For 25 years, NYSCIO has been more than a conference.
It has been a community of technology leaders willing to share openly, learn from one another and help each other navigate what comes next.
That spirit was on full display June 16–17 in Geneva, N.Y., as senior technology leaders from across higher education, healthcare, research, cultural organizations and nonprofits gathered to celebrate NYSCIO's 25th anniversary.
This year's theme, Innovation and Leadership Through Complexity, focused not only on the technologies transforming our organizations, but also on the relationships, trust and leadership required to move meaningful work forward.
Rather than beginning with a traditional keynote, NYSCIO opened with a candid Lakeside Chat featuring technology leaders from member organizations reflecting on the moments that shaped them most. The moments when the path forward wasn't obvious. The moments when influence mattered more than authority. The moments when relationships, trust and perseverance helped move something important forward.
Those themes carried throughout the conference.
Technology-focused presentations examined practical approaches to generative AI, cybersecurity and emerging technologies. Among the most talked-about sessions was Guardrails, Not Gates: Syracuse University's Approach to Generative AI, presented by Eric Sedore and Dan Cohen of Syracuse University. Many participants later shared that the session offered practical guidance they planned to bring back to their organizations as they continue developing their own AI strategies.
Attendees also heard updates on several initiatives designed to help organizations navigate emerging opportunities and challenges. Anna Walsh, chief membership officer at Nysernet, shared how Nysernet's work with UAMS e-Link and Rural Health Care is helping eligible organizations expand access to critical services and funding opportunities. Emilyann Fogarty, chief information security officer at Nysernet, provided an update on the Regional Security Operations Center (RSOC), an initiative focused on strengthening cybersecurity through shared expertise and collective defense. Bill Owens, chief network architect at Nysernet, offered a look at the rapidly evolving world of quantum technologies and what institutions should be paying attention to today.
Leadership and collaboration remained an important part of the program as attendees explored how trust, communication and influence help organizations move ideas forward. Interactive discussions throughout the day encouraged participants to share experiences, learn from one another and connect leadership concepts to the real-world challenges facing their organizations.
If there was one theme participants returned to again and again, it was the value of peer connection.
Attendees spoke about the importance of networking, informal conversations, reconnecting with colleagues and learning from others facing similar challenges. Many described those conversations as the most valuable part of their NYSCIO experience.
Reflecting on the conference's 25th anniversary, Nysernet President and CEO Jeanne Casares emphasized the role community has played in NYSCIO's enduring success.
"For 25 years, NYSCIO has created space for technology leaders to learn from one another, challenge one another and support one another. This year reminded us that while technology continues to evolve, progress still happens through relationships. The willingness of this community to share experiences, offer support and help our colleagues move forward is what makes NYSCIO so special."
As attendees returned home, they carried with them new ideas, practical strategies and fresh perspectives. But perhaps more importantly, they left with new connections and renewed relationships.
Because the real work begins when we return to our organizations.
And as this community demonstrated throughout NYSCIO 2026, none of us has to do that work alone.
Planning for NYSCIO 2027 is already underway.
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