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Community Events

If you would like to share a community event, email event information to info@technologyfirst.org.

Upcoming events

    • 10/06/2026
    • 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Digital Transformation Center 1520 S Main St, Dayton, OH 45409
     
     

    Oct 06

    DTC Insight Lab Series: Toolchains vs. SaaSpocalypse-The Great Integration Debate

    The future of the defense industrial base may hinge on one question: integrated enterprise toolchains or an open, AI-driven ecosystem? Integrated platforms offer efficiency, security, traceability, and scale, but may increase vendor dependence. AI-native, API-driven approaches can accelerate innovation while creating governance, integration, and fragmentation challenges. Join Ashima Sharma, founder and CEO of Ayuka AI & Data, and Dr. Keith Ballard, an Air Force Research Laboratory researcher, for an interactive debate on the trade-offs shaping the future of defense technology. Register today!

    Digital Transformation Center
    1520 S Main St, Dayton, OH 45409
    View on map

    Tuesday, October 6, 2026
    03:30pm - 06:00pm

    Add to Google · Outlook Web · Outlook Mobile · Yahoo · iCal

     

    Register

    Free


    • 10/13/2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • ESCC Piqua Campus 1973 Edison Drive Piqua, OH 45356 ROOM 11

    • 10/14/2026
    • 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
    • 201 Tyler Way, Moraine, OH, 45439

    Presented by GoCyber Collective and GDAHA

    When cyberattacks threaten patient care, resilience matters.

    Healthcare organizations face an increasingly complex threat landscape where ransomware,
    supply chain attacks, business email compromise, and data breaches can disrupt operations and
    impact the communities they serve. Building cyber resilience is no longer just an IT priority; it’s
    an organizational imperative.

    That’s why GoCyber Collective and GDAHA (Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association) are
    proud to present Cyber Resilience Conference: Healthcare 2026 on Wednesday, October 14th, 2026.

    This one-day event brings together healthcare executives, cybersecurity professionals,
    technology leaders, legal experts, emergency management personnel, and trusted industry
    partners for a day focused on practical strategies, meaningful collaboration, and real-world
    solutions.

    Rather than offering abstract theories or sales presentations, Cyber Resilience Conference:
    Healthcare 2026 is designed to provide attendees with actionable insights they can take back to
    their organizations immediately. Through keynote presentations, expert panels, and focused
    discussions, participants will explore today’s evolving threat landscape while sharing best
    practices for prevention, response, recovery, and long-term resilience.

    Topics will include:
    • The evolving cyber threat landscape facing healthcare
    • Incident response and organizational preparedness
    • Leadership during cyber crises
    • Regulatory and legal considerations
    • Building resilient partnerships across the healthcare ecosystem
    • Emerging technologies and their impact on security and patient care

    The conference also provides valuable opportunities to network with peers, engage with trusted
    solution providers, and strengthen relationships across Ohio’s healthcare and cybersecurity
    communities.

    Cyber resilience is not built in isolation. It is built through preparation, collaboration, and shared
    knowledge. Whether you’re a hospital executive, security practitioner, IT leader, compliance
    professional, risk manager, legal advisor, or technology partner, you’ll leave this conference with
    new connections, practical ideas, and a stronger foundation for protecting your organization and
    the patients who depend on it.

    Details:
    Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
    Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
    Location: 201 Tyler Way, Moraine, OH, 45439

    Join us as we work together to strengthen healthcare cyber resilience across our region and beyond

    Register Here


    • 10/14/2026
    • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Westown- Montgomery County Job and Family Services 4030 W 3rd St, Dayton, OH

    In Person Courses

    AI Workflow Automation: Where to Start? (In Person)

    Course

    Listing Price: $75

    Ends Oct 14, 2026

    About This Course

    Register

    The AI Excellence Institute is proud to partner with Ayuka Consulting to bring you an interactive and informative workshop on implementing AI into your workflow.

    Date: October 14, 2026  
    Time:
    10am-11:30am / Registration 9:30am-10am
    Cost: $75
    Location: Westown- Montgomery County Job and Family Services 4030 W 3rd St, Dayton, OH
     
    Course Description: AI workflow automation can help organizations reduce repetitive work, improve consistency, and free employees to focus on higher-value activities—but many teams struggle to identify where to begin. This practical session helps participants recognize strong automation opportunities, assess whether a workflow is ready for AI, and avoid common mistakes when selecting tools or launching a first project. Participants will leave with a simple framework for prioritizing use cases and defining a manageable first automation initiative.
     
    Key Learning Objectives

    1. Identify high-value automation opportunities by examining repetitive tasks, manual handoffs, delays, errors, and data-intensive work.
    2. Evaluate workflow readiness by considering process clarity, data availability, risk, human oversight, and expected business value.
    3. Define a practical first automation project with a clear scope, success measures, stakeholder roles, and next steps for implementation.e.

     

    For questions, please contact Lindsay Tate (lindsay.tate@sinclair.edu).

    Sign up for this course today!

    • 10/14/2026
    • 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Fretboard Brewing Co. 5800 Creek Rd Cincinnati OH 45242

    Vaco

    Cincinnati Geektoberfest 2026: the geek event of the year

    A casual evening of drinks, great bites, and genuine connections for the tech, accounting, and finance communities.

    RSVP

    Event details

    Geektoberfest is Vaco by Highspring's annual happy hour series for the technology community, welcoming leaders and professionals from accounting and finance as well. Whether you're a senior engineer, a startup founder, a CTO, a finance leader, or a hiring manager, this is where forward-thinking professionals come together for conversations that don't happen in a conference room.


    This isn't a networking event with name tags and awkward elevator pitches. It's an evening of good drinks, good food, and conversations with people you actually want to meet.

    What to expect: 

    • An evening of relaxed, high-value networking 
    • Photo opportunities with social sharing encouraged 
    • Connections with local professionals, clients, and community leaders

    Venue

    Fretboard Brewing Co.

    5800 Creek Rd

    Cincinnati OH 45242

    Date and Time

    Wednesday, October 14, 2026 5:00PM - 9:30PM EDT



    • 10/16/2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 07/13/2027
    • 12:00 PM
    • TBD


    Hosted by The Circuit, the IT Leadership Institute is a leadership development program now available to Technology First members.

    Successful IT leaders, whether in formal leadership roles or leading through influence, combine technical expertise with emotional intelligence and a commitment to growth. They set vision, understand people, and shape culture with intent. The payoff: stronger teams, better business outcomes, and lasting impact across the IT community.

    About the Program

    The IT Leadership Institute is a 10-month, immersive leadership development experience designed specifically for IT professionals. Through expert-led sessions, peer discussion, and applied learning, participants will:

    • Increase self-awareness and understand how they are perceived by others
    • Identify their leadership style and apply it for maximum impact
    • Build and inspire high-performing teams
    • Develop critical leadership skills for an evolving technology landscape
    • Lead through influence rather than authority
    • Navigate complex organizational dynamics with confidence

    Program Structure

    • Schedule: One half-day session per month, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, October through July (no December session)
    • Format: Expert-led discussions, peer collaboration, and CIO-level guest speakers
    • Environment: A focused, trusted space for tackling real-world IT leadership challenges

    Key Topics

    • The Essence of Leadership
    • Community Project Planning
    • Technology Leadership and Why It’s Different
    • Is Management for Me?
    • Transformational Leadership: Vision and Strategy
    • Transactional Leadership: Delivering Results That Matter
    • IT Budgeting and Financials
    • Relational Leadership: Coaching, Communication, and Trust
    • Higher-Order Leadership: Leading Other Leaders
    • HR Insights: Interviewing, Career Management, and Networking

      Click here to register and use the password TechnologyFirst

      • 10/20/2026
      • 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
      • UC Digital Futures Room 140Cincinnati, OH

      CincyAI for Humans

      CincyAI for Humans

      UC Digital Futures Room 140Cincinnati, OH

      Tuesday, October 20 •  3 PM - 6 PM

      Reserve a spot

      Overview

      Celebrate 3 years with us and see robots in action!

      It's our 3 year anniversary! Come celebrate with us!
      We will have some special guests visiting us!

      Want to sponsor this special session? Send us a note. We would love to have you.


      Why You Can't Afford to Miss This

      Are you a business looking to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to drive growth and innovation? Curious how AI is transforming industries and boosting efficiency? Whether you’re a decision-maker, entrepreneur, or AI professional, join us for an afternoon of real-world AI insights, strategic business discussions, and collaboration opportunities.


      What's On The Agenda?

      1️ Expert Insights for Business & Tech: Meet and mingle with Cincinnati's AI thought leaders, innovators, and builders. Discover what's being created right here in our region and how businesses are navigating AI.


      2️ QuickBytes Lightning Rounds and Demos: Share your latest AI success story, a game-changing tool, or new AI use case—whether from a business or technical perspective—in a 3-minute showcase. 5-7 slots available!


      3️ Collaboration Corners: Looking for your next big idea, business collaboration, or AI tool to implement? This is the space to brainstorm with industry peers and innovators.


      4️ Refresh & Recharge: Enjoy complimentary water and light snacks provided by our friends at Big Kitty Labs in a relaxed atmosphere and make those valuable business connections that could take your company to the next level.


      Who Should Attend?

      • Business Leaders: Discover AI strategies that drive growth.
      • C-Suite Executives: Learn how AI impacts decision-making and ROI.
      • Entrepreneurs: Identify new AI-driven opportunities.
      • AI Enthusiasts & Tech Professionals: Stay at the forefront of AI innovation.
      • Anyone curious about AI!


      Join a Community, Not Just a Meetup

      This isn't just an event; it's a vibrant, supportive community. At CincyAI, we believe in the power of collective wisdom to drive the AI revolution forward.


      RSVP Now to Secure Your Spot!

      ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

      October 20 from 3-6 pm at the UC Digital Futures Building, Room 140.
      Special networking and celebration from 4:30-6.


      There is parking in the building and you don't have to go into campus. This building is near the interstate and easy to access.

      Seating is limited. We average over 150 attendees each month. Message us to be added to our waiting list as we free up spots. We want you there and will find a way to make it happen.**Got your ticket but can't make it? Please give us a heads-up, and we'll open up the spot for another eager participant. Remember, our space is limited – your quick update can make someone's day!

      ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

      Your hosts for this event are Kendra Ramirez, KR Digital Agency, and Helen Todd, Founder of Tide Rise: helentodd.co.


      Thank you to our partnership with UC Research and UC Digital Futures for sharing their amazing facility to host our community. This wouldn't be possible without them and their generosity.

      #CincyAI




      • 10/21/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
      • Virtual

      AI WEBINAR SERIES – Cultivating an Authentic Voice in the Age of AI

      Virtual Event | Registration Open

      Event Details

      With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

      The first session in the series, “Cultivating an Authentic Voice in the Age of AI,” will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET via Zoom. The webinar will be presented by Dr. Brandy Bagar-Fraley, Writing Program Administrator at Franklin University.

      With AI becoming a more common part of teaching, leadership, and collaboration in higher education, maintaining an authentic voice is more important than ever. This session explores how emerging technologies are reshaping interactions with colleagues and students while offering practical strategies for preserving the personality, perspective, and values that make communication meaningful. Participants will examine why a distinct voice matters in an AI-assisted environment, recognize the “flattening” effect that can result from overreliance on AI, and discover strategies for using AI to strengthen — rather than replace — human connection.

      Learning Goals:

      • Analyze AI’s impact on individual communication
      • Connect communication to context and culture
      • Recognize and avoid AI “flattening”
      • Identify personal communication markers that establish an authentic voice

      Reserve your spot today to gain practical strategies for using AI without losing the human voice that makes your teaching, leadership, and collaboration most effective.

      Registration closes Sunday, Oct. 18.

      [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      REGISTER NOW

      When: Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Where: SOCHE Zoom platform [link sent at least 24 hours prior to event]

      Cost:   

      • Personnel from SOCHE member schools: $5
      • Personnel from NON-member schools/organizations: $10
      • Students: FREE [Note: This fee is is reserved for individuals who are students only, not for personnel pursuing continuing education.]

      Questions? Contact Mindy Claggett at SOCHE

      Student Registration Fee Policy

      Registration Cancellation Policy

      REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY, OCT. 18

      REGISTER NOW

      About the Presenter

      Brandy Bagar-Fraley, Ph.D.
      Writing Program Administrator and Lead Faculty, English
      Franklin University

      Dr. Brandy Bagar-Fraley is an academic leader and educator with over twenty years of experience in higher education, faculty development, and writing and literature instruction.  She currently serves as the Faculty Senate President, Writing Program Administrator, and Lead Faculty for English at Franklin University.  In her professional, administrative, and Senate leadership roles, she has additionally led initiatives focused on AI-integrated writing instruction, faculty strategic engagement, instructional quality oversight, and faculty culture-building.  An active scholar and speaker, Dr. Bagar-Fraley has presented at national conferences including the Modern Language Association (MLA) Conference and her writing has appeared in, among other publications, Inside Higher Ed, the CEA Critic, The Teaching Professor, Faculty Focus, and Slate. She holds a Ph.D. in English Literature from Ohio University and serves as the Chair of the MLA’s Committee on Contingent Labor in the Profession. 

      Time

      October 21, 202612:00 pm-1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)


      • 10/23/2026
      • 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
      • Greentree Group, 1360 Technology Ct #100, Beavercreek, OH 45430

      In Person Courses

      Leading Your Team Through AI Change (In Person)

      Course

      Listing Price: $25

      Ends Oct 23, 2026

      About This Course

      The AI Excellence Institute and The Greentree Group are proud to collaborate on an engaging and interactive workshop to help leaders at all levels understand and navigate AI change.

      Date: October 23, 2026  
      Time: 8:30am-10:30am/ registration from 8:00-8:30
      Cost: $25 registration includes breakfast 
      Location: Greentree Group, 1360 Technology Ct #100, Beavercreek, OH 45430 
       
      AI is reshaping how work gets done and how employees experience their roles, teams, and organizations. In this interactive workshop, leaders will understand what makes AI-driven change different from traditional organizational change and how established change models can support—or sometimes limit—their approach. Participants will examine common emotional responses to change, including resistance, uncertainty, and excitement. The session also provides practical strategies for communicating with employees, listening to concerns, and avoiding language that can increase fear or mistrust. Leave with practical tools, greater confidence, and a clear approach for leading your team through the opportunities and uncertainty of AI-driven change.

      For questions, please contact Lindsay Tate ( lindsay.tate@sinclair.edu ).

      Side by side logos

      Sign up for this course today!


      • 10/28/2026
      • 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
      • The Conference Center at OCLC Dublin, OH

      Ohio’s Future Workforce Summit

      October 28th | Dublin

       

      Technology and AI are changing jobs, the skills employers need, and how we prepare students and workers for what comes next.

       

      Ohio’s Future Workforce Summit presented by Xello brings together education, industry, workforce, and government leaders to connect how Ohio educates, trains, re-skills, and upskills people with the changing needs of the state’s innovation economy.

       

      When: Wednesday, October 28th in Dublin

       

      On the agenda: AI in the classroom, education + industry partnerships, re-skilling, tech career pathways, and what Ohio needs to build the workforce of tomorrow.

       

      Seats are limited. We expect this Summit to sell out.

      Join us


      • 11/03/2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • ESCC Piqua Campus 1973 Edison Drive Piqua, OH 45356 ROOM 11


      • 11/06/2026
      • 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
      • Sinclair Centerville, Multipurpose Room

      AI-Excellence-Institute_INLINE_NO-starburst_150ppi.png

       

      AI Excellence Institute

      Sinclair Community College  |  Fall 2026 partner update


      AI in Today's College Classroom: Expectations and Insights  

      Free

      8:30–10:00 a.m., registration 8:00–8:30 a.m.
      Sinclair Centerville, Multipurpose Room

      A panel of college faculty and staff on real classroom policies, the issues they are hitting, and where the opportunities are.

      RSVP for Nov 6


      The Badge Pathway

      The two programs below, with a third under development leading to a full microcredential, are for those who want to learn more about AI, its foundations, applications, and uses, to broaden their own skills, lead others, or get into the nitty-gritty of AI.

      1

      AI 101

      A foundational introduction to AI literacy, responsible use, key concepts, and practical applications. The right starting point for individuals or whole teams.

      Start AI 101

      2

      AI 201  Newly released

      The next step for those ready to build on AI 101 and develop deeper practical knowledge and skills.

      Start AI 201


      • 11/10/2026
      • 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
      • Hosted by Taft Law 115 Madison St. #700, Dayton, OH 45402

      AI-Excellence-Institute_INLINE_NO-starburst_150ppi.png

       

      AI Excellence Institute

      Sinclair Community College  |  Fall 2026 partner update


      Navigating the AI Landscape: Governance, Policy, and Procurement for Non-Profit Leaders

      9:00–11:00 a.m., registration 8:30–9:00 a.m.
      Hosted by Taft Law
      115 Madison St. #700, Dayton, OH 45402

      An interactive workshop for non-profit executives, board members, and operational leaders: a practical framework for AI governance, writing acceptable use policies, and making informed decisions when procuring AI-powered platforms and services.

      RSVP for Nov 10


      The Badge Pathway

      The two programs below, with a third under development leading to a full microcredential, are for those who want to learn more about AI, its foundations, applications, and uses, to broaden their own skills, lead others, or get into the nitty-gritty of AI.

      1

      AI 101

      A foundational introduction to AI literacy, responsible use, key concepts, and practical applications. The right starting point for individuals or whole teams.

      Start AI 101

      2

      AI 201  Newly released

      The next step for those ready to build on AI 101 and develop deeper practical knowledge and skills.

      Start AI 201



      • 11/10/2026
      • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
      • Manor House 7440 Mason Montgomery Road Mason, OH 45040

      Summit 2026
      November 10th, 2026

      Building Future-Ready Project Leaders | 11/10/2026 9AM - 4 PM | Manor House 7440 Mason Montgomery Road Mason, OH 45040 | REGISTER: Early Bird Member $120 | Early Bird Guest - $150 | Student - $25 

      CALL FOR SPEAKERS: More Information - Submit Your Proposal | SPONSOR SUMMIT

      PMI Dayton/Miami Valley & Southwest Ohio Chapters are collaborating again this year to offer regional project managers a premier annual conference on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at the Manor House in Mason, Ohio. This year's Summit promises to be a great day of learning, connection & growth with the focus on Sustainability, PM Core Capabilities, AI Practical Skills, so be sure to REGISTER for Summit 2026: Building Future Ready Project Leaders! 

      MORE

      • 12/12/2026
      • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
      • Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

      Banner image for GetWITit 10-Year Anniversary Gala

      GetWITit 10-Year Anniversary Gala

      Register Here!

      Join us for an unforgettable evening as getWITitcelebrates 10 years of connection, community, impact, and women in technology at our 10-Year Anniversary Gala—a milestone celebration honoring the people, partnerships, and moments that have shaped our first decade and the exciting future still ahead.

      On Saturday, December 12, 2026, the Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens in Columbus, OH will set the stage for an elevated evening bringing together leaders, innovators, members, sponsors, partners, and champions from across the getWITit community.

      From the moment you arrive, there will be something to experience. Walk the red carpet and capture the night with professional photography, interact with a roaming robot photo booth experience by Moxie Events, watch as artists create live custom illustrations and caricatures, and enjoy the sounds ofRobert Dove & His Ensemble performing live jazz throughout the evening.

      Raise a glass with signature Gala cocktails and an open bar while enjoying an hors d’oeuvres dinner reception featuring a generous selection designed to be enjoyed as a full evening meal. Guests will also have exclusive after-hours access to explore Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens with a self guided tour, creating a one-of-a-kind backdrop for connecting, celebrating, and experiencing the Conservatory after dark.

      But the heart of the evening is what we're celebrating... 10 years of getWITit.

      For a decade, our community has brought together women and allies in technology to create connections, open doors, amplify voices, develop leaders, and build a stronger, more inclusive technology community. This Gala is our opportunity to celebrate everyone who has been part of that journey—and to recognize just how much we've accomplished together.

      Come experience an extraordinary night honoring our first 10 years and help us toast to the people, possibilities, and impact that will define the next decade of getWITit.

      What To Expect:

      • An Interactive Roaming Robot Photo Booth Experience By Moxie Events

      • Live Jazz Entertainment Featuring Robert Dove & His Ensemble

      • Self-guided Tour of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Included

      • Live Custom Illustrations & Caricature Art

      • Signature Gala Cocktails & Open Bar

      • Elevated Hors d’Oeuvres Dinner Reception

      • Professional Photography & Red Carpet Photo Opportunities

      • The Anniversary Silent Raffle Drawing

      • An Unforgettable Evening Celebrating 10 Years of Connection, Community & Women in Technology

      Event Details:

      • Location: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

      • Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

      • Date: December 12th, 2026

      • Time: 6:00 PM

      • Formal attire encouraged.

      Save the date — and start planning your gala glam. Formal attire encouraged.


      • 01/29/2027
      • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
      • Virtual

      AI WEBINAR SERIES – AI as Your Project Partner

      Virtual Event | Registration Open

      Event Details

      With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

      The second session in the series, “AI as Your Project Partner,” will be held on Friday, Jan. 29, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET via Zoom. The webinar will be presented by Colleen Kelsey and Lindsay Tate from the AI Excellence Institute at Sinclair College.

      Artificial intelligence can be a valuable project partner, helping professionals plan, organize, communicate and track work more efficiently. In this session, our presenters will demonstrate practical ways to integrate AI into existing project management approaches while keeping human judgment, experience and oversight at the center of the process.

      Through real-world examples and accessible workflows, participants will explore how AI can support tasks such as breaking projects into manageable steps, developing timelines and strengthening project communication — even for those without formal project management training. The presenters also will address ethical considerations, workplace policies and emerging agentic AI capabilities that are shaping today’s project environment.

      Learning Goals

      By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

      1. Identify project tasks that can be supported by generative AI.
      2. Apply AI tools to project planning, communication and task management.
      3. Distinguish between appropriate AI-supported work and decisions requiring human oversight.
      4. Evaluate AI use based on ethical considerations and workplace policies.

      Join SOCHE to discover practical strategies for making AI a more effective project partner and leave with approaches you can put to work in your projects right away. Register today to build your confidence using AI to manage projects more efficiently and effectively.

      Registration closes Tuesday, Jan. 26.

      [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      PRE-WORK: Before this session, the presenters recommend that you review your current workplace AI policy and access to AI tools.

      REGISTER NOW

      When: Friday, Jan. 29, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Where: SOCHE Zoom platform [link sent at least 24 hours prior to event]

      Cost:   

      • Personnel from SOCHE member schools: $5
      • Personnel from NON-member schools/organizations: $10
      • Students: FREE [Note: This fee is reserved for individuals who are students only, not for personnel pursuing continuing education.]

      Questions? Contact Mindy Claggett at SOCHE

      Student Registration Fee Policy

      Registration Cancellation Policy

      REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL CLOSE ON TUESDAY, JAN. 26

      REGISTER NOW

      About the Presenters

      Colleen Kelsey, MFA, M.Ed.
      Instructional Designer, AI Excellence Institute | eLearning Division
      Sinclair Community College

      Colleen Kelsey is an instructional designer, educator, and visual artist specializing in AI literacy, learning experience design, and human-centered innovation. She currently manages AI literacy programs at Sinclair Community College’s AI Excellence Institute, drawing on more than a decade of experience in higher education. With an MFA in Painting and an M.Ed. in Instructional Design & Learning Technologies, Colleen brings a distinctive combination of creative practice, learning science, and design thinking to her work. She collaborates with cross-functional teams and applies frameworks including Agile and ADDIE to lead projects from strategy through implementation. Her work explores how AI and emerging technologies can support project workflows, and the importance of human creativity and innovation.

      Lindsay Tate
      Associate Director of Partnerships, AI Excellence Institute | eLearning Division
      Sinclair Community College

      Lindsay Tate has over 20 years of experience in higher education/adult education and is currently the Associate Director of Partnerships for the AI Excellence Institute at Sinclair College where she creates and facilitates AI trainings for internal and external participants. Prior to this role, she was the Senior Manager for Learning and Development/ Lead Consultant and Learning and Development Consultant in Workforce Development at Sinclair, providing leadership training, coaching and consulting to individuals and organizations. Lindsay holds a Bachelor of Art in Business/Marketing from Transylvania University and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Dayton.

      Time

      January 29, 202712:00 pm-1:00 pm(GMT-05:00)


      • 02/11/2027
      • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
      • Virtual Event

      AI WEBINAR SERIES – Artificial Intelligence in Education: Options for Educators in the Classroom

      Virtual Event | Registration Open

      When: Thursday, Feb. 11, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Event Details

      With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

      The third session in the series, “Artificial Intelligence in Education: Options for Educators in the Classroom,” will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET via Zoom. The webinar will be presented by Dr. Kwabena Kofori-Attah from Central State University.

      Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the possibilities for teaching and learning, creating new opportunities while raising important questions for educators. Concerns about AI’s potential effects on critical thinking and cognitive development have led some educators to approach its use in the classroom with caution. This session will encourage participants to examine those concerns while considering how thoughtful AI integration can support student learning and prepare learners for a changing world.

      Across industries such as banking, engineering, manufacturing, entertainment and aviation, AI is already helping professionals explore new possibilities and transform established practices. Higher education has an important role to play in preparing students to understand and use these technologies effectively. Participants will explore practical approaches for incorporating AI into teaching and learning while maintaining a focus on educational goals, responsible use and student success.

      Learning Goals

      By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

      • Explain what artificial intelligence is.
      • Discuss the differences between human intelligence (HI) and artificial intelligence (AI).
      • Identify common AI tools already being used in education to support effective teaching and learning.
      • Provide appropriate support for students using AI tools such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot to improve learning outcomes.
      • Demonstrate how to write effective prompts for classroom applications of AI.
      • Develop strategies for integrating AI into teaching and learning.
      • Examine ethical considerations related to the adoption and use of AI in education.

      Take the next step toward purposeful AI integration in the classroom. Register today to gain practical strategies for using AI to support teaching, strengthen student learning and prepare learners for an AI-influenced future.

      Registration closes Monday, Feb. 8.

      [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      REGISTER NOW

      When: Thursday, Feb. 11, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Where: SOCHE Zoom platform [link sent at least 24 hours prior to event]

      Cost:   

      • Personnel from SOCHE member schools: $5
      • Personnel from NON-member schools/organizations: $10
      • Students: FREE [Note: This fee is is reserved for individuals who are students only, not for personnel pursuing continuing education.]

      Questions? Contact Mindy Claggett at SOCHE

      Student Registration Fee Policy

      Registration Cancellation Policy

      REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL CLOSE ON MONDAY, FEB. 8

      About the Presenter

      Kwabena D. Kofori-Attah, Ph.D.
      Professor of Education
      Central State University

      Dr. Kwabena Dei Ofori-Attah is a Full Professor of Education at Central State University, Wilberforce, OH. He has over 30 years of experience teaching at four institutions of higher learning after completing his doctoral studies at Ohio University in 1995. His teaching assignments include Educational Technology, Educational Psychology, Educational Research, Seminar in Teacher Education, Social Studies Methods, and Multicultural Education. He has published a book, Going to School in North Africa and the Middle East, and numerous papers on teacher education.

      Time

      February 11, 202712:00 pm-1:00 pm(GMT-05:00)


      • 03/12/2027
      • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
      • Virtual Event

      AI WEBINAR SERIES – AI-Powered Brain Dumps: Simple Recall Assessments That Guide Instruction

      Virtual Event | Registration Open

      When: Friday, March 12, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Event Details

      With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

      The fourth session in the series, “AI-Powered Brain Dumps: Simple Recall Assessments That Guide Instruction,” will be held on Friday, March 12, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET via Zoom. The webinar will be presented by Sharon Tjaden-Burkes from the eLearning Division at Sinclair College.

      How much of a lecture or module are students actually retaining…and how can instructors find out before a high-stakes assessment? This session introduces AI-Powered Brain Dumps, a simple retrieval-practice strategy that gives students and instructors meaningful, low-stakes insight into learning in progress.

      Participants will explore how a five-minute recall activity grounded in cognitive science can uncover misconceptions and content gaps that might otherwise go unnoticed. Through a live demonstration, Sharon will show how to build a brain dump activity in Canvas and pair student responses with AI analysis, such as a ChatGPT Project. This workflow can transform a collection of individual responses into clear patterns and actionable guidance for instruction.

      The session also will examine why retrieval practice can strengthen long-term learning more effectively than rereading, why an ungraded activity can still play an important role in student success, and how brain dumps can support a broader strategy for making learning visible. Participants will leave with a ready-to-use template and a practical approach they can begin applying right away. No previous AI expertise is required.

      Learning Goals

      By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

      • Explain the cognitive science behind retrieval practice and why brain dumps can strengthen long-term retention more effectively than reviewing notes alone.
      • Distinguish between brain dumps and traditional note-taking and identify appropriate points in instruction to use each approach.
      • Build a low-stakes brain dump activity in Canvas using clear, student-friendly instructions.
      • Apply an AI-assisted workflow, such as a ChatGPT Project, to analyze brain dump responses for patterns, misconceptions and instructional next steps.

      Discover a practical way to make student learning more visible and turn real-time insights into stronger instruction. Register today to add AI-Powered Brain Dumps to your teaching and learning toolkit.

      Registration closes Tuesday, March 9.

      [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      PRE-WORK: Create a free ChatGPT account, if you don’t already have one.

      REGISTER NOW

      When: Friday, March 12, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Where: SOCHE Zoom platform [link sent at least 24 hours prior to event]

      Cost:   

      • Personnel from SOCHE member schools: $5
      • Personnel from NON-member schools/organizations: $10
      • Students: FREE [Note: This fee is is reserved for individuals who are students only, not for personnel pursuing continuing education.]

      Questions? Contact Mindy Claggett at SOCHE

      Student Registration Fee Policy

      Registration Cancellation Policy

      REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL CLOSE ON TUESDAY, MARCH 9

      About the Presenter

      Sharon Tjaden-Burkes
      Senior Instructional Designer, eLearning Division
      Sinclair Community College

      Sharon Tjaden-Burkes is a Senior Instructional Designer for the eLearning Division at Sinclair Community College. Before pivoting to instructional design in 2019, she taught English as a Second Language to international students at the university level for 13 years. She is interested in using AI to personalize learning and empower educators to create learning experiences that were previously impossible or impractical.

      Time

      March 12, 202712:00 pm-1:00 pm(GMT-05:00)


      • 04/09/2027
      • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
      • Virtual Event

      AI WEBINAR SERIES – AI for Student Success: Creating Durable Skills and Effective Study Habits

      Virtual Event | Registration Coming Soon

      When: Friday, April 9, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Event Details

      With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

      The fifth and final session in the series, “AI for Student Success: Creating Durable Skills and Effective Study Habits,” will be held on Friday, April 9, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET via Zoom. The webinar will be presented by Dr. Amanda Duselis and Lindsay Tate from the AI Excellence Institute at Sinclair College.

      Students don’t always struggle because they lack information. Often, the challenge is that they haven’t been taught how to study effectively, organize their time, persist through frustration, or assess their own understanding. These durable skills can make the difference between struggling with course material and developing the habits needed for long-term academic success.

      At the same time, students increasingly are turning to AI tools on their own, with or without guidance from their instructors. This session will explore how educators can help students use AI responsibly as a support for stronger study habits rather than as a shortcut around the learning process.

      Amanda and Lindsay will share early results from a pilot underway in a Sinclair Anatomy & Physiology course, where sections completing Sinclair’s AI 101 coursework and a structured learning-preferences assignment are being compared with sections that did not receive the additional coursework. Attendees will see examples of the assignments used in the pilot and explore active-recall strategies such as explaining concepts aloud, concept mapping and the “what if” game. Each strategy can be paired with an optional AI tool, such as Gemini Notebook (formerly NotebookLM), or a chatbot prompt designed to help students check their own reasoning instead of doing the thinking for them.

      The presenters also will demonstrate what responsible, verification-first AI use can look like in a study context and discuss what the comparison data is showing so far about student performance and confidence. Participants will leave with practical, subject-agnostic templates that can be adapted for courses across two-year and four-year institutions, as well as K-12 classrooms.

      Learning Goals

      By the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

      • Identify at least three durable-skill gaps, such as organization, persistence and self-testing, that commonly undermine student success and explain how targeted study-skills coursework can address them.
      • Explore early comparative data from a live Anatomy & Physiology course pilot examining how embedded AI 101 and learning-preferences coursework relates to student performance compared with sections that did not receive the additional coursework, and consider how these findings could apply in other classroom settings.
      • Examine specific active-study techniques, including explaining concepts aloud, visual drawing, connection mapping, question generation, stories and analogies, and “what if” scenarios, along with optional AI prompts that complement each technique.

      Help students build stronger study habits in an AI-enabled learning environment. Register today to explore practical strategies, adaptable resources and responsible approaches to AI that can support lasting student success.

      Registration for this session closes Tuesday, April 6.

      [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      REGISTER NOW

      When: Friday, April 9, from 12-1 p.m. ET [If you are unable to attend live, a recording link will be sent to all registrants.]

      Where: SOCHE Zoom platform [link sent at least 24 hours prior to event]

      Cost:   

      • Personnel from SOCHE member schools: $5
      • Personnel from NON-member schools/organizations: $10
      • Students: FREE [Note: This fee is is reserved for individuals who are students only, not for personnel pursuing continuing education.]

      Questions? Contact Mindy Claggett at SOCHE

      Student Registration Fee Policy

      Registration Cancellation Policy

      REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL CLOSE ON TUESDAY, APRIL 6

      About the Presenters

      Amanda Duselis, Ph.D.
      Associate Professor of Biology/Biotechnology | STEM AI Excellence Institute Faculty Fellow
      Sinclair Community College

      Dr. Amanda Duselis has been part of Sinclair Community College since 2010 and became a tenure-track faculty member in the Biology and Biotechnology Department in 2018. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Purdue University and a Ph.D. in Developmental Genetics from the University of California, Irvine. At Sinclair, she has taught a wide range of biology courses while also contributing to campus committees, grants, and leadership initiatives. Amanda is currently serving as the STEM Faculty Fellow for Sinclair’s AI Excellence Institute and is Chair of Women in STEM camp. She leads a faculty team developing a corequisite course for Principles of Anatomy and Physiology through the Ohio Strong Start to Science grant.

      Lindsay Tate
      Associate Director of Partnerships, AI Excellence Institute | eLearning Division
      Sinclair Community College

      Lindsay Tate has over 20 years of experience in higher education/adult education and is currently the Associate Director of Partnerships for the AI Excellence Institute at Sinclair College where she creates and facilitates AI trainings for internal and external participants. Prior to this role, she was the Senior Manager for Learning and Development/ Lead Consultant and Learning and Development Consultant in Workforce Development at Sinclair, providing leadership training, coaching and consulting to individuals and organizations. Lindsay holds a Bachelor of Art in Business/Marketing from Transylvania University and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Dayton.

      Time

      April 9, 202712:00 pm-1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)



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