Kentucky Digital Government Summit 2025 Banner

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

Speakers

Adam Elias

Adam Elias

Assistant Provost for Online and Innovative Learning, Bellarmine University

Adam Elias is Assistant Provost for Online and Innovative Learning at Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, where he is responsible for the institution's digital transformation of academics while supporting innovation at the university more broadly, most recently including artificial intelligence.  Adam writes the AI-focused "BrAInstorm" column for Bellarmine Magazine and teaches a freshman class called "AI, Humanity, and the Future."  Adam has spent nearly 20 years in the field of higher education, at institutions in both the public and private sectors.  He earned a BS in Software and Data Engineering from Bellarmine University, a BA in Sociology and an MS in Human Development from Murray State University, and a Master of Public Administration from Western Kentucky University.  Adam is originally from Paducah and now lives in Mount Washington, Kentucky.

More
Derek A. Clark

Derek A. Clark

Manager, Electronic Records Branch, KY Department for Libraries and Archives

Derek Clark has been the Electronic Records Branch Manager at KDLA since March, 2019, and has been with the State Archives since 2015. The Electronic Records Branch offers guidance to state and local agencies on preservation, digitization, storage systems, and records management, and performs digital preservation for permanent state records within the Kentucky State Digital Archives. The branch assists the State and Local Records Branches with retention scheduling and records management training.  Additionally, Derek serves as the chair to the multi-agency Electronic Records Working Group. Derek holds a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of Kentucky, and a Bachelor’s in English from Marshall University. He has worked in the Library and Information Science field over 20 years.

More
Neal Gallucci

Neal Gallucci

Senior Solutions Consultant, Socure 

Neal is a driven leader focusing on major digital transformation that constantly challenges the norms of the public sector. Neal has a wide variety of experience in identity and access management, identity verification, criminal/fraud investigations, technical architecture, project management, change management, and steady state operations.
At Socure, Neal is the Senior Manager of Solution Consulting within Socure’s Public Sector team where he is responsible for providing fully inclusive oversight and guidance of Socure’s industry leading product suite and integration into Government systems. 
In Neal's previous public position, he built and led the digital identity platform for one of the largest states. In this role Neal accomplished major digital transformations migrating the State’s existing identity system to a cloud identity system, implementing Single Sign On to thousands of applications (Unemployment, BMV, Medicaid, etc) including MFA and identity verification services. Additionally, Neal led the User Experience/Website platform with over 150+ government websites, and the digital platform for State’s coronavirus pandemic response. At Socure, Neal continues to lead all of Socure's major projects as a dedicated advisor to the State's business and implementation teams. 

More
Sarah Garrett

Sarah Garrett

Electronic Records Analyst, KY Department for Libraries and Archives

Sarah Garrett is the Electronic Records Analyst serving all State and Local Agencies in Kentucky. She has over a decade of experience in Records Management and Information Technology. She is known for developing best practice guidelines, policies, and procedures that have had a tangible impact on government agencies, educational institutions, and private sector clients. Currently, she is spearheading a new initiative called the “Email Deleting Workshop” providing hands-on experience and guidance to empower state workers to manage their own records. State workers may also recognize her from the required Executive Branch training video: Electronic Records Management. Sarah has a BA in Ancient Languages from Asbury University (KY) and her MLIS and MBA from Kent State University (OH).

More
Cathrine Giles

Cathrine Giles

Manager, State Records Branch, Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

Cathrine Giles is the State Records Branch Manager at the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives and assists state agencies with records management. She helped restart the Kentucky State Historical Records Advisory Board as the coordinator in 2021 and hopes to increase the SHRAB’s efforts toward historical records program awareness and support. Additionally, she serves on the Council of State Archivists Board of Directors, is a member of the Kentucky Heritage Emergency Response Network steering committee, and is on the Kentucky Council on Archives Board. Cathrine holds a BA in English Writing from the Western Kentucky University and in 2023 obtained her MSLS from the University of Kentucky.

More
Amy Glasscock

Amy Glasscock

Program Director, Innovation & Emerging Issues, National Association of State Chief Information Officers

Amy Glasscock is the program director for innovation and emerging issues at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) where she has worked for over ten years. In her role, she focuses on innovative policies, emerging technologies (including AI) and privacy and data protection within state governments. Previously she worked in government relations at the American Public Power Association and spent four years on Capitol Hill, gaining valuable insights into public policy and the legislative process. Amy holds a BA from Berea College and an MA from the University of Kentucky. She is also the co-host and producer of the NASCIO Voices podcast, and a proud returned Peace Corps Volunteer, having served mid-career in Indonesia from 2012-2014. Amy lives in Lexington, KY with her husband and daughter.

More
Jim Hannah

Jim Hannah

Communications Director, Kentucky Court of Justice

Jim Hannah is an award-winning writer, recognized for his work in both communications and journalism. He joined the Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts in March 2023 as Director of the Office of Communications. Prior to this role, Jim served as the spokesman for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's District 5 in Louisville, where he managed media relations and public communications for the region’s transportation needs. From 2014 to 2021, Jim was a nonpartisan public information specialist for the Legislative Research Commission, crafting communications for the Kentucky General Assembly. Earlier in his career, he spent 14 years as a reporter covering Kentucky’s criminal justice system for The Cincinnati Enquirer. Jim also worked for one year as a copy editor for Shanghai Daily in China. He has appeared on several true-crime television programs, including Dateline, Snapped, Forensic Files, and Deadly Affairs, to discuss his reporting on high-profile crimes in Northern Kentucky. He resides in Frankfort, Ky., where he enjoys kayaking and sampling bourbon in his free time.

More
Aaron Miller

Aaron Miller

IT Director, Hardin County

Aaron Miller brings over 30 years of experience, with a passion for using technology to solve real-world problems in both the private and public sectors. His journey began in the U.S. Navy, where he honed his skills in leadership, discipline, and technical operations—experiences that laid the foundation for a successful career in information technology.
After his military service, Aaron earned a degree in computer science from Louisville Tech and jumped headfirst into the world of IT. Since then, he’s led major digital transformations, built strong, effective teams, and overseen the rollout of secure and scalable infrastructures that keep organizations running smoothly.
What sets Aaron apart is his ability to think strategically while staying hands-on with the tech itself. He’s known for his calm, solution-oriented approach—whether he's tackling cybersecurity challenges, driving cloud migration, or making sure systems work smarter, not harder. At his core, Aaron is committed to aligning technology with real business needs, always with an eye toward creating lasting impact and efficiency.

More
Steven Moody

Steven Moody

Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Government

Steven Moody is originally from Charleston, SC and now lives in Louisville, KY. He moved to Kentucky from North Carolina in 2020 after serving 8 years on active duty in the US Army. Steven joined Louisville Metro in 2025 as a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst and to help form the Kentucky Cyber Threat Intelligence Cooperative. Prior to joining Louisville Metro, he spent time as a contracted Open Source Intelligence Analyst for the Department of Defense.

More
Bart Peluso III

Bart Peluso III LinkedIn

Vice President, KnowledgeLake

Bart Peluso III is the Vice President of Marketing for KnowledgeLake, a leading Enterprise Automation company. He manages marketing strategy, partner marketing and demand generation. Prior to KnowledgeLake, Bart led Product Marketing for Automation technologies at Microsoft, Dell, and the revolutionary start-up Blue Prism. Bart enjoys helping College students with their career planning along with boating and music in Knoxville, Tennessee.

More
Elwyn Rainer II

Elwyn Rainer II

Information Security Manager, Division of Application Development and Support, Office of Application Technology Services (OATS) Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Elwyn Rainer II is a dynamic speaker, certified coach, published author, and respected leader with over 15 years of experience in the government and private sectors. He is passionate about helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential by equipping professionals with practical strategies for career development, leadership growth, and team empowerment. Known for his engaging style and real-world insights, Elwyn collaborates with corporate leaders to cultivate high-performing teams and foster thriving workplace cultures. His mission is simple yet powerful: to help people lead with purpose, grow with intention, and succeed with impact.

More
Dena Ratliff Warren

Dena Ratliff Warren

KDLA Executive Staff Advisor, Grant Coordinator, The Department for Libraries and Archives

Dena Ratliff Warren serves as the Executive Staff Advisor for the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives, bringing over 15 years of leadership experience in school, local, and state library environments. Prior to her current role, she was the Director of the Trimble County Public Library, where she led innovative community-focused initiatives. Dena is currently leading Lead From Where You Are, a statewide leadership development program for public library staff in Kentucky, funded by the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Grant through the Institute for Museum and Library Services. She is passionate about empowering library professionals and strengthening library services across the Commonwealth.

More

Brian Wixom

Regional Administrator, Local Records Branch, Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

Brian Wixom is the North Central Regional Administrator at the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives Local Records Branch. He assists local agencies with records management. His duties include conducting records management trainings across 22 counties. He has previous experience in micrographics scanning and quality assurance and in instructing freshman composition at local community colleges. Brian holds a BA and a MA in English from the University of Louisville.

More
Maria Thompson

Maria Thompson

Executive Government – Cyber, Amazon Web Services

Maria S. Thompson is the State and Local Government Cybersecurity Lead for Amazon Web Services (AWS). In this role, she brings over 20 years of experience in information technology, strategic planning, computer network defense and risk management. Prior to her role with AWS, Maria served as North Carolina’s first State Chief Risk and Security Officer. There, she was instrumental in establishing the Whole of State Approach to Cyber. This included the development and implementation of the state’s first Cyber Disruption Plan, and the Joint Cyber Task Force (JCTF). Maria also served 20 years in the United States Marine Corps and retired as the cybersecurity chief/information assurance chief for the Marine Corps. Other security roles held includes certification and accreditation (C&A) lead for the Multi-National Forces – Iraq and senior security engineer in a joint military organization and Security Operations Center lead for a federal agency.

More

Agenda

Tuesday, June 10

8:00 am Eastern

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

9:00 am Eastern

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Chris Seidt, Chief Information Officer, City of Louisville

9:10 am Eastern

Keynote - The Art of Espionage: Understanding the Fundamentals of Spycraft

Espionage isn't just a plot in thrillers; it's a real and present danger. Could you be enticed into the world of spying? Think again. Our speaker, a former Case Officer (spy), will unveil her methods for identifying and recruiting individuals across various industries—revealing tactics from casual conversations at airport lounges to sophisticated surveillance operations. This insightful presentation dives deep into the clandestine world of espionage and its implications for your organization. Learn about the espionage toolkit, which blends traditional human intelligence methods with cutting-edge cyber security tactics. This talk will illuminate how today's adversaries, including hackers, nation-states, and organized crime rings, employ espionage techniques reminiscent of spies. Equip yourself with the knowledge to detect and defend against espionage, whether facing a human operative or a cyber threat.

Shawnee Delaney, CEO, Vaillance Group and Former Spy

10:10 am Eastern

Best of Kentucky IT Awards

10:30 am Eastern

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

11:00 am Eastern

Concurrent Sessions

Lessons from the Dark Side: Cyber Failures & Fixes

Mistakes happen. Attacks slip through. What matters is how you respond. Join this open forum where public sector leaders share real-world cyber incidents—what went wrong, how they recovered, and the safeguards they've put in place since. From phishing scams to near-miss disasters, this session dives into lessons learned, remediation strategies, and what should have been in place beforehand. There is no sugarcoating—just honest stories, hard-earned insights, and practical takeaways to strengthen your cybersecurity posture.

Moderator: Jessica Byerly, National Conference Director, Government Technology

David Carter, Chief Information Security Officer, Commonwealth of Kentucky

Neal Gallucci, Senior Solutions Consultant, Socure

Aaron Miller, IT Director, Hardin County

Steven Moody, Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Government

Donald Singleton II, Info Security Analyst, Louisville Metro Government

Practical AI for the Public Sector

Exploring AI in the public sector can be challenging, especially when balancing policies and governance. This session features panelists role-playing how to handle an AI request—evaluating the feasibility, costs, and ROI with stakeholders. We’ll share real-world examples of how AI can boost efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver measurable results. You will also learn how strategic planning and creativity can drive AI innovation while ensuring financial responsibility and policy compliance.

Moderator: Amy Glasscock, Program Director, Innovation & Emerging Issues, National Association of State Chief Information Officers

Cody Bumgardner, Director, Center For Applied Artificial Intelligence, University of Kentucky

Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe, Co-Chair of the AI Task Force

Doug Gorman, Warren County Judge/Executive

Low-Code, No-Code, and You

Are low-code and no-code the future of application development? Most say yes. Without a doubt, low-code and no-code tools are playing increasingly important roles in speeding up the delivery of applications. But the landscape is complex. Each approach has pros and cons, depending on the scope of the project. This session examines which approaches best suit your needs.

Moderator: Rachael Howard, GIS Administrator, Office of Information Technology, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Jim Fisher, System Architect, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Tracy Meiners, Information Systems Analyst, Louisville-Jefferson County Metro

Dana Spratt, Executive Administrator, Louisville-Jefferson County Metro

Future-Ready Leadership: Building Soft Skills for the New Era

AI is 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 an AI-driven workplace. Explore redefining roles, fostering continuous learning, and confidently leading in a rapidly evolving landscape. HR leaders, CIOs, and emerging leaders will leave with actionable insights to build resilient, adaptable teams ready for the future.

Moderator: Elwyn Rainer II, Information Security Manager, Division of Application Development and Support, Office of Application Technology Services (OATS) Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Adam Elias, Assistant Provost for Online and Innovative Learning, Bellarmine University

Dena Ratliff Warren, KDLA Executive Staff Advisor, Grant Coordinator, The Department for Libraries and Archives

Bart Peluso III, Vice President, KnowledgeLake

12:00 pm Eastern

Lunch

1:00 pm Eastern

Kentucky’s Leadership Challenge – A Public Sector Trivia Showdown

Think fast. Collaborate under pressure. Test your knowledge of governance, policy, and emerging tech in this high-energy, team-based trivia showdown. More than a competition—this is a chance to network, share insights, and strengthen connections across Kentucky’s public sector. Whether you want to build new relationships or sharpen your expertise, this interactive session delivers. Are you ready to lead your team to victory?

Presenter: Jessica Byerly, National Conference Director, Government Technology

1:30 pm Eastern

Short Break

Please proceed to the concurrent sessions.

1:45 pm Eastern

Concurrent Sessions

AI in Kentucky: Policy, Governance & Public Trust

AI is transforming government, but trust is key. Without strong governance and ethical safeguards, public confidence erodes. This session explores Kentucky's path to responsible AI adoption—focusing on transparency, accountability, and moral decision-making. Learn best practices for AI policy, regulatory considerations, and data governance to ensure AI serves the public good. Join experts as they discuss building trust, implementing guardrails, and navigating the evolving AI landscape in government.

Moderator: Adam Elias, Assistant Provost for Online and Innovative Learning, Bellarmine University

Cody Bumgardner, Director, Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence, University of Kentucky

Mackenzie Hanes, Executive Director of Tech Association of the Bluegrass

Maria Thompson, Executive Government – Cyber, Amazon Web Services

Digital Conversations: Managing Electronic Communications in Government

From emails and text messages to Zoom chats and team discussions, electronic communication is the backbone of government operations—but are you managing it effectively? Learn best record-keeping, security, and governance practices to ensure your organization meets public records laws and mitigates risks. We will discuss policy considerations, legal requirements, and strategies for keeping digital conversations secure, compliant, and well-managed in today's fast-paced environment.

Moderator: Brian Wixom, Regional Administrator, Local Records Branch, Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

Derek A. Clark, Manager, Electronic Records Branch, KY Department for Libraries and Archives

Sarah Garrett, Electronic Records Analyst, KY Department for Libraries and Archives

Cathrine Giles, Manager, State Records Branch, Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

The Evolution of Constituent Engagement

Citizen engagement is evolving rapidly with advancements in technology and communication strategies. Technologies such as telephony innovations, chatbots, and digital portals can facilitate more efficient, accessible, and ongoing communication with constituents. This session will cover current and future trends for improving constituent engagement, ensuring that governments can meet the needs of their communities in an ever-changing landscape.

Moderator: Dan Lohrmann, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

Amy Glasscock, Program Director, Innovation & Emerging Issues, National Association of State Chief Information Officers

Jim Hannah, Communications Director, Kentucky Court of Justice

Phillip Ross, Cyber Intelligence Analyst, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security

2:45 pm Eastern

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

3:05 pm Eastern

Bits and Bytes: Today's Talent, Tomorrow's Opportunity for Growth

Positioning staff (or yourself!) for growth and development within the public sector is key to building a resilient and dynamic workforce. Upskilling and 'stretch assignments' to build confidence are only the beginning when creating an environment that prioritizes growth and helps individuals expand their comfort zone. Offering mentorship and creating a clear pathway for career progression also ensures sustained engagement and long-term success. This session will focus on tools to explore new roles, develop skills, and thrive in an evolving workforce landscape.

Presenter: Elwyn Rainer II, Information Security Manager, Division of Application Development and Support, Office of Application Technology Services (OATS) Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

3:30 pm Eastern

General Session – The New Data Paradigm: Revamping the Government Data Infrastructure for the Future

The future of government hinges on its ability to harness, manage, and protect data effectively. In this session, presented by the Center for Digital Government, we’ll explore shifting toward a modernized data infrastructure that prioritizes interoperability, scalability, and security. From breaking down data silos to leveraging AI and cloud-based solutions, this presentation will highlight key strategies for future-proofing government data ecosystems.

Dan Lohrmann, Senior Fellow, Center for Digital Government

4:15 pm Eastern

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.

4:45 pm Eastern

End of Conference

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

Hyatt Regency Louisville

320 W. Jefferson Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-581-1234

Get Directions To
Hyatt Regency Louisville

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Darryl Anderson
IT Director
Information Technology
City of Hopkinsville

Dan Atkins
Director, Division of Platform Services
Commonwealth Office of Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Jim Barnhart
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Commonwealth Office of Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Derek Clark
Manager, Electronic Records Branch
Department for Libraries and Archives
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Wendy Dixie
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
Kentucky State University

Eric Hynniman
Information Security Analyst
Information Technology
Louisville Metro Government

Kenneth Jones
Deputy Executive Director, OTS
Education Labor Cabinet
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Chris Lindsey
Executive Director
Education Labor Cabinet
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Russell Mays
IT Director
Lincoln Trail Area Development

James Meece
Chief Information Security Officer
Louisville Metro Government

Aaron Miller
IT Director
Hardin County

Dr. Marty Park
Chief Digital Officer
Office of Educational Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Thangappan Patturajah
Chief Technology Officer - OATS
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Jessica Ramsey
Director
Technology Services
Kenton County

Liz Rodgers
Chief Information Officer
Lexington Fayette Urban County Government

Chris Seidt
Director
Information Technology
Louisville Metro Government

Paul Stewart
Director of Technical Services
Lexington Fayette Urban County Government

Heather Stout
Executive Director of IT
Transportation Cabinet
Commonwealth of Kentucky

David Summerfield
Executive Director
Clerk's Office
Jefferson County

Stephanie Williams
Contracting Officer
Commonwealth Office of Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Rick Woodruff
Executive Director - Office of Infrastructure Services
Commonwealth Office of Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Jerry Wright
Director, Division of Network Services
Commonwealth Office of Technology
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Industry Representatives

Kelly Peach
Senior Account Executive
AWS

Bart Peluso
Vice President of Marketing
KnowledgeLake

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: June 10, 2025

Open to Public Sector only.

Registration Fee per person: $20

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:

Tabbie Pegoda
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1411
E-mail: tpegoda@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

Hyatt Regency Louisville

320 W. Jefferson Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-581-1234

Show More

Room Block

There is no room block set up for this event. To book a room at the venue, click here: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/sdfrl-hyatt-regency-louisville

Map and Directions

https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/sdfrl-hyatt-regency-louisville/parking-and-transportation

Event Parking

Self-parking: $30/night

Valet parking: $40/night

Oversized vehicles: $45/night

Parking fees subject to change without notice.