, Karry worked in the home mortgage industry as a business analyst and scrum master. He holds a BS in applied communication from SIU Edwardsville, a graduate certificate in geographic information systems from the University of Illinois Springfield where he is completing his Master of Public Administration. Karry also maintains a PMP certification and is a Certified Scrum Master. He’s driven by a commitment to helping teams maximize their impact, no matter their size or structure.
Jenifer L. Johnson
Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology
Jenifer L. Johnson has 20+ years of experience as a senior executive in Illinois state and local government in both legal and strategy roles. In her current role as Chief of Staff for the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology, Jenifer serves as the principal strategic advisor to the State CIO and drives alignment across the DoIT executive leadership team. She received her J.D. from Northern Illinois University College of Law and her B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.
Sharon Kelly
Manager, Enterprise Applications, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology
Strategic Leader & Application Development Manager with 25+ years of experience and a background in oversight of operations within a variety of environments. Significant knowledge in the areas of project management methodology, user-testing, data analysis, and team leadership. Excel in identifying areas for operational improvement and devising appropriate solutions. Demonstrated success in creating comprehensive technical documentation, solving complex problems, and improving staff productivity/engagement levels. Started IT career in banking and finance. Started government career at Cook County, Chicago and transferred to state government 13 years ago.
Andy Martin
Group Chief Information Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology
John Renick
Chief Digital and Operations Officer, Illinois State Treasurer’s Office
Bradley A. Smith
Chief of Enterprise Application Service, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology
Brad serves as the Chief of Enterprise Application Services for the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT). In this role, Brad leads statewide application strategy, modernization, and service delivery for critical platforms and products supporting Illinois agencies and residents.
Agenda
Tuesday, June 2 |
|
8:00 am Central |
Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit AreaDiamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-Function |
9:00 am Central |
Welcome and Opening RemarksDiamond/Emerald BallroomChristopher Britten, Assistant Secretary & Deputy State CIO, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology |
9:15 am Central |
Keynote - Full Throttle Leadership: Strategies for the Modern Tech LandscapeDiamond/Emerald BallroomWhen you're moving fast and the stakes are high, there's no room for guesswork and no time to second-guess yourself. Public sector tech leaders face mounting pressure to deliver complex projects, lead through change, and keep teams motivated amid constant constraints. It’s not just about managing technology; it’s about leading people to success through uncertainty! This session draws on Julia Landauer’s experience as a NASCAR driver and innovation strategist to deliver sharp, story-driven lessons on ownership, preparation, resilience, and communication, while equipping leaders with straightforward tools to lead effectively and accelerate toward their goals. Julia Landauer, Champion Racecar Driver, Motivational Keynote Speaker |
10:15 am Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit AreaDiamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-FunctionRefuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of Recharge Break Sponsors: Deloitte, Alert IT Solutions and MSF & W Consulting |
10:45 am Central |
Concurrent SessionsLeading Through the AI Shift: Practical Approaches for Public Sector TeamsSapphire BallroomArtificial intelligence is rapidly entering environments as organizations explore responsible and productive uses of emerging tools. Yet many teams remain uncertain about where AI truly adds value. Leaders will examine realistic use cases, adoption challenges, and ways to address staff concerns about automation. Panelists will discuss how AI can support teams as a collaborative tool rather than replace them. How can technology leaders introduce AI thoughtfully while building confidence and strengthening the capabilities of their workforce? Moderator: Patrick Nolan, Deputy Secretary, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Flo Castro-Wright, Chief Data Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Hei-Chi Chan, Associate Professor of Mathematics at University of Illinois Springfield Supporting the Overwhelmed Team: Workload, Expectations, and Sustainable LeadershipRuby BallroomTechnology teams across government and education face increasing demands while resources remain limited. Leaders must balance productivity with realistic expectations and long-term team well-being. Attendees will gain insight into recognizing early signs of burnout, communicating priorities clearly, and developing healthy work habits that sustain performance. Participants will share practical approaches for delegation, project pacing, and transparent decision-making. How can leaders build resilient teams that remain productive and engaged even when workloads intensify? Moderator: Jenifer L. Johnson, Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Carl Conner, Associate Director, University of Illinois Cori Jung, IT Chief of Staff, Illinois Office of the Comptroller Bradley A. Smith, Chief of Enterprise Application Service, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology |
11:45 am Central |
LunchDiamond/Emerald Ballroom |
12:45 pm Central |
General Session - Confident Communication: Turning Technology Work into Leadership StoriesDiamond/Emerald BallroomTechnical expertise alone rarely secures long-term support for modernization initiatives. Leaders must clearly communicate the value of their work to executives, policymakers, faculty leaders, and community stakeholders. This interactive session focuses on translating complex projects into clear outcomes, delivering difficult updates with confidence, and strengthening cross-team communication. Participants will practice short storytelling exercises and exchange strategies for explaining technical work in plain language. How can stronger communication skills help IT leaders build trust and maintain momentum for critical initiatives? Presenter: Andy Martin, Group Chief Information Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology |
1:30 pm Central |
Short BreakPlease proceed to the concurrent sessions. |
1:40 pm Central |
Concurrent SessionsProving Your Impact: Demonstrating Value and Advancing as an IT LeaderSapphire BallroomSuccessful IT leaders not only deliver results but also ensure their impact is clearly understood by leadership and stakeholders. In this discussion, we will explore practical strategies for demonstrating value, communicating results, and strengthening leadership presence within an organization. Participants will also discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, build confidence, and supporting others through mentorship. How can technology leaders highlight their contributions while continuing to grow professionally and help develop the next generation of leaders? Moderator: Christopher Britten, Assistant Secretary & Deputy State CIO, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Cheryl Kulavic-Knope, Public Safety Group Chief Information Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Aparna R. Priyadarshi, Deputy Commissioner / Chief Informatics Officer (CIO), Data Infrastructure and Informatics Bureau (DIIB), Chicago Department of Public Health CDPH Michael Schnepf, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Leading Small but Mighty IT TeamsRuby BallroomMany public sector IT leaders must balance strategic planning with hands-on technical work, particularly in smaller organizations. Limited staffing often requires leaders to manage operations, security, infrastructure, and innovation simultaneously. Panelists will share practical techniques for prioritization, roadmapping, and managing competing demands while still advancing modernization goals. Leaders will share approaches for setting boundaries, making strategic tradeoffs, and maintaining focus. How can leaders maintain a clear vision when daily operational demands constantly compete for attention? Moderator: Karry Hopkins, Deputy Chief Operations officer, Illinois State Treasurer’s Office Alan S. Duncan, Applications and Development Manager, Illinois State Treasurer‘s Office Sharon Kelly, Manager, Enterprise Applications, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Jerald Setnicky, Chief Information Officer, Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology |
2:40 pm Central |
Networking Break in the Exhibit AreaDiamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-FunctionRefuel and reconnect over premium refreshments courtesy of Recharge Break Sponsors: Deloitte, Alert IT Solutions and MSF & W Consulting |
3:10 pm Central |
Building Tomorrow’s Public Sector Tech WorkforceDiamond/Emerald BallroomPublic institutions are navigating significant workforce transitions as technology evolves and experienced leaders retire. Organizations must attract, develop, and retain technology talent while preparing teams for automation and AI-enabled work environments. Experts will highlight strategies for mentorship, internal career pathways, and succession planning across government and education. Leaders will share ideas for developing future talent while strengthening current teams. What actions can today’s leaders take to ensure public sector technology teams remain innovative, resilient, and prepared for the challenges ahead? Moderator: Aaron W. Horath, Assistant to Chief of Staff, Illinois Department of Revenue Chris Oliver, Chief Information Officer, DoIT Supporting the Department of Agriculture Dr. Ty Dooley, Interim Director & Associate Professor, School of Public Management & Policy, University of Illinois Springfield Aparna R. Priyadarshi, Deputy Commissioner, Chief Informatics Officer, Data Infrastructure and Informatics Bureau (DIIB), Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) John Renick, Chief Digital and Operations Officer, Illinois State Treasurer’s Office |
4:00 pm Central |
Reception in the Exhibit AreaDiamond/Emerald Ballroom Pre-FunctionNetwork with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors. |
4:30 pm Central |
End of ConferenceConference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change. |
Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center
3000 South Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 529-7777
Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Center
Advisory Board
Government Representatives
Austin Alaria
Deputy CIO
Office of the State Treasurer
State of Illinois
Jason Barth
Chief Operating Officer
State of Illinois
Emily Bean
Chief Information Officer
Carl Sandburg College
Marc Benner
Assistant Chief Information Officer
Illinois College
Jason Bowen
Chief Information Security Officer
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
William Downing
Chief of Enterprise Architecture
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
Edobor Efam
Chief Information Officer
State Board of Education
State of Illinois
Ken Haycraft
Director of Learning and Development
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
Jenifer L. Johnson
Chief of Staff
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
Chad Leonard
CISO
Office of the Secretary of State
State of Illinois
Rachel Pevey
Group Chief Information Officer
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
Brandon Ragle
Chief Information Officer
Department of Innovation and Technology
State of Illinois
Jefferey Saiger
Chief Technology Officer
State Universities Retirement System of Illinois
Dan Sluga
Chief Information Security Officer
Office of the Comptroller
State of Illinois
Registration Information / Contact Us
Event Date: June 2, 2026
This is an invitation-only event, open to Public Sector only. For more information or to request an invitation, please contact Lindsay Anthis.
If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.
This event is open to all individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.
Contact Information
Need help registering, or have general event questions? Contact:
Lindsay Anthis
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 932-1495
E-mail: lanthis@erepublic.com
Already a sponsor, but need a hand? Reach out to:
Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone:(916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com
Want to sponsor and stand out? Reach out to explore opportunities!
Heather Earney
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 365-2308
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com