Advancing collaboration, modernization and citizen-centered services
We're inspired. We're motivated. We're innovative.
On April 23, VITA partnered with Public Sector Network to host the Government Innovation Virginia 2026. The one-day conference brought together state leaders, tech experts and industry partners to learn, collaborate and connect.
The event highlighted how the Commonwealth is moving beyond basic digital services toward a more intelligent and proactive model of governance often referred to as Government 3.0. Through advanced data systems, AI integration and IT infrastructure modernization, Virginia continues to deliver faster, smarter and more citizen-centered services.
Government Innovation Virginia offered participants a valuable opportunity to explore what agencies across the Commonwealth are accomplishing. The event encouraged meaningful conversations among peers, enabling agencies to share successes, learn from one another, workshop solutions and strengthen relationships across the Commonwealth of Virginia. This exchange of knowledge is essential as Virginia continues to use technology to modernize service delivery and improve outcomes for residents.
The event opened with remarks from Secretary of Administration Traci J. Deshazor, who emphasized that true government transformation requires reducing friction for residents by streamlining services and eliminating unnecessary steps. She also highlighted that inefficiency carries a real cost. When services are intuitive, transparent and simple to navigate, government becomes more accessible and more affordable. She called for a shift from reactive to predictive public services that anticipate needs, close gaps quickly and deliver outcomes that residents can feel in their daily lives. Technology, she said, is a tool that can improve lives and strengthen trust when used responsibly.
Throughout the day, VITA speakers and partners shared insights during keynotes, panels and fireside chats.
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CIO Mike Watson spoke about the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the challenges posed by AI, automation and emerging quantum technologies.
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Security Products and Services Director Richard White explored how VITA is balancing value and maintaining the highest standards of security while adopting AI.
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Supply chain management leaders Shabeen Vijayan and Mary Lou Bulger unpacked how innovation, data and collaboration are public purchasing and how AI can be used to enhance contracts and supply chain functions.
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Deputy Chief Data Officer Marcus Thornton highlighted how Virginia's Substance Use Disorder Analytics (SUDA) platform is harnessing data to combat substance use disorders.
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Deputy Chief of Enterprise and Intelligent Solutions Priya Saldanha joined fellow panelists to discuss real-world AI solutions that are enhancing customer service and compliance, and the power of strategic, secure and data-driven innovation.
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Legal director Jaime Hoyle described how VITA is using AI to identify and analyze relevant content within the General Assembly process.
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Procurement experts Kayla Anderson and Larry White provided vendors with insights into the government procurement process to enable stronger partnerships.
VITA was honored to be part of an event that highlighted so much of the Commonwealth's talent, and look forward to supporting work that delivers faster, smarter and more citizen centric services. We're ready to keep the momentum going!