We’re just getting started! Here’s your quick preview of what to expect tomorrow at SIGUCCS 2025. We’ve got an exciting lineup of sessions, activities, and opportunities for networking that you won’t want to miss. Make sure to get a good night’s rest and get ready for an inspiring day!
Tomorrow’s Highlights:
Breakfast:
6:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Breakfast is included with your hotel stay and is located in the lobby area on the fourth floor.
Opening Plenary
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
Hosted by SIGUCCS Board and Conference Committee
Join us for our Opening Plenary as we kick off the conference with an energizing and welcoming session. This is your opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, learn about the exciting program ahead, and get insights into our host location. We’ll provide an overview of key sessions, special events, and what to expect throughout the conference. Plus, we’ll take time to recognize outstanding contributions with our awards ceremony. Don’t miss this inspiring start to an engaging and impactful event!
Unlocking the Power of Communities of Practice in Higher Education IT
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Hosted by Robert Fricke and Jeffrey Kontio
In today’s fast-changing Higher Ed IT landscape, adapting alone can be daunting. Communities of practice like SIGUCCS provide essential support, collaboration, and shared knowledge to help professionals grow and innovate. This session will set the tone for the conference, showcasing how SIGUCCS fosters problem-solving, professional development, and lasting connections. Through real-world examples and interactive activities, participants will explore the impact of community engagement and leave energized to maximize their conference experience. Whether new or returning, attendees will gain valuable insights into the power of collaboration in shaping their careers.
Lunch – On Your Own
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Take this time to connect with fellow attendees over a delicious lunch.
Downtown Denver, particularly around the Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center, offers a diverse array of lunch options catering to various tastes and preferences. Consider these establishments, all within walking distance of the Embassy Suites Denver Downtown Convention Center, ensuring convenient and delightful lunch experiences:
- Stout Street Social – located on the ground floor of the hotel building
- Potbelly Sandwiches – located at 16th and Court St
- The Corner Office – located just 2 blocks away on 14th and Curtis
- Sam’s No. 3 – located just 3 blocks away on 15th and Curtis
- Brooklyn’s Finest Pizza or Giordano’s – both located on the 16th Street mall
And more. A complete list of dining experiences curated by our “Denver docent” Anna-Liisa is located at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1K9snhUccv-uiEpWbZuEaoaZO8328zS1llzrvNmixY_U/edit?tab=t.0
Afternoon Sessions
1:45 PM – 5:00 PM
Choose three different sessions over the course of the afternoon.
Choose between exploring microlearning and universal design in new hire training using Arcade software and discussing pathways to leadership for women in Higher Ed IT in the first session.
After a short break, dive into how Excel and Power BI dashboards can support data-driven decision-making, explore the role of effective communication in IT operations or choose to learn from a panel on how IT Service Management (ITSM) can drive organizational change in federated IT teams.
The final sessions cover strategies for training non-technical staff into technical roles, evolving Windows endpoint deployment practices, and the importance of hiring the right talent for IT success.
Evening Reception
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Continue the conference conversations at the evening reception before heading to dinner or attending the NCAA Tournament event.
Included with your hotel stay and located in the lobby area on the fourth floor.
NCAA Tournament Reception
6:30 PM –
Even if your team is not playing in the final game of the NCAA tournament, SIGUCCS will be watching! Join us for a low-key reception where the game will be on the big screen and you can catch up with SIGUCCS friends new and old.
Heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts will be served.
Hospitality Suite
8:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Our Hospitality Suite is the perfect evening retreat for attendees to unwind, connect, and enjoy some casual fun. Whether you’re looking to engage in lively board games, have meaningful conversations, or simply relax in a welcoming atmosphere, this is the place to be.
Quick Reminders:
- Location: All events will take place on the third floor of the Embassy Suites, Downtown Convention Center, except where noted.
- Dress Code: Business casual, but feel free to dress in layers – Denver’s weather can be a bit unpredictable and conference meeting spaces will be air-conditioned!
- Event App: Don’t forget to download Sched to personalize your schedule, connect with other attendees, and get real-time updates.
- Meeting Wifi: SSID: Embassy-Meeting, Password: SIGUCCS2025
We can’t wait to see you tomorrow and kick off an amazing day together. If you have any questions or need assistance, our team is always here to help.
Until then, enjoy the evening, and get ready for a fantastic day ahead!
Warm regards,
Lisa Brown
SIGUCCS Executive Committee Chair
SIGUCCS 2025 Conference Co-Chair
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