Celebrating McMaster IT at 7th annual IT Forum.

For the seventh consecutive year, the McMaster IT community united at the annual IT Forum to build connections, learn, and celebrate achievements together.  

This year’s Forum took place in person at the Peter George Centre for Living and Learning on February 21 and virtually via Microsoft Teams on February 27. With three keynote speakers, 15 Showcase presentations, two Engagement sessions, a panel discussion on Generative AI, a learning activity, and loads of prizes, the forum provided attendees with many fun activities and networking opportunities.  

As always, the IT Forum celebrated the McMaster IT community and its enduring impact on McMaster University. Thanks to everyone who attended in-person or online. 

DAY 1

The IT Forum kicked off in-person with opening remarks by Gayleen Gray, McMaster’s AVP and CTO, followed by an encouraging keynote presentation by Pete Bombaci, Founder of the GenWell Project, on the power of human connection.  

Following a break, attendees reconvened for a keynote speech by Matheus Grasselli, Deputy Provost McMaster University. Next, a panel discussion on Generative AI featuring both Gayleen and Matheus, as well as Erin Aspenlieder, Special Advisor to the Provost on Generative AI, and Gianni Parise, Associate Vice President, Research, shed light on the future of AI at McMaster.  

Following the panel, attendees engaged in a ‘Digital Moment’ activity where they imagined a scenario in which AI could create a delightful digital experience for students, staff, and faculty.  

Attendees then selected three showcase sessions to attend over the afternoon. Attendees had a wide range of sessions to choose from, including ‘New LinkedIn Learning: AI-Powered Coaching Tips and More’ and ‘MacITGO: A new service for McMaster IT projects.’

Day 2 

Held virtually on Microsoft Teams, the second and final day of the IT Forum featured a fascinating look into the world of AI courtesy of keynote speaker Cassidy Bereskin, Director & Founder of Oxford Generate AI Summit (and McMaster graduate). 

Following Cassidy’s remarks, attendees chose one of two concurrent engagement sessions to wrap up the 2024 IT Forum.

Recordings

If you missed the 2024 IT Forum or would like to rewatch any sessions, please find all of the recordings available on the Connectivity 2024 Teams channel right here.