The Power of Interconnection:
Why You Need to Be in Atlanta September 17-19!
I recently finished reading Navigating The Age of Chaos by Jamais Cascio, Bob Johansen, and Angela F. Williams. The authors outline how modern leaders must navigate a world that has become Brittle, Anxious, Non-Linear, and Incomprehensible (BANI). The antidote? Developing BANI-positive skills—the cornerstone of which is Interconnectedness.
To lead effectively through complexity, we cannot rely on isolated thinking. We must actively cultivate strong connections with people who offer a breadth of cultural and intellectual perspectives. Expanding our lens is what transforms overwhelming chaos into clarity.
Just today, I was mired in strategic planning and calendar management when a single phone call with a longtime ITSMF member completely shifted my perspective. A brief exchange left me inspired, re-energized, and refocused on our most transformative priorities. That single conversation was a powerful reminder of what happens when this community activates.
That same magic is why I am so thrilled for our upcoming S2 Symposium & 30th Anniversary Gala, taking place September 17–19 at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, GA.
Bringing hundreds of executive technology leaders together takes immense planning, but all the behind-the-scenes effort pales in comparison to the “secret sauce” of an ITSMF gathering. It is medicine for the mind and career. When our members check in, they agree to leave distracting thoughts at the door, focus on lifting each other up, forge new relationships, and sharpen their leadership.
Proven Impact & Vision for the Future
At the Symposium, I will also be sharing a brief introduction to what we learned from our recent stakeholder-wide survey and seven focus groups, along with our strategic priorities for ITSMF going forward. The data reinforces the tangible power of this network:
- 59% of respondents gained increased leadership responsibilities after engaging with ITSMF.
- 55% earned a promotion.
- 50% saw an increase in their compensation.
- 38% gained greater executive visibility.
Here is a glimpse of what else awaits you in Atlanta:
- Exclusive Leadership Forums: Targeted, high-impact spaces including the Elevate & Emerge Forum, CISO Forum, Ignite Entrepreneurship Forum, and an intimate CXO Forum.
- World-Class Insights: Strategic sessions on serving on corporate boards, plus a keynote address from Silicon Valley titan, author, and leadership expert, Shellye Archambeau.
- 30th Anniversary Technology Leaders Awards Gala: On Saturday, September 19, we will celebrate three decades of impact by honoring eighteen Technology Leader Award recipients, installing new ITSMF Fellows, presenting a Lifetime Achievement Award, and raising vital funds for our ITSMF Scholars.
I know your schedule is full. You are managing teams, navigating transitions, caring for family, and balancing board commitments. But to finish this year strong and launch into 2027 with vigor, clarity, and purpose, you need the power of this interconnected community. And just as importantly, we need your voice and presence in the room.
Invest in yourself, your leadership, and your community.
Register today for the S2 Symposium and Gala. I look forward to welcoming you to Atlanta!
Johanna JonesPresident & CEO
About Information Technology Senior Management Forum
Since 1996, Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) has been dedicated to prepare professionals for executive roles in technology, to impact organizational innovation and growth. We do this by developing and nurturing these dynamic leaders through enrichment of the mind, body and soul. With a half-million new computer-related jobs expected by 2028, ITSMF is committed to increasing the number of qualified professionals for these positions. For more information about ITSMF, visit itsmfleaders.org.
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