Throughout Spring 2024, we’ve hosted a diverse array of programs that have sparked conversations and forged connections in the realms of technology and leadership. From navigating executive transitions to exploring the impacts of AI on underserved communities, our events have ignited curiosity, stimulated thinking, and paved the way for innovation and inclusivity.
CxO Spring Exchange – Surviving and Thriving Change – Navigating Executive Transitions (March 20th, 2024)
Innovate@UCLA would like to thank Thomas Phelps, Innovate@UCLA’s Immediate Past Chair and SVP & CIO at Laserfiche, for hosting the CxO Spring Exchange in Laserfishe headquarters in Long Beach.
This event provided invaluable guidance to executives navigating career transitions, featuring discussions on navigating job changes, career pivots, and leadership shifts. Whether navigating a job change, a career pivot, or a leadership shift within an organization, CxOs face unique challenges and opportunities
NBA Hall of Famer James Worthy, also known as “Big Game James,” joined the exchange, offering his unique perspective during a Q&A session. Following the discussions, attendees had the opportunity for a photo session and basketball signing with James Worthy.
The event featured a panel of seasoned executives who shared insights and strategies for successful transitions. Moderated by Angela Gardner, Partner in Charge of Heidrick & Struggles, the panel included Phillip Leclair, Interim Executive Director of the City of Pasadena; Melanie Hildebrandt, CIO of Endeavor and TKO; and George Sheth, Managing Partner of Diligent Partners, LLC. The panel delved into key topics such as emerging trends in executive transitions, challenges faced by leaders in dynamic environments, and strategies for fostering resilience and adaptability.
Special appreciation goes to our sponsor, Caylent, for their contribution to this event. Greg Moskalenko and Seth Stepakoff presented Caylent’s AWS cloud service solutions, aiding customers in cost reduction and operational optimization.
Innovate@UCLA Women in Technology Virtual Event #1 – Impact of AI on the Lives and Rights of Women and Underserved Communities (March 27th, 2024)
This March, Innovate@UCLA’s Women in Technology (WIT) organized a compelling virtual panel featuring Dr. Safiya Noble and Dr. Sarah T Roberts, who delved into the profound implications of AI on women and underserved communities. Dr. Roberts, an associate professor at UCLA and co-founder of C2i2, discussed the structural barriers entrenched within the tech industry and the ways in which AI feeds that cycle. In tandem, Dr. Safiya Noble, a UCLA professor and author of “Algorithms of Oppression,” shed light on algorithms’ pervasive biases and inequities, especially during the early stages of integrating technological terms into everyday language.
Randi Levin, CEO of The Women in Tech Accelerator, opened the event, while Davida Johnson, Interim Executive Director at UCLA Office of Advanced Research Computing, facilitated the panel discussions, urging attendees to confront the increasing risks posed by AI and to advocate for a more equitable and inclusive technological landscape. Overall, the event empowered participants to engage in critical conversations addressing the disparities that have become ever more concerning as a result of AI.
Spring Summit – Generative AI and Cybersecurity (April 10th, 2024)
Innovate@UCLA members gathered at California NanoSystems Institute UCLA for an engaging event regarding AI/Generative AI use cases and cybersecurity approaches. Rob Devers, Senior Fellow/Principal at Avasant, gave a thought-provoking speech about AI Trends. He explored CxO perspectives on AI usage in the workplace and its effects on the job market. He also left us with thought-provoking comments on what makes the distinction between humans and AI. Jim Rinaldi, Innovate@UCLA Executive Director, moderated a CIO Perspectives on AI panel featuring Theresa Miller, CIO & EVP IT at Lionsgate, and Greg Moore, VP & CIO at KB Home. Our panelists explored AI use within their companies and gave their observations as high-ranking executives.
The second panel was a CISO Panel on Cybersecurity and Challenges to AI. Bhupesh Arora, Innovate@UCLA Executive Chair, moderated the discussion with Wes Gavins, VP & Head of Cybersecurity at LA 28, Virginia Lyons, SVP & CISO at Sony Pictures Entertainment, and Jeffrey Aguilar, CISO at County of Los Angeles. Our panelists delved into the implications of AI in generating creative media. They provided valuable perspectives into maintaining cybersecurity during the Olympics and political elections as well. We’d like to thank all of the panelists mentioned for their time and incredible insights regarding the future of AI.
Additionally, we’d like to thank our sponsors, Fortinet and Moveworks. Sealand Flynn from Fortinet gave an amazing overview of the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Evan Baldwin of Moveworks informed us about Moveworks’ high-security products, which are revolutionizing companies’ workflows.
As Spring 2024 draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of these enriching events. Your participation and insights have been invaluable in shaping our community of innovation and collaboration at Innovate@UCLA.