Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

Opening Remarks

Dru Rai, Chief Information Officer and Director, Office of Information Technology Services, State of New York

Keynote- Strengthening the Shield: Cybersecurity and AI in a New Threat Landscape

There is no question – public-sector leaders must continue to strengthen their cyber hygiene, foster cross-sector partnerships, and adapt to the evolving threat landscape. Join Rachel Wilson, former NSA cyber operations leader, for an engaging and action-driven keynote that bridges real-world cybersecurity expertise with the challenges of emerging technologies. Drawing on her experience safeguarding critical systems, Rachel explores the heightened risks posed by AI-enabled threats like ransomware, insider attacks, and credential exploitation. This session is a call to action for everyone, from CIOs to frontline technologists, to embrace a proactive and resilient approach to protecting critical assets in the age of AI.

Rachel Wilson, Managing Director Chief Data Officer, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management and Former NSA Senior Executive

Fireside Chat – Inside New York’s Data and AI Strategy: From Foundation to Impact

As New York State advances its data and artificial intelligence capabilities, agencies are moving from exploration to execution—leveraging data as a strategic asset to improve decision-making, enhance service delivery, and drive mission outcomes. In this executive-level fireside chat, members of the State’s AI leadership team will share a candid look at the priorities shaping New York’s approach. The conversation will explore how the State is building a modern data ecosystem, where the greatest opportunities for AI exist, and what challenges remain around governance, interoperability, workforce readiness, and public trust. Join us for a forward-looking discussion that sets the tone for the day—highlighting how New York is turning data into actionable intelligence while navigating the complexities of responsible AI adoption.

Jenson Jacob, Executive Deputy Chief Information Officer, Office of Information Technology Services, State of New York

Eleonore Fournier-Tombs, Chief AI Officer, Office of Information Technology Services, State of New York

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

General Session – Building the Data Foundation: Powering AI Across New York

AI is only as effective as the data behind it. Before agencies can scale advanced analytics or deploy AI responsibly, they must first establish a strong data foundation—one built on quality, accessibility, governance, and trust. In this session, we will explore what it takes to build and sustain that foundation across a complex, multi-agency environment. From improving data quality and standardization to enabling secure, responsible data sharing, panelists will discuss the infrastructure, policies, and cultural shifts required to treat data as a true enterprise asset.

General Session- Governing AI in a Data-Driven World: Privacy, Ethics, and Accountability

As AI adoption accelerates, the challenge is no longer whether to innovate—but how to do so responsibly. Public-sector leaders must balance opportunity with obligation, ensuring that data is used ethically, transparently, and in ways that maintain public trust. In this session, we will explore how agencies are establishing governance frameworks that go beyond compliance to enable responsible AI at scale. Topics will include data privacy, acceptable use policies, model accountability, bias detection and mitigation, and ethical decision-making in high-impact environments. Through real-world examples, panelists will discuss how governance structures support informed decision-making while allowing agencies to innovate with confidence.

Lunch and Networking in the Exhibit Area

Short Break

Please proceed to the General Session

General Session – Protecting Data in the Age of AI

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how local governments deliver services, but it is also quietly reshaping how sensitive data can be exposed or stolen. In this thought-provoking session, cybersecurity leader Bill Carter explores why traditional compliance alone cannot protect public-sector data in the AI era and introduces practical strategies for building "AI-Safe" data defenses that enable innovation while safeguarding trust. Attendees will gain fresh insight into modern data loss risks, from accidental AI-driven exposure to evolving exfiltration tactics. Learn how forward-thinking governments can protect what matters most while embracing the future.

Bill Carter, National Director of Cybersecurity Strategy, Public Sector, Fortinet

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

General Session – Deploying AI at Scale: Data, Talent, and Responsible Execution

Scaling AI across government requires more than technology—it demands the right data, strong governance, embedded privacy practices, and a workforce prepared to operationalize it effectively. As agencies move from pilots to enterprise deployment, leaders must navigate increasing complexity around data size, sensitivity, interoperability, and organizational readiness. In this session, we will explore what it takes to deploy AI at scale across diverse agencies and use cases. Panelists will discuss how to manage large and sensitive datasets, build internal capabilities, and align teams around shared goals—while embedding Privacy by Design principles from the start.

General Session – Data and AI in Practice: Delivering Outcomes in Health, Education, and Human Services

Data and AI are reshaping how government delivers critical services, creating new opportunities to improve outcomes, increase efficiency, and better serve residents. But turning potential into impact requires more than technology alone. In this session, public sector leaders will share real-world examples of how data and AI are being applied across health, education, and human services. From improving program effectiveness to streamlining service delivery and supporting more informed, equitable decisions, panelists will highlight lessons learned and practical strategies for success. Join us to explore how New York is leveraging data and AI to drive meaningful, resident-centered outcomes across the state.

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

End of Summit

Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change