Colleges and universities in Maryland, like their counterparts nationwide, are undergoing a period of significant transformation. As these institutions adapt to evolving student needs, changing demographics, and shifting funding models, technology plays an increasingly pivotal role.
IT leaders are in a unique position to drive innovation, enhance data-informed decision-making, and improve both institutional and student outcomes.
The 2025 Higher Education IT Leadership Summit provides a vital opportunity for senior technology and institutional leaders to come together for a day of strategic exchange and collaboration.
The Summit agenda, shaped by insights from the Advisory Board, blends strategic vision with practical application.
Focused on the most pressing concerns for today’s higher education CIOs, it covers a wide range of leadership and operational topics that are crucial to the future of IT in higher education.
Key Themes at the Summit
Building Digital Trust and Governance
A major focus of this year’s summit is the importance of building and maintaining digital trust. As more data and technology play a role in institutional operations, governance and data security become even more critical. Conversations will explore how to establish and protect trust while ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Modernizing Systems and IT Infrastructure
Many universities continue to operate on legacy systems that are increasingly out of step with modern digital needs. The Summit will explore how to modernize these systems and infrastructure while ensuring affordability and sustainability. Attendees will look at ways to update policies, improve agility, and ensure these systems support the evolving needs of the institution.
Artificial Intelligence and Data Strategy
Aligning AI and data strategies with institutional priorities is essential. Sessions will focus on how to effectively implement AI-driven solutions that enhance teaching, learning, and campus operations. The summit will also address the challenges and opportunities surrounding the growing role of data in decision-making processes.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
As cyber threats continue to grow in scale and sophistication, higher education institutions must stay ahead of the curve in securing their digital landscapes. The Summit will provide crucial insights into navigating cybersecurity risks and building robust defense systems against data breaches and other online threats.
Strengthening IT Talent Pipelines
The demand for skilled IT professionals in higher education is growing. This year’s Summit will also touch upon strategies to develop and retain top IT talent, ensuring universities have the staff they need to meet future challenges and goals.
Summit Objectives
The 2025 Summit is designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the higher education IT community. Some of the key objectives include:
- Collaboration: Bringing together IT leaders to exchange strategies and best practices in a peer-driven environment.
- Showcasing Innovation: Offering real-world examples of how technology is transforming teaching, learning, and operations within institutions.
- Leadership Development: Providing actionable insights to help IT leaders grow both their leadership skills and their institutional impact.
- Addressing Key Challenges: Delving into important topics such as system modernization, AI, cybersecurity, and budget management.
- Future Trends: Exploring how emerging trends will impact the IT strategy and workforce of the future.
Why Attend the 2025 IT Leadership Summit?
Designed for You
This event is free for higher education professionals, making it accessible to those who want to engage without worrying about the cost. It is a smaller, more focused gathering of no more than 60 invited attendees, ensuring meaningful engagement.
Local & Convenient
Held within Maryland, the Summit provides an affordable and convenient option for local professionals to attend without the burden of expensive travel and time away from their institution.
Expert Insights and Networking
Attendees will hear directly from thought leaders and experienced practitioners in the field, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and innovations driving change in higher education.
The event is designed for high-value networking, offering opportunities to form lasting connections with peers and potential collaborators.
The 2025 Higher Education IT Leadership Summit offers a unique opportunity to explore key IT challenges and innovations, strengthen professional connections, and gain insights that will help shape the future of higher education.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or emerging IT talent, this Summit is an event you won’t want to miss.
