Behind the Emerging Technologies Track with Melanie Douglas: Shaping an Unmissable CommEX25

Douglas: As part of the program planning committee, my role is to help shape a track that highlights the most exciting, forward-thinking innovations in the R&E community. One of the committee’s greatest strengths is our diverse perspectives, representing a wide range of institutions, from large research universities to smaller colleges and specialized research organizations. This variety helps us cater to a broad audience, ensuring that the sessions resonate with attendees from different backgrounds, institutional roles, and levels of technological adoption.

Community expertise also plays a critical role in this process. Whether through submitted proposals, discussions, or past feedback, their insights help us craft a truly impactful program. My focus has been on identifying sessions that bridge cutting-edge technology with practical implementation, ensuring attendees walk away with both inspiration and actionable strategies.

Douglas: AI continues to drive innovation, and this year’s sessions focus on its impact on research, student support, and institutional decision-making. Discussions will address ethical considerations, scalability, and real-world applications, ensuring institutions can harness AI responsibly and effectively.

However, a lot has changed since these sessions were developed, both in policy and national discourse. Shifts in federal funding, data privacy regulations, and AI governance are influencing how institutions approach emerging technologies. The conversations at CommEX25 will provide a critical space to navigate these evolving challenges and opportunities.

These sessions go beyond insights. They offer real experience and equip institutions with strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Douglas: We received such thoughtful and forward-thinking proposals that it’s hard to pick just one standout session! Each session in the Emerging Technologies Track offers unique insights to help attendees navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape in higher education.

A few sessions I’m especially excited about include:
– Emerging Technologies – A New Focus for Cal Poly Pomona on Wednesday, April 30
– Triton GPT: UC San Diego’s AI-Powered Support Tool on Wednesday, April 30
– Turning AI Tools into a Common Good and Shared Utility for All Campus Constituents on Thursday, May 1 

These sessions go beyond theory, focusing on real-world applications and the strategic decisions institutions need to make today to stay ahead of the curve. I can’t wait to see the discussions they spark!

Douglas: The networking events at CommEX are where some of the most meaningful collaborations take shape. I’m looking forward to the Welcome Reception on Tuesday, April 29, which provides an engaging environment to reconnect with colleagues and build relationships with partners across higher education. It’s always a great space to exchange ideas and discuss shared challenges in an informal setting.

I’m also looking forward to the Fun Run on Wednesday, April 30 — it’s such a fantastic way to kickstart the day with fellow attendees and explore a new city. There’s something special about bonding over movement and conversation before diving into a full day of sessions! 

Some of the best insights and partnerships emerge from casual conversations during the time carved out for social gatherings at CommEX. I’ve made incredible connections through Internet2 events, and many of those relationships have turned into ongoing collaborations with regular check-ins. The power of community is what makes these events truly special!

Douglas: I hope attendees walk away feeling energized and equipped with new insights they can immediately apply at their institutions. CommEX is not just about learning; it’s about connecting with a community that shares a common mission to advance research and education through technology. 

Now more than ever, higher education needs each other and a strong community with the shared challenges we are facing. 

For first-time attendees, my advice is to be intentional about networking, introduce yourself, ask questions, and engage in discussions. The connections you make here will be just as valuable as the sessions you attend.