CincyAIweek25: Full Schedule

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

12:45pm EDT

The Creative Edge: AI, EI, and Alchemy for Brand and Marketing Mastery

Tuesday June 10, 2025 12:45pm - 1:15pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Speakers

Deanna Leonard

Chief Communications Officer/US Director/AI Brand Strategist/Founder, SHE IS AI, The AI Chix

As a LinkedIn Top 100 AI Creative, I bring a unique blend of high-energy storytelling and 20+ years of leadership experience to every stage and boardroom. I empower businesses and executive women to harness AI strategically—transforming toplines, bottom lines, and everything in... Read More →

Mary Gervais

Founder- ElVibe, Mary Helen Gervais

Mary Helen Gervais is a #1 International Best-Selling Author, Global Leader in Frequency, and Visionary Entrepreneur dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their inner wisdom and step into their fullest potential. As the creator of HeartBlaze: Igniting the Flame of Unconditional... Read More →

Katy Keene

Founder and Principal Consultant, Keene Lane Co.

Katy Keene is a marketing operations strategist, Canva Agency Partner, HubSpot Partner and trusted AI Educator who helps businesses streamline marketing systems, integrate AI and automation with intention, and maintain brand consistency across teams. As the founder of Keene Lane Co... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 12:45pm - 1:15pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

12:45pm EDT

Panel: The AI First Leader, Leading from the Front

Tuesday June 10, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT

Alcove - The Loft Room

Being an effective leader in the age of AI requires more than just awareness—it demands action, adaptability, and a willingness to lead from the front. In this dynamic panel, executive and technical leaders will share how they’re embracing AI to improve decision-making, optimize operations, and inspire their teams.

The conversation will explore the real challenges of AI adoption—resistance, education, ethical questions—and how bold, proactive leadership can make the difference between stalled initiatives and meaningful transformation. Expect insights on leadership mindsets, culture change, cross-functional collaboration, and what it really means to build an AI-first organization

Speakers

Catherine O'Shea

COO, Narratize

Steve Brunker

CEO, Brain-CA Technologies

Steve Brunker serves as CEO at Brain-CA Technologies, a firm bringing to market a fundamentally different computer architecture built specifically for AI applications. He has over 30 years of IT leadership experience, having served as CIO at Hillman Solutions and LSI Industries. His... Read More →

Brian Adams

CEO, Seven Hills Technology

Brian Adams is the CEO of Seven Hills Technology, where he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership to the table. With roots as a software developer and a deep love for crafting great digital products, Brian thrives at the intersection of technology and business... Read More →

Beverly Wright

Beverly Wright, PhD, CAP-X, VP – Data Science & AI Wavicle Data Solutions, Wavicle Data Solutions / University of Georgia

Beverly Wright, PhD, CAP serves as Vice President of Data Science & AI at Wavicle DataSolutions, and Director for Data Science & AI at University of Georgia’s Executive Education.With a career spanning over 30 years across utilities, financial services, telecommunications,healthcare... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT
Alcove - The Loft Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:00pm EDT

Panel on AI for Education: Tools for Students, Teachers, and Life Learners

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Alcove- The Gathering Room

AI is transforming education—not just in the classroom, but across every stage of the learning journey. This panel brings together innovators from K–12, higher education, and workforce development to explore how AI is being used to enhance how we teach, learn, assess, and grow.

Panelists will share how students and teachers are using AI tools to improve learning outcomes, the role of AI in personalized education, and how institutions are rethinking curricula, credentials, and lifelong learning strategies. Whether you're an educator, edtech builder, or skills-first employer, this session offers a window into the future of learning powered by AI.

Speakers

Arline Pique

Director, HCESC

Paul Isakson

Program Leader for K-12+ AI Education Team within Cincinnati AI Catalyst, Cincinnati AI Catalyst

Program Leader of Cincinnati AI Catalyst K-12+ Education team. Retired Director of Innovation P&G. Part owner of MPH Microbrewery in Montgomery.

Sid Thatham

University of Cincinnati

Shanah Legree

Cyber Colors Coloring Books/ CPS/ Safe Cyber Coders LLC

Shanah LeGree: Empowering the Future of Tech Through AI and CreativityShanah LeGree is a dynamic educator, author, and innovator who has spent over a decade inspiring students through the power of computer science and artificial intelligence. Originally from Cincinnati, she has now... Read More →

Addrienne VanOver

Instructional Designer | Faculty, Miami University

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Alcove- The Gathering Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:00pm EDT

Panel: Prioritizing Responsible AI in Greater Cincinnati

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

As AI adoption accelerates, the need for responsible, transparent, and ethical implementation becomes urgent—especially at the local and regional level. This panel gathers leaders from academia, industry, and innovation to explore how Greater Cincinnati can set the tone for responsible AI development and deployment.

Panelists will discuss the practical steps organizations are taking to build trustworthy AI, address bias, ensure security, and engage community stakeholders. From education and governance to technology choices and leadership mindsets, this session will offer tangible strategies for embedding responsibility into every stage of AI innovation.

Speakers

Jon Salisbury

CEO, Nexigen

Dr Kelly Cohen

Director, AI Bio Lab, Digital Futures, University of Cincinnati

The Brian H. Rowe Endowed Chair in Aerospace Engineering. Director of AI Bio Labs, Digital Futures, University of Cincinnati and President, North American Fuzzy Information Processing Society (NAFIPS). Also serves as Chief Scientific Advisor, brandrank.ai, and Chairman of the Board... Read More →

John Cavanaugh

Plunk Foundation, Plunk Foundation

John Cavanaugh is the Founder & Executive Director of the Plunk Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit that protects 30M people from their abusers online.He is the project manager for the Risk and Safety Team at the Cincinnati AI Catalyst Under Dr. Kelly Cohen, sits on the board of the Eagle... Read More →

Nikki Ferrell

Miami University

Associate Director of Online Enrollment Marketing & Communications, Miami UniversityFounder, UCM AI Steering CommitteeNikki Ferrell is a communications leader and AI strategist who helps marketing teams embrace emerging technologies with clarity and integrity. As Associate Director... Read More →

Sponsors

Nexigen

Nexigen is one of the Cincinnati area's largest IT service and cybersecurity firms specializing in providing enterprise IT resources for small and medium businesses. No other IT services firm in the Cincinnati area can touch our experience, customer service, or ability to deliver... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

Panel

1:30pm EDT

Panel: From Pilots to Platform: Scaling AI Across the Organization

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Alcove - The Loft Room

Running a successful AI pilot is a good start—but scaling it across the enterprise is where the real work begins. This panel brings together senior leaders and AI implementers to discuss how they’re moving from early wins to fully integrated AI platforms and practices.

Topics will include change management, stakeholder alignment, data infrastructure, platform selection, internal education, and how to prioritize use cases that deliver ROI. Whether you're just starting or looking to mature your AI program, this session is packed with hard-won lessons from teams that have been in the trenches.

Speakers

Chris McGraw

National Director, Lorien

With nearly 20 years of experience in talent management and talent acquisition, I lead Lorien's Permanent Placement practice by specializing in AI, Data, Cloud Infrastructure, and IT Security. Our dedicated recruiting practice serves mature startups to mid-sized organizations across... Read More →

Nick Ernest

Chief Architect, Thales

Kristy Wedel

Learning Experience Manager, AlignAI

Kristy Wedel, Learning Experience Manager at AlignAI, has over 15 years of experience in developing and democratizing analytics solutions that drive transparency and efficiency across various industries including healthcare, banking and government. At the forefront of AI adoption... Read More →

Evan Moore

CTO / President, Open Advantage

Evan is the co-founder of Open Advantage, focusing on specialized areas of technology, including AI, data, and security. Evan believes the tech industry is hindered by proprietary software and advocates for an open-source approach that prioritizes software freedom and protects the... Read More →

Nick Fontova

Director of AI Partnerships & Events, Landmark Ventures

Nick Fontova is an early AI adopter and the Director of AI Partnerships & Events at Landmark Ventures in New York. He specializes in creating deal flow between Fortune 500 enterprises and savvy AI startups looking to connect and scale.Nick recently hosted the most talked-about event... Read More →

Sponsors

Open Advantage

Open Advantage is a Technology Solutions Provider (TSP) that empowers businesses with the latest AI, Cyber Security, and specialized IT solutions. We're committed to an Open Source approach, believing that transparency and collaboration are key to unlocking true potential. By leveraging... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Alcove - The Loft Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:45pm EDT

Panel on AI for Gov: Smart Cities, Smarter Governance: AI for Public Good

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT

Alcove- The Gathering Room

AI has the power to improve lives, increase access, and enhance how cities serve their residents—if designed and deployed with public good in mind. This panel brings together civic leaders and innovators to explore how AI is being used in local government, public infrastructure, and smart city initiatives to create more inclusive, efficient, and transparent systems.

Panelists will discuss real-world use cases and lessons from deploying AI in transportation, sustainability, emergency services, housing, and digital services—along with the governance models, partnerships, and guardrails needed to do it responsibly.

Speakers

Hanna Khoury

IT Infrastructure and Cyber Security, City of Cincinnati

David Shuey

Director of Information Systems and Analytics, OKI Regional Council of Governments

David leads OKI's internationally recognized and award-winning GIS Department, overseeing the strategic implementation and operation of GIS technologies across the Council's eight-county region. Under his leadership, the team maintains comprehensive regional datasets and develops... Read More →

Pavan Parikh

Clerk of Courts, Hamilton County

Since becoming the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts in 2021, I have worked to improve transparency, increase accessibility, and foster a culture of innovation in my office and across county government.My initiatives have focused on closing gaps in legal services by expanding the work... Read More →

Rob Richardson

Founder/CEO of Disruption Now and Chief Curator of MidwestCon, Disruption Now Media

Richardson founded Disruption Now, a tech and media company specializing in AI, data blockchain development, and event production/curation. Disruption Now's mission is to make emerging technology accessible to all, and its events attract diverse participants, including students, executives... Read More →

Phil Russell

Govt Team Lead / VP Technical Solutions and Market Innovation, Cincinnati AI Catalyst / ID Privacy AI

Creative and strategic technology leader with deep expertise in AI, digital transformation, and business innovation. Known for bridging the gap between technical complexity and executive strategy, with domain experience across AI, e-commerce, manufacturing, and professional services... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT
Alcove- The Gathering Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:45pm EDT

Responsible AI Panel: Enterprise AI Governance and Readiness

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT

Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

The path to responsible, scalable AI starts with strong governance—and for enterprise organizations, that means preparing both people and systems for what’s next. This panel explores how leading organizations are approaching AI readiness, risk mitigation, and governance strategy in a fast-moving regulatory and technological landscape.

From legal frameworks and internal policies to cross-functional alignment and vendor management, panelists will share what’s working, what’s challenging, and what every enterprise needs to be doing now to ensure AI is safe, effective, and aligned with business goals.

Speakers

Amy Lindenbusch

Sogeti

Jesse Jenike-Godshalk

Partner, Thompson Hine LLP

I help people resolve disputes involving all types of intellectual property (IP), including trademarks, patents, copyrights, trade secrets, and domain names. I also advise clients on issues involving IP and artificial intelligence (AI), and I am the President of the Cincinnati Intellectual... Read More →

Shannon Smith

Director of Business and Technical Operations, Tyrannosaurus Tech

I am the Director of Business and Technical Operations at Tyrannosaurus Tech, where I lead AI strategy for both internal operations and client offerings.As an entrepreneur and business strategist, I have 10+ years of experience leading technical teams and building SaaS products for... Read More →

Ford Knowlton

Nia Baucke

Sponsors

Thompson Hine

Thompson Hine LLP, a full-service business law firm with over 400 lawyers in 10 offices, was ranked number 1 in the category “Most innovative North American law firms: New working models” by The Financial Times and was 1 of 7 firms shortlisted for The American Lawyer’s inaugural... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT
Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

Panel, Responsible AI

2:15pm EDT

Panel: Building AI Use Cases in Greater Cincinnati

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

AI isn’t just about what’s possible—it’s about what’s working right now. In this panel, local leaders and innovators will share real-world examples of how they’re building and deploying AI use cases across industries in Greater Cincinnati—from healthcare to logistics, legal, finance, manufacturing, and beyond.

Panelists will discuss the challenges and wins of building practical AI solutions, including how to align teams, manage risk, secure data, and measure impact. This is a hands-on conversation for anyone looking to move from AI exploration to meaningful execution.

Speakers

Melissa Lacefield

Principal Cloud Solution Architect – Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, Microsoft

Mason C. Clutter

Partner; Former Chief Privacy Officer U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Frost Brown Todd

I serve as the Privacy Lead at Frost Brown Todd and previously served as Chief Privacy Officer to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. My practice is at the center of privacy, security, and technology. I work with clients to operationalize privacy and security to help them achieve... Read More →

Jerry Felix

Chief Architect, Brain-CA Technologies, Inc.

Started Brain-CA Technologies in November 2023. Secured funding and two patents. We address the huge issue of the tremendous costs of A.I., in time and power consumption.

Kristopher Jones

Assistant Professor, University of Cincinnati

Kris Jones is a passionate advocate for technology’s role in transforming businesses, empowering communities, and fostering growth. As a Professor of Information Systems, Kris bridges the gap between academia and industry, delivering insights that shape the next generation of technology... Read More →

Sponsors

Frost Brown Todd

With more than 600 attorneys strategically located in key markets across the United States, Frost Brown Todd is a national law firm offering a deep, talented roster of legal professionals who advise and protect clients in business transactions and litigation in many industries, including... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

3:00pm EDT

Panel: Funding AI Powered Startups

Tuesday June 10, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

AI innovation in Cincinnati is on the rise—but access to capital, strategic support, and ecosystem connectivity remain critical to sustaining momentum. This fireside chat brings together regional leaders in venture capital, early-stage innovation, and AI commercialization to discuss what it takes to fund and scale AI startups and initiatives in the Queen City.

Panelists will explore the current state of funding for AI ventures, how investors are evaluating AI opportunities, and what resources are available locally to help founders grow. Expect a candid conversation about where the gaps are—and what the community can do to close them.

Speakers

Max Dworin

Cintrifuse

Paul Powers

CEO, Physna

Brett Renzenbrink

Dinsmore

Tyler Mantel

General Partner, Roll Tack Ventures

Sponsors

Dinsmore

Dinsmore & Shohl LLP has a nationwide team of more than 750 attorneys who are trusted advisers to some of the world's leading businesses—including many in the Fortune 500—as well as institutions, associations, governments, professional firms and individuals. Clients count on Dinsmore... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

12:15pm EDT

Panel: AI-Ready Teams: Upskilling the Workforce for What’s Next

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT

Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

To unlock the full potential of AI, organizations must focus on more than just tools—they must prepare their people. This panel brings together leaders who are building AI-ready teams through intentional upskilling, training programs, and culture change.

Panelists will explore how to assess workforce readiness, develop targeted learning paths, create cross-functional AI literacy, and embed continuous learning across the organization. Whether you're leading a team, building a curriculum, or shaping strategy, this conversation will offer real-world insight into how to align talent with technology.

Speakers

Dawn Parks

Director, Northern Kentucky University

Sanjay Krishnegowda

Data Engineer, Alliance Berstein

I am a Data and AI Engineer with 15 years of experience in software development, data engineering and AI, with a focus on generative AI. For the past nine years, I have been working at Alliance Bernstein, building data-driven solutions and optimizing AI applications. My expertise... Read More →

Benjamin McCall

Strategic HR | Org Development | Talent Development, FOCUS Consulting

Benjamin McCall, FOCUS Consulting a Consultant, Speaker and practitioner in HR, Business Strategy and Organizational Performance serving organizations in the US and globally. FOCUS Consulting partners with Fortune 500's from Financial Services, Education, Healthcare, Startup, Military... Read More →

Glenn Platt

Professor & Co-Founder, Miami University & Lyceum AI

Sid Thatham

University of Cincinnati

Sponsors

Nexigen

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT
Union Hall- 4th Floor- Homeroom

Panel

12:15pm EDT

Panel: Exploring Enterprise AI Use Cases

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT

Somerhaus Events Venue

Speakers

Patrick Verdugo

Claro

Morgan Koth

Dev, Big Kitty Labs

Morgan Koth, Big Kitty Labs, is a visionary leader and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience driving startups and technology ventures from inception to growth. Currently serving as the Business Development and Relationship Manager at Big Kitty Labs, Morgan is instrumental... Read More →

Jarrod Anderson

Chief AI Officer, Syrv

As the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer at SYRV, Jarrod Anderson is a visionary and transformative leader in AI. With over three decades of experience, he has led AI teams at multiple Fortune 50 companies. Now dedicated to cutting-edge AI Agents and Agentic systems, Jarrod pushes... Read More →

Srinivas Chippagiri

Sr. Member of Technical Staff, Salesforce

Srinivas Chippagiri is a highly skilled software engineering leader with several of experience in cloud computing, distributed systems, virtualization, and AI/ML-applications across multiple industries, including telecommunications, healthcare, energy, and CRM software. He is currently... Read More →

Kayla Wolf

Merkle

Sponsors

Claro

Claro Enterprise Solutions, a subsidiary of América Móvil, is a global integrator with over 20 years of experience and your partner for managing secure-by-design cybersecurity and information technology solutions adapted to your business requirements. Choose Claro and scale your... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT
Somerhaus Events Venue 1415 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

12:15pm EDT

Panel: Smarter, Faster, Cheaper: Driving ROI with AI Marketing Tools

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT

Alcove - The Loft Room

AI is revolutionizing marketing—from content creation and customer insights to ad targeting and performance tracking. In this panel, marketing leaders and growth strategists will share how they’re using AI to reduce costs, improve speed, and generate measurable ROI across channels.

Panelists will explore what tools they’re using, how they’re integrating them into existing workflows, and how they’re measuring success. This session is packed with real use cases, tactical advice, and lessons learned for marketers who want to do more with less—and do it smarter.

Speakers

Matt McKeown

Founding Partner | Head of AI & Data Sciences, Orchard + Viridity Technologies

I’m the co-founder of Orchard Digital Marketing and Viridity Technologies, where I focus on building AI-powered ecosystems and digital solutions that help businesses grow smarter. My work sits at the intersection of strategy, technology, and creativity—helping organizations unlock... Read More →

Greg Goshorn

Founder, AI Strategist & Consultant, Mapping Your Marketing & AI

Greg Goshorn teaches business owners and teams how to integrate AI into daily operations to save time, boost productivity, and unlock smarter decision-making. Known for his real-world, jargon-free approach, Greg specializes in private AI training, secure GPT customization, and strategic... Read More →

Katy Keene

Founder and Principal Consultant, Keene Lane Co.

Tom Nolan

CEO, Forge Film Studios

Betty Rodriguez-Hakes

MarTech / AITech Consultant | Business Owner | Content Creator

I have a diverse background fueled by passion for both healthy lifestyle and innovative technologies. With over three decades of experience, I’ve concentrated on staying ahead of the curve in marketing, advertising and AI technologies. I pride myself on understanding, translating... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm EDT
Alcove - The Loft Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

12:45pm EDT

Panel: Exploring AI Readiness - From Data and Systems to People and Security

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

AI success isn’t just about algorithms—it’s about organizational readiness. In this cross-functional panel, leaders from technology, operations, workforce development, and security will explore what it really takes to prepare an enterprise for AI adoption at scale.

From modernizing data and IT systems to training teams, aligning stakeholders, and managing risk, this session will spotlight practical steps to move from experimentation to sustainable implementation. Expect honest takes on what’s working, where organizations get stuck, and how to build an AI-ready culture that lasts.

Speakers

Shannon Smith

Director of Business and Technical Operations, Tyrannosaurus Tech

Brian Henn

Vaco

Mo Abuali

Tech Mahindra

Sahil Sampat

Director, Data Science, 84.51

I'm the Director of Data Science at 84.51°, where I lead efforts to turn Kroger’s rich first-party data into AI-driven strategies for personalized marketing and real-time optimization. My focus is on connecting advanced data science with business needs to drive precise targeting... Read More →

Deshon Clark

Allventa

Sponsors

Allventa

At Allventa, we specialize in transforming enterprises through cutting-edge AI and automation solutions integrated with Microsoft 365. Founded by experienced industry professionals, our mission is to empower C-level executives in Fortune 5000 companies with innovative, high-impact... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

1:00pm EDT

Panel: AI for Sales and Revenue Generation

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Alcove - The Loft Room

AI is transforming how sales teams find leads, close deals, and generate revenue. From predictive insights and lead scoring to automated outreach and customer intelligence, this panel explores the tools and strategies that are helping organizations accelerate growth with AI.

Panelists will share how they’re applying AI across the sales funnel, what results they’ve seen, and how they’re empowering human teams—not replacing them—with smart tools. Expect a candid conversation on how to boost revenue with AI, avoid common pitfalls, and measure what matters most.

Speakers

Maddie Bell

CEO, Scheduler AI

Maddie Bell is the CEO and Co-Founder of SchedulerAI, where she’s spent the past three years building patented AI agents that have generated millions in GTM pipeline value. A former Procter & Gamble brand leader, Maddie brings strategic rigor from managing billion-dollar brands... Read More →

Jennifer Panepinto

Owner and Senior Marketing Consultant, Painted Bread Marketing

Rachel Jones

Sales & Business Strategy Consultant, The Bold B

I help growing businesses stop flying blind and start scaling smart—with AI tools that work in the trenches. As a sales and business strategy consultant, I partner with teams that are too big to wing it but not big enough for a full C-suite. From building metrics that drive accountability... Read More →

Steve Hennegan

Partner/Chief Growth Officer, Seven Hills Technology

Helping Companies Tackle Complex Technology Challenges & Build Outstanding Software Products

Ellen Craven

Owner, Brandnovus.com

Ellen Craven: Brand Strategy, Design and Innovation Leader. I believe brands aren’t accidental, they’re engineered. I’ve spent 30 years in strategy, insights, design, and innovation, helping brands like Intel, P&G, Lockhead Martin, Kraft Foods, Illinois Health Alliance, Philips... Read More →

Sponsors

Seven Hills Technology

Seven Hills Technology is a software product agency based in Cincinnati, Ohio. We help companies design, build, and launch digital products that solve real problems and create measurable impact. Our team blends strategy, design, and engineering in a collaborative, hands-on way, working... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Alcove - The Loft Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:00pm EDT

PANEL: AI in Banking, Insurance, and Finance: What's Now? What's Next?

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Somerhaus Events Venue

The financial sector has emerged as both a pioneer and a proving ground for AI innovation. In this session, leaders across banking, insurance, and financial services will explore how AI is currently being deployed—and where the next wave of transformation is headed.

From fraud detection and underwriting to customer experience and risk modeling, panelists will share the most impactful use cases they’re seeing today, the barriers to adoption, and how to future-proof AI strategies in a regulated and competitive environment.

Speakers

Madhavi Najana

Federal Home Loan Bank Of Cincinnati

Madhavi Najana is an award winning, trailblazing leader in AI, currently working at Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, USA, with over 19 years of experience in Software engineering. She is a Strategic AI Advisory Board member for Ashland University, Ohio State Ambassador for Women... Read More →

Gladson Baby

Srinath Chandramohan

Senior Manager Technology Consulting, EY

With over 17 years of extensive experience in insurance technology, Srinath has adeptly transitioned through various roles — from Technical Lead to Product Manager to Engineering Manager — successfully leading technology teams across multiple regions and time zones. His career... Read More →

Anusha Nerella

State Street Corporation

Ron Rock

Managing Director, Financial Services, JobsOhio

Sponsors

JobsOhio

JobsOhio, the state’s unique private economic development corporation, acts as a catalyst for high-growth business investments and job creation that are helping propel the state’s ingenuity and ambitions forward. Founded 14 years ago, JobsOhio is a first-of-its-kind, state-authorized... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Somerhaus Events Venue 1415 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:30pm EDT

Panel: Rewriting the Roadmap: How AI Reshapes Business Strategy in Real Time

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

AI is no longer just a tool—it’s a force that’s actively reshaping business models, decision-making processes, and long-term strategy. This panel brings together executive leaders and innovation strategists to share how AI is influencing strategic planning across functions, from product development and operations to workforce planning and customer experience.

Panelists will discuss how they’re adapting to rapidly evolving capabilities, realigning goals, and navigating uncertainty while staying competitive. This is a session for decision-makers who understand that AI isn’t a line item—it’s the lens through which future-ready strategy is being built.

Speakers

Nate Sowder

Innovation, Fifth Third & Cintrifuse Executive in Residence

Nate Sowder is at Fifth Third Bank, where he's an AI adoption strategist and connects startups, enterprises, and universities to accelerate emerging tech. He also serves as an Executive in Residence at Cintrifuse and an Entrepreneur in Residence at The Entrepreneurs Center in Dayton... Read More →

Mark Schnitter

CIO, Nexigen

Mark is the Chief Information Officer at Nexigen, leading the IT security practice. He has vast experience in results-driven environments spanning multiple industries, organizational sizes, and technologies. A key aspect to Mark’s success is bringing people, process, and technology... Read More →

Nicole Armstrong

Ellequate

Prekshya Nepal

Data Scientist III, FedEx

Kristy Wedel

Learning Experience Manager, AlignAI

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

1:45pm EDT

PANEL: AI in Healthcare and Medicine: Improving Outcomes for People and Systems

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT

Somerhaus Events Venue

AI is transforming healthcare from every angle—enhancing diagnostics, streamlining operations, accelerating research, and improving patient experiences. But realizing these benefits requires careful navigation of clinical, ethical, and organizational complexity.

This panel brings together healthcare innovators and practitioners to share how AI is making a real impact in both patient care and health system performance. Panelists will explore current use cases, implementation challenges, and what it will take to build trusted, scalable, and human-centered AI in medicine.

Speakers

Puneet Sodhi

Click Therapeutics, Group Product Manager

Zag ElSayed

Asst Professor, University of Cincinnati

Zag ElSayed (Dr. Zag). He received his B.S. and M.S. with Distinction degree of Honor from Alexandria University in 2005. He got his second M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from UL at Lafayette in 2016; he worked as a research engineer and IT consultant in Africa, Europe, and... Read More →

Sarah Giolando-Matlin

Founder & CEO, OKTO Strategic Advisors

Senior healthcare leader and advisor to start-up companies and established healthcare organizations working to leverage technology and consumer insights to transform healthcare.

Salwa Arafa, PhD, Rph

Compliance Pharmacist, Cincinnati Children’s

PhD in NeuroScience and Pediatric Pharmacist at Cincinnati Children’s Medical center. Founder and Owner of AEBImportsLLC.

Santosh Kumar

Technical Leader - AI, HCLTech, USA

Santosh Kumar is a seasoned AI/ML Technical Leader with over 15 years of experience driving innovative solutions across healthcare, insurance, and enterprise systems. He currently leads cutting-edge initiatives in Generative AI, with a focus on clinical decision support, smart claims... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT
Somerhaus Events Venue 1415 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

1:45pm EDT

Panel: Building the AI Stack: Data, Models, and Infrastructure That Scale

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT

Alcove- The Gathering Room

An AI Stack is the full set of technologies, tools, and systems used to build, train, deploy, and scale artificial intelligence solutions in a real-world environment.
Think of it like layers in a cake—each one has a job, and together they make AI possible. From proof-of-concept to production at scale, building a sustainable AI stack is one of the most complex—and critical—challenges facing modern organizations. This panel brings together experienced practitioners to unpack how real companies are building scalable AI systems from the ground up.

We’ll dive into the practical decisions behind data pipelines, model deployment, and infrastructure orchestration. Learn what tools and frameworks are actually being used, how teams are overcoming blockers like integration and data quality, and which strategies are delivering real business value.
This is not a theoretical conversation—it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how AI is being built, scaled, and delivered in the real world.

Speakers

Chris Hensley

CTO, Nexigen

Chris Hensley is Nexigen's Chief Technology Officer and been with the organization since 2017. As CTO, Chris is responsible for Nexigen's overall technology strategy and to drive new client initiatives. Prior to joining Nexigen, Chris has worked in the Technology Services industry... Read More →

Joe Owens

Owens63

Joe Owens is an experienced Enterprise Architect and Product Management professional with a deep technical foundation in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics. He helps organizations harness data to drive intelligent decision-making and scalable performance... Read More →

Gautam Solaimalai

Vice President, US Bancorp

Richard Schramm

Principal / CTO, Fairwind Technologies

Hands-on AI & technology consultant and Fractional CTO, helping startups, SMBs, and growth-stage companies bridge the gap between vision and execution.With 25+ years of experience in AI, Healthcare, SaaS, and Enterprise Innovation, I partner with founders and executive teams to... Read More →

Arpit Gupta

Senior Director, Predictive Analytics & Data Science, CareSource

Prateek Shrivastava

Advanced analytics manager, Cummins

I'm a data and AI leader with 12+ years of experience solving real-world problems across supply chain, marketing, and enterprise systems. I currently lead advanced analytics at Cummins and enjoy applying machine learning to improve business outcomes. Outside of work, I mentor aspiring... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EDT
Alcove- The Gathering Room 1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Panel

2:15pm EDT

Panel: AI + ROI: Real Use Cases That Moved the Needle

Wednesday June 11, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

AI isn't just about experimentation—it’s about execution. In this panel, leaders share real stories of AI initiatives that delivered measurable return on investment. From reducing costs and improving efficiency to unlocking new revenue and transforming customer experiences, this session will focus on what it takes to move the needle.

Panelists will explore how they identified high-impact use cases, overcame implementation hurdles, measured success, and scaled their wins. Whether you're looking for inspiration or a playbook, this session is full of practical takeaways from teams that made AI work.

Speakers

Steve Brunker

CEO, Brain-CA Technologies

Matt Wenning

Director Cloud Solution Architecture - Data & AI, Microsoft

Matt Wenning is Director of Cloud Solution Architecture, Data & AI at Microsoft, where he leads a team of architects focused on designing and deploying enterprise-scale AI and analytics solutions for customers. With a strong foundation in data strategy and cloud architecture, Matt... Read More →

Charlie Apigian

Lead Data and AI Strategist, LBMC

Naveen Ramakrishna

Dell

Margee Moore

CEO, Big Orange Marketing

🍊 You know how you want to get more leads and grow your business, but you're not sure how? We help American businesses do just that with lean, efficient, and 🍊juicy🍊 digital marketing that gets results. 🚀 Ask me about our Lead-Gen Revenue Engine campaign offering... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Union Hall- Beer Hall (2nd floor)

Panel

CincyAIweek25

From $101.87