2026 Data Governance Summit

The 2026 Data Governance Summit, hosted by the Utah Office of Data Privacy and Utah Valley University's Herbert Institute for Public Policy, focuses on transitioning data governance from policy to practical implementation within governmental operations. This summit aims to equip public-sector leaders and implementers with practical tools, real-world models, and a shared vision for building trusted, accountable government services. It addresses how privacy, transparency, and responsible data use can be effectively applied across various public programs and services, ensuring lawful, secure, and individual-centric interactions with health, education, and public safety systems.

The summit is structured around three primary tracks: 1. **Vision and Strategy**: Explores the long-term future of trusted public services, including State-Endorsed Digital Identity (SEDI), verifiable records, and the ethical considerations of Automated Decision-Making and Artificial Intelligence (AI). 2. **Executive Leadership**: Targets decision-makers, focusing on building the business case for privacy, demonstrating Privacy ROI, leveraging Cooperative Contracts, and evaluating a "Shared Services" model for agencies. 3. **Operations**: Provides practical, hands-on guidance for practitioners on daily workflows, utilizing the 0-5 Privacy Maturity Scale, and managing regulatory challenges, specifically focusing on UGDPA and GRAMA standards, records-first inventory clinics, privacy artifacts, and data minimization.

This event emphasizes execution, accountability, and tangible results, bringing together state and local agencies to shape the future of responsible government.