Thank You
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Fall 2026 IT Leadership Conference at the Michigan League on October 13! The event marked the conclusion of our inaugural conference series, which began in October 2025 and focused on helping ITS leaders navigate disruption with resilience and innovation. Over the past year, leaders have come together to strengthen connections and explore practical approaches to communication, emotional intelligence, strategy, innovation, and leading through change. We invite you to revisit highlights and resources from past conferences and continue applying these insights in your work. See past highlights.
Leadership Speakers
The day featured inspiring keynote speakers and thought leaders, including:
- Kevin Ertell, Founder of Mistere Advisory and author of The Strategy Trap
- Diane Jones, Assistant Vice President of ITS Administration & Operations and moderator of the afternoon leadership panel
- Cathy Handyside, ITS Executive Director
- Bob Jones, Assistant Vice President of Support Services and Emerging Technology
- Brock Palen, ITS Executive Director
- Andy Palms, ITS Executive Director
Conference Poster Showcase
Working Sessions & Workshops
The Fall 2026 conference featured interactive workshops and lightning talks designed to give ITS leaders practical tools for navigating disruption, strengthening resilience, and leading through change. Sessions included:
-
GROW Through Disruption: Coaching for Innovation and Resilience
Presented by Rebekah Ashley, JD
An interactive workshop focused on using the GROW coaching model to strengthen adaptability, innovation, ownership, and action during periods of change. -
Conflict Resolution: We Can Work IT Out
Presented by Michael Herrington
An interactive workshop focused on practical approaches for navigating difficult conversations, reducing defensiveness, and maintaining trust and accountability. -
Lightning Talk: Disaster Recovery
Presented by Lynne Ertel
A discussion focused on disaster recovery within ITS.
Highlights
Service Spotlight
The 2026 IT Leadership Conference provided ITS leaders with information about several services and programs that can augment their team’s ability to effect change at the University of Michigan. We encourage you to explore the offerings of these incredible partner services.
