Name: Louisiana Digital Government Summit 2025
Start: 2025-08-19T08:00
Location: Crowne Plaza Executive Center

Overview

The Digital Government Summit is an event that brings together public sector leaders and technology professionals to explore innovative solutions to solve government problems. Key themes include cybersecurity, digital transformation, AI implementation, data governance, and fostering collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Attendees will benefit from expert discussions, peer networking, and insights into the future of government technology. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

OTS is proud to co-host the Louisiana Digital Government Summit with Government Technology. Across state and local government, we face complex challenges. Through technology and shared insight, we can build smarter, more resilient public services. Join us to connect, collaborate, and drive innovation in this new era of government IT.

– Matthew Vince, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Louisiana Office of Technology Services

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews

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

Founded award-winning power and data infrastructure tech company credited with inventing an energy generating soccer ball and revolutionizing vision AI in energy efficiency
Mission-driven leader who values positive social impact and inspires audience to use innovation and technology to meet everyday needs
Recognized as Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, 30 Under 30 list for Forbes and Inc., and Scientist of the Year by Harvard University
Powerhouse speaker dedicated to using technology to change the world
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 goingExclusively 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.

Director – Agency Relationship Management and Co-Chair, Enterprise Governance Group, Office of Technology Services

James Alt

Director of Engineering, Louisiana Division of Administration

Christopher M. Ard

Enterprise Data Manager, City of New Orleans

Tracy Rathbun Babineaux

Business Analytics Specialist, Office of Data Research and Statistical Analysis, LA Department of Public Safety and Corrections

Tracy Babineaux began her career with the Louisiana Department of Corrections in 2014 at Headquarters, where she is now a Business Analytics Specialist.  She works within the Office of Data Research and Statistical Analysis supporting business processes for data collection and analysis for all inmate related data for our agency. Her primary focus is on data utilization and visualization. She acts as the Tableau Project Manager for the department. Her position gives her the opportunity to learn and work with the many different sections that keeps DPS&C moving forward.

Ben Barnes

Senior Business Analyst, Louisiana Office of Technology Services

Ben Barnes is a Senior Business Analyst with Louisiana's Office of Technology Services, where he initiated and leads the Business Analysis Center of Excellence, advancing business analysis practice across the Office of Technology Services. With over eight years of experience modernizing state agency operations, he currently serves as the lead business analyst for Louisiana's Citizen Portal (my.la.gov), a transformative single sign-on initiative streamlining citizen access to services across multiple state agencies. A certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA), Ben holds an MBA with a specialization in Project Management from Louisiana State University, Shreveport. He is passionate about designing solutions that create efficiencies for Louisiana's public agencies.

Lee Biles

Lead Solution Engineer, Salesforce

Lee Biles is a 14x Certified, Lead Solution Engineer at Salesforce, specializing in leveraging cutting-edge Salesforce and AI innovations to drive successful transformation within the public sector. With a robust background in enterprise software, Lee's expertise empowers government agencies to improve citizen services and optimize operations.
Lee's expertise spans various domains within the Salesforce ecosystem, with a particular focus on implementing AI solutions within state and local governments. He empowers organizations by translating intricate AI concepts into practical, tangible benefits, enabling them for significant customer success.
As a valued contributor to the panel, Lee will share actionable insights on the real-world application of AI within government, drawing upon his extensive experience in guiding agencies through their adoption journeys. His unique journey from government customer to implementer and now trailblazing leader at Salesforce offers invaluable guidance on navigating challenges and maximizing the potential of AI technologies to address government needs.

Grant Black III

Director of Technology, St. Tammany Parish Government  

Grant Black is a distinguished technology leader with a remarkable career spanning over 25 years in the IT industry. His journey has been one of constant innovation and transformation, marked by his diverse roles as a Director of Technology, Program manager, Developer, System Administrator, Database Administrator, System Integrator, and System Architect. Grant's exceptional expertise was brought to the forefront when he spearheaded the pioneering migration of the U.S. Navy's First Large System into the Amazon Web Services Cloud, achieving the first cloud full DoD accreditation. Currently, he stands as the preeminent IT figure for a 1,200-person organization, steering its technological future with a firm hand. In his role as Director of Technology at St. Tammany Parish Government, Grant commands a realm of technological functions ranging from Cybersecurity to Geographic Information Services. He is the architect of largescale projects, such as creating and leading the development of a public private partnership to provide internet access thousands of citizens. His tenure as Manager of Production Operations at General Dynamics Information Technology saw him navigate the migration of a 400,000 user system to AWS while leading a diverse team of 35 IT Subject Matter Experts. In the capacity of a Technical Project Manager, he adeptly bridged the gap between Program Managers and Technical Staff, leading major DoD system migrations ensuring seamless communication and efficient task completion.
Beyond his professional achievements, Grant's impact extends to his role as a host of the "Tammany Tech 101" TV Show. His recognition as the Louisiana IT Symposium 2023 Louisiana IT Leader of the Year, accolades like the Space and Naval Warfare Center Information Technology Performance Award and inclusion in the Lockheed Martin High Potential Employee's List showcases his enduring commitment and outstanding contributions to the IT realm.

Ashley Brassette

Director, Technology Capabilities, Access Sciences

Ashley Brassette leads Technology Capabilities at Access Sciences, where she focuses on delivering inclusive, user-centered solutions. With a background in intelligent information management and project services, Ashley is a champion for digital accessibility and equitable design. Known for strategic thinking and collaborative leadership, Ashley works closely with teams across the organization to deliver impactful technology solutions. Her commitment to accessibility and continuous improvement makes her a trusted leader in the field.

Matt Brickey

Program Director, Hunt, Guillot & Associates

Matt Brickey, Program Director, has 23 years of experience in project and logistics management, including experience with federal programs such as the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). He has in-depth knowledge of federal regulations and compliance, and his career background includes extensive delivery of key priorities in information technology, operations, supply chain, and construction.

John W. Burris, Ph.D.

Chief Information Officer, Associate Professor of Computer Science, Southeastern Louisiana University

Dr. John W. Burris is the Chief Information Officer at Southeastern Louisiana University. He holds the academic rank of Associate Professor of Computer Science. Originally from Franklinton, LA, John is driven by the practical applications of technology whether it is at the university or his family farm. His research areas include computing theory, cybersecurity, ERP systems, software engineering, machine learning, project management, and policy/governance.

Charles Burton

Calcasieu Parish Technology Director

Charles Burton has led technology teams in Louisiana government for 20 years and is currently the Calcasieu Parish Technology Director. Data Center and communication modernization projects along with Cybersecurity programs have been some of his successful accomplishments with disaster recovery being one of the more challenging success stories. He holds a Masters in Cybersecurity and bachelor’s in computer science. His certificates include ITIL, PMP, CGCIO, CISSP, CompTIA as well as Microsoft certificates. 
Mr. Burton serves on several boards and committees at the National, State and Local levels, he speaks at conferences and advises on the topics of Cybersecurity & Technology. Mr. Burton is involved in several community organizations where he resides in Lake Charles, LA with his wife and family. 

Jessica Byerly

National Conference Director, Government Technology

Jason Carr

Enterprise GIS Manager, GIS & Mapping, Office of Planning, Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development

Jason Carr, Enterprise GIS Manager at LaDOTD, is a driving force behind the agency's geospatial innovation. Since 2017, he's led the modernization of LaDOTD's GIS, overseeing the development of key web applications for environmental screening, operations, project development, and emergency response. He also spearheads the integration of business systems with GIS for enhanced analysis and reporting. With 27 years of GIS development and management expertise, including 19 years as a consultant, Jason brings a wealth of experience to his role, which also includes serving on the Louisiana Geographic Information Systems Council. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography from LSU.

Isral Duke

UI/UX Design Lead, Louisiana Division of Administration

Isral C. Duke is the Lead UI / UX designer for Louisiana Office of Technology services. He has worked on native mobile apps, web applications, and websites for clients in the higher education, insurance, sports, maritime, construction, and medical spaces. As accessibility is human right, he relentlessly adocates for it in state government. He holds various accessibility certifications including the federal Trusted Tester certification.

Business Analyst Specialist

Jade Freeman

Business Analysis Manager-Product Delivery , Louisiana Office of Technology

Adan Hernandes

Strategy Senior Manager, Accenture

Adan Hernandez is a Senior Manager in Accenture’s Public Service Strategy group where he serves as the North American Lead for Accenture’s Workforce Development and Labor practice. Adan has extensive experience across the country in Public Service innovation, talent strategy engagements, complex large-scale assessments, and service delivery redesign and implementations. He works with public service organizations on issues related to workforce strategy, benchmarking, policy implementation, economic development, operating model redesign, and organizational transformation. Adan collaborates with government clients to define community-focused outcomes and strategies, turning those conceptual goals into tangible, realistic, and measurable targets. Adan holds a bachelor’s degree in government from the University of Texas at Austin. Adan has co-authored publications with his clients that have been featured in publications such as the American Public Human Services Association’s Policy and Practice Journal.

Chief Information Officer, City of New Orleans

Melodie L. Landry

Outreach Coordinator, Information Services Department, East Baton Rouge City-Parish

Melodie L. Landry is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Communications. She served for thirteen years in the East Baton Rouge Parish Library System as the Outreach Collections Development Specialist, supervising in technical support, programming, and operational amelioration.
Throughout her career, Melodie has delivered motivational speeches, led community outreach programs, and conducted communication workshops for a wide range of organizations.
Currently, she serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the Information Services Department of the City-Parish of East Baton Rouge. In this role, she supports the Data, Analytics, and Performance Section in promoting open data and government transparency, while also assisting with onboarding citywide data strategies and utilizing various AI software to enhance resident engagement with City-Parish services.

Director of Analysis - Product Delivery, Louisiana Office of Technology Services

Lester J. Millet, III

Safety Risk Agency Manager, Port of South Louisiana,

Sergio Ortega

Sales and Business Development Lead AI/ML SLG US, Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Sergio Ortega serves as the Business Development Lead for AI/ML Worldwide Public Sector at Amazon Web Services, focusing on State and Local Governments. With over 20 years of experience in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Analytics, Sergio is a recognized leader in driving technological innovation in the public sector. Previously at Microsoft Corporation, he led global strategies for Metaverse, IoT, and AI solutions. He holds a Master's in Data Science from CUNY, an MBA from the University of Warwick (UK), and degrees in Computer Science and Public Policy. Sergio is passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex governmental challenges

Wes Palmer

Geospatial Manger, Hunt, Guillot & Associates

Wes Palmer, Geospatial Manager, has more than 16 years of experience using GIS and geospatial data to support a variety of projects. He has worked on multi-scale data acquisition and mapping projects to support local, state, and federal clients, producing complex data interlays that can be easily understood by the public and elected officials. He is an ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist (CP), Certified Mapping Scientist (CMS), and GIS Professional (GISP).

Bill Rials

Senior Fellow, Government Technology

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.

Infrastructure Manager, Department of Information Technology, City of Shreveport

Johnathon Sprouse

Chief Technology Officer, LASERS

Johnathon Sprouse serves as the Chief Technology Officer for the Louisiana State Employees’ Retirement System (LASERS), a $15 billion pension fund providing services to more than 90,000 members. With over 16 years of dedicated experience at LASERS, he provides the technology vision and strategic leadership for the agency's Information Technology Division.
Johnathon is passionate about leveraging innovative solutions to improve government operations and services. He is actively focused on exploring emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to identify opportunities for enhancing business efficiency and driving value in the public sector. His expertise in strategic planning, cybersecurity, and data analysis allows him to effectively bridge the gap between technology and policy, ensuring the development of cost-effective and efficient programs that successfully support the LASERS mission.

Cherita K. Taylor

Assistant Director of Information Services, City of Baton Rouge/Parish of East Baton Rouge Information Services 

Cherita K. Taylor serves as the Assistant Director of Information Services for the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge. In this role, she oversees the daily operations of technology solutions and drives operational efficiency through engagement and transparency. With more than 15 years of experience in the IT industry, Cherita is recognized for fostering strategic relationships and advancing sustainable development to enhance IT governance. In addition to her leadership in technology, Cherita has an extensive background in communications, with experience spanning radio, television, and marketing advocacy. She holds a master’s degree in communications and is a proud alumna of Southern University and A&M College. Her unique blend of IT expertise and business acumen allows her to successfully bridge the private sector and municipal operations. Beyond her professional endeavors, Cherita is actively involved in philanthropic initiatives and is passionate about creating positive community impact by balancing her professional excellence with strong commitment to personal fulfillment and service.

Ricky Tucker

UX/UI Designer, Louisiana Division of Administration

Ricky Tucker is a UX/UI designer for Louisiana's Office of Technology Services. In addition to contributing to the state's Design System, Pelican, he works daily with state agencies to develop digital products with the goal of improving the lives of Louisiana residents. Ricky holds certifications from Meta and Google, as was well as the W3Cx Introduction to Web Accessibility certificate.

Robert Vehock

Program Manager, Office of Reentry and Education, Department of Public Safety & Corrections 

Robert works as a Program Manager for the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, Office of Reentry. In his current role, Robert is responsible for several BJA grants as well as multiple other statewide programs. Robert’s career has spanned over 20 years mostly in the criminal justice field. He earned his BS at University of Louisiana at Lafayette and his MPA from the Louisiana State University Public Administration Institute.

Matthew Vince

Deputy Chief Information Officer, State of Louisiana

View Speakers

Agenda

Tuesday, August 19
8:00 am Central	Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area Premier 2 Ballroom
9:00 am Central	Welcome and Opening Remarks Premier 1 Ballroom Matthew Vince, Deputy Chief Information Officer, State of Louisiana
9:15 am Central	Keynote – Find Your Fight: Innovating When the Odds Are Against You Premier 1 Ballroom In moments when challenges feel insurmountable, and the odds are stacked against us, how do we find the will to fight—and win? In this powerful and energizing talk, Jessica O. Matthews shares how the most groundbreaking innovations often emerge from struggle, uncertainty, and adversity. Drawing from her journey as a pioneering entrepreneur and inventor, Jessica explores how resilience, creativity, and relentless problem-solving can transform even the toughest setbacks into opportunities for impact and growth. This session will help you reframe challenges as opportunities for breakthrough innovation, develop resilience during moments of struggle, and uncover determination to keep fighting for transformative solutions. Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate
10:15 am Central	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Premier 2 Ballroom
10:45 am Central	Concurrent Sessions Discovering AI’s Value in Government Mississippi /Delta Room As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, public agencies are exploring its potential to enhance services, optimize operations, and inform decision-making, all while upholding ethics and the human element. This session explores how governments are leveraging generative AI to automate routine tasks, expedite policy development, and streamline documentation workflows. Through real-world use cases and practical frameworks, discover how leaders are implementing AI responsibly, prioritizing transparency, equity, and workforce empowerment. Learn how human-centered design and ethical guardrails can ensure AI enhances, rather than replaces, the vital work of public servants. Moderator: John W. Burris, Ph.D., Chief Information Officer, Associate Professor of Computer Science, Southeastern Louisiana University Johnathon Sprouse, Chief Technology Officer, Louisiana State Employees’ Retirement System Robert Vehock, Program Manager, Office of Reentry and Education, Department of Public Safety & Corrections Lee Biles, Lead Solution Engineer, Salesforce Sergio Ortega, Sales and Business Development Lead AI/ML SLG US, Amazon Web Services Empowering Louisiana Through No-Code and Low-Code Innovation Bayou/Levee Room No-code and low-code platforms offer a powerful opportunity for Louisiana’s public sector to accelerate innovation and reduce IT backlogs. These tools can empower staff to create solutions without the need for traditional software development. This session will explore how agencies can utilize no-code and low-code platforms to streamline services, enhance responsiveness, and boost efficiency. Attendees will learn how to implement these technologies securely and in compliance with state standards, creating a scalable path to modernization and better service delivery. Moderator: Charles Burton, Calcasieu Parish Technology Director Tracy Rathbun Babineaux, Business Analytics Specialist, Office of Data Research and Statistical Analysis, LA Department of Public Safety and Corrections Jason Carr, Enterprise GIS Manager, GIS & Mapping, Office of Planning, Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development The Role of the Business Analyst in Modernization by Design Riverboat Room Behind every successful IT modernization effort is someone translating vision into impact. Business Analysts are the essential bridge between strategy, technology, and user needs. This session will explore how agencies are leveraging Business Analysts (Bas)—whether formally titled or organically grown—to guide modernization, align solutions with real-world problems, and drive better service outcomes. Discover why investing in this role is becoming a critical success factor for public sector transformation and hear firsthand stories from the team members who are on the ground, doing the work to modernize technology. Moderator: Susan Eversull, Business Analyst Specialist Ben Barnes, Senior Business Analyst-Product Delivery, Louisiana Office of Technology Jade Freeman, Business Analysis Manager-Product Delivery , Louisiana Office of Technology Brian McNutt , Director of Analysis- Product Delivery, Louisiana Office of Technology Services Advancing Digital Accessibility Creole Room As digital services expand, governments must address challenges related to infrastructure, platform usability, and compliance with standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 to meet accessibility requirements. This session explores practical approaches to enhancing digital access, ensuring web and application accessibility, and promoting user success. We'll spotlight how Louisiana is advancing these efforts through improved connectivity and user-centered technology design. Moderator: Bill Rials, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government, Government Technology James Alt, Director of Engineering, Louisiana Division of Administration Isral Duke, UI/UX Design Lead, Louisiana Division of Administration Ricky Tucker, UX/UI Designer, Louisiana Division of Administration Ashley Brassette, Director, Technology Capabilities, Access Sciences
11:45 am Central	Lunch Premier 1 Ballroom
12:45 pm Central	General Session – The Digital Government Challenge Premier 1 Ballroom Join us for a fun and engaging change of pace where we’ll put your knowledge to the test with an interactive trivia game! Our panel of experts will be on stage, not just to weigh in on the answers, but to share their insights, experiences, and wisdom along the way. This session will be a perfect blend of learning and laughter, highlighting key themes from the event while maintaining a lighthearted and engaging tone. Don’t miss this chance to reflect and gain new perspectives.
1:15 pm Central	Short Break Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.
1:30 pm Central	Concurrent Sessions AI Control & Security Mississippi /Delta Room Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming government operations—streamlining services, enhancing decision-making, and driving innovation. However, as these technologies become more powerful, they introduce new risks, including a broader attack surface for cyber threats. Without public trust, even the most promising AI initiatives can falter. Explore new approaches to responsible AI adoption, with a focus on ethical governance and cybersecurity. We'll examine how the state is developing policy frameworks that emphasize accountability, fairness, and transparency while protecting sensitive data and ensuring system resilience. Moderator: Melodie L. Landry, Outreach Coordinator, Information Services Department, East Baton Rouge City-Parish Grant Black III, Director of Technology, St. Tammany Parish Government Cherita K. Taylor, Assistant Director of Information Services, City of Baton Rouge/Parish of East Baton Rouge Information Services Turning Crisis into Continuity with Risk Management and Resilience Bayou/Levee Room Louisiana faces significant threats from hurricanes, flooding, and extreme weather events that can disrupt essential government operations. Maintaining public safety and continuity of services demands proactive planning, strong interagency coordination, and resilient infrastructure. This session will highlight best practices in disaster preparedness, emergency response, and IT recovery strategies that support operational stability during a crisis. Hear how Louisiana agencies are advancing their continuity of operations (COOP) efforts, adopting real-time technologies, and ensuring critical services stay accessible when communities need them most. Moderator: D.J. Smith, Infrastructure Manager, Department of Information Technology, City of Shreveport Christopher M. Ard, Enterprise Data Manager, City of New Orleans Charles Burton, Calcasieu Parish Technology Director Kimberly W. LaGrue, Chief Information Officer, City of New Orleans Lester J. Millet, III, Safety Risk Agency Manager, Port of South Louisiana, Upskilling the Workforce Through Recruitment, Retention, and Reality Riverboat Room Emerging technologies are transforming the public sector, but technical skills alone won't ensure success. Strong leadership, adaptability, and communication are essential to navigating this shift. This session goes beyond tech, focusing on soft skills that empower future leaders. Learn upskilling, retraining, and change management strategies to help teams thrive in a Technology-driven workplace. Explore redefining roles, fostering continuous learning, and confidently leading in a rapidly evolving landscape. HR leaders, CIOs, and future leaders will leave with actionable insights to build resilient, adaptable teams ready for the future. Moderator: Bill Rials, Senior Fellow, Government Technology Tom Allsup, Director – Agency Relationship Management and Co-Chair, Enterprise Governance Group, Office of Technology Services Brian McNutt , Director of Analysis- Product Delivery, Louisiana Office of Technology Services Adan Hernandez, Strategy Senior Manager, Accenture Exclusive Briefing for Industry Partners Creole Room Hosted by: Matthew Vince, Deputy Chief Information Officer, State of Louisiana
2:30 pm Central	Networking Break in the Exhibit Area Premier 2 Ballroom
2:50 pm Central	Bits and Bytes – BEAD Mapping: Tracking Progress, Closing the Gaps Premier 1 Ballroom How do you know if your broadband strategy is working? You map it. Louisiana’s push for better broadband access depends on more than funding—it depends on precision. This session will provide an update on broadband initiatives across the state, including how underground mapping and BEAD grant strategies are driving more intelligent decisions and faster progress. Hear how engineering teams, data analysts, and local partners are working together to identify unserved areas, track buildouts, and close coverage gaps. Matt Brickey, Program Director, Hunt, Guillot & Associates Wes Palmer, Geospatial Manager, Hunt, Guillot & Associates
3:15 pm Central	General Session – AI 2025– From Administrative Assistance to Agentic AI Premier 1 Ballroom As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, organizations are moving beyond AI as a simple administrative assistant to leveraging more autonomous, decision-making "agentic AI." This session will explore the transition from task-based automation to AI systems capable of reasoning, adapting, and executing complex workflows with minimal human intervention. Attendees will gain insights into how governments can leverage these advancements while ensuring transparency, control, and alignment with human values and goals. Whether you're an executive, technologist, or policymaker, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the AI landscape of 2025 and beyond. Bill Rials, Senior Fellow, Government Technology
4:00 pm Central	Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area Premier 2 Ballroom Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.
4:30 pm Central	End of Conference Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

Crowne Plaza Executive Center

4728 Constitution Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
225-925-2244

Get Directions To
Crowne Plaza Executive Center

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Tom Allsup
Agency Relationship Management Director
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Anthony Ayo
Chief Information Officer
St. Charles Parish Government

Grant Black III
Director
Information Technology
St. Tammany Parish

Evelina Broussard
Chief Information Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

John Burris
Chief Information Officer
Office of Technology
Southeastern Louisiana University

Charles Burton
Technology Director
Calcasieu Parish

Arielle Collins
Program Manager
Division of Administration
Connect Louisiana

Jeremy Deal
Chief Technology Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

David Dousay
Information Technology Director, Strategy Planning and Administration
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Dennis Gakunga
Deputy Chief Information Officer
City of New Orleans

Dustin Glover
Chief Cyber Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Emmy Hicks
Program Manager
Division of Administration
Connect Louisiana

Chase Hymel
Chief Information Security Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Tai Istre
Information Technology Statewide Project Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Kevin Jackson
IT Director
Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control
State of Louisiana

Kimberly W. LaGrue
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology and Innovation
City of New Orleans

Jonathan London
Technology Director
Department of Public Safety and Corrections
State of Louisiana

Natalie Newsom
Manager Contracted Delivery
Division of Administration
State of Louisiana

Brandon Odeay
IT Director
Ascension Parish

Amanda Osborn-Kurall
Department Administrator
Information Technology
St. Tammany Parish Government

Karthik Poobalasubramanian
Assistant Commissioner for Information and Data Services
Louisiana Board of Regents

Eric Romero
Chief Information Officer
Information Services
City of Baton Rouge & Parish of East Baton Rouge

Johnathon Sprouse
Chief Technology Officer
State of Louisiana
State Employees Retirement System

Cherita Taylor
Deputy Chief Information Officer
City of Baton Rouge & Parish of East Baton Rouge

Thomas Tyler
Deputy Director, ConnectLA
Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity, Department of Administration
State of Louisiana

Matthew Vince
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Office of Technology Services
State of Louisiana

Industry Representatives

Brett Brock
Senior Account Executive
Amazon Web Services

Glenn Frederickson
Director of Records Management Operations, Business Process Outsourcing
Access Sciences Corporation

Cristian Musk
Client Account Lead
Accenture

Mike Rech
Strategic Account Executive
Salesforce

Made Possible by Our Corporate Sponsors

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: August 19, 2025

Open to Public Sector only.

Registration - Free

If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.

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:

Audrey Houser
Government Technology
A division of e.Republic
Phone: (916) 932-1420
E-mail: ahouser@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

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Louisiana Digital Government Summit 2025

Overview

A message from our Keynote Speaker

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews

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

Tom Allsup

Director – Agency Relationship Management and Co-Chair, Enterprise Governance Group, Office of Technology Services

James Alt

Director of Engineering, Louisiana Division of Administration

Christopher M. Ard

Enterprise Data Manager, City of New Orleans

Tracy Rathbun Babineaux

Business Analytics Specialist, Office of Data Research and Statistical Analysis, LA Department of Public Safety and Corrections

Ben Barnes

Senior Business Analyst, Louisiana Office of Technology Services

Lee Biles

Lead Solution Engineer, Salesforce

Grant Black III

Director of Technology, St. Tammany Parish Government

Ashley Brassette

Director, Technology Capabilities, Access Sciences

Matt Brickey

Program Director, Hunt, Guillot & Associates

John W. Burris, Ph.D.

Chief Information Officer, Associate Professor of Computer Science, Southeastern Louisiana University

Charles Burton

Calcasieu Parish Technology Director

Jessica Byerly

National Conference Director, Government Technology

Jason Carr

Enterprise GIS Manager, GIS & Mapping, Office of Planning, Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development

Isral Duke

UI/UX Design Lead, Louisiana Division of Administration

Susan Eversull

Business Analyst Specialist

Jade Freeman

Business Analysis Manager-Product Delivery , Louisiana Office of Technology

Adan Hernandes

Strategy Senior Manager, Accenture

Kimberly W. LaGrue

Chief Information Officer, City of New Orleans

Melodie L. Landry

Outreach Coordinator, Information Services Department, East Baton Rouge City-Parish

Brian McNutt

Director of Analysis - Product Delivery, Louisiana Office of Technology Services

Lester J. Millet, III

Safety Risk Agency Manager, Port of South Louisiana,

Sergio Ortega

Sales and Business Development Lead AI/ML SLG US, Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Wes Palmer

Geospatial Manger, Hunt, Guillot & Associates

Bill Rials

Senior Fellow, Government Technology

D.J. Smith

Infrastructure Manager, Department of Information Technology, City of Shreveport

Johnathon Sprouse

Chief Technology Officer, LASERS

Cherita K. Taylor

Assistant Director of Information Services, City of Baton Rouge/Parish of East Baton Rouge Information Services

Ricky Tucker

UX/UI Designer, Louisiana Division of Administration

Robert Vehock

Program Manager, Office of Reentry and Education, Department of Public Safety & Corrections

Matthew Vince

Deputy Chief Information Officer, State of Louisiana

Agenda

Tuesday, August 19

8:00 am Central

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Premier 2 Ballroom

9:00 am Central

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Premier 1 Ballroom

9:15 am Central

Keynote – Find Your Fight: Innovating When the Odds Are Against You

Premier 1 Ballroom

10:15 am Central

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

Premier 2 Ballroom

Director of Technology, St. Tammany Parish Government  

Assistant Director of Information Services, City of Baton Rouge/Parish of East Baton Rouge Information Services 

Program Manager, Office of Reentry and Education, Department of Public Safety & Corrections 