Discover the Plenary Speakers for the 2026 Internet2 Community Exchange in Chicago

Internet2 Community Exchange: Spotlight on Innovation and Collaboration

The excitement is building for the upcoming 2026 Internet2 Community Exchange (CommEX26), scheduled from April 13 to 16 in vibrant Chicago. This annual event, now in its 30th year, promises to be a monumental gathering, emphasizing collaboration within the research and education community. Internet2 recently unveiled a stellar lineup of plenary speakers who will guide discussions aimed at fostering innovation in this crucial sector.

As we celebrate three decades of Internet2's contributions, the theme for this year's CommEX26 is centered around leveraging collective strengths to propel advancements across research and higher education. Its president and CEO, Tripti Sinha, will kick off the event with keynotes reflecting on the organization's rich history and outlining her ambitious vision for the future. Sinha, who took on her role in October 2025, emphasizes the pivotal role of shared infrastructure throughout these years, stating, "For three decades, Internet2 has shown what is possible when the research and education community comes together."

The Fiber of Connection: A Journey Through Time

One of the highlights of CommEX26 will be a plenary session on April 15, led by Domenico Vicinanza, a renowned figure in the world of advanced networking and creativity in education. His presentation, titled "The Fiber of Connection: Internet2's Three Decades of Networked Creativity and Community Building," will explore the beginnings of Internet2 in 1996 and how its vision to provide advanced networking catalyzed innovative collaborative projects worldwide. Vicinanza is set to share his insights from early telematic music experiments to contemporary immersive performances that involve artists across various continents. His unique ability to transform scientific data into artistic experiences has garnered attention from major outlets such as NPR and The Washington Post.

Shared Services: A Response to Emerging Challenges

The sessions will culminate on April 16 with a discussion themed around shared services titled, "Stronger Together: Shared Services as a Strategic Multiplier in Research and Education." This closing panel features thought leaders from the research community addressing the current challenges faced due to budget pressures and cybersecurity threats. As institutions adapt to a rapidly changing landscape, the potential for shared services to streamline operations and enhance resource sharing will be highlighted. Thought leaders on this panel will include Leah Lang, Jennifer March-Wackers, Sean O'Brien, and Natalie Palmer, who will share their experiences and strategies for using shared services to propel institutional efficiency and innovation.

AI Integration: Preparing for the Future

Adding further depth to the discussions, Adam Kronk will deliver an opening keynote titled "The DELTA Strategy: Navigating the Next Decade of Digital Transformation and AI." Kronk plans to discuss the impacts of AI on research and education, proposing a strategic framework that focuses on dignity, embodiment, love, transcendence, and agency. He will empower data professionals and IT leaders with strategies for incorporating AI in ways that honor academic integrity while addressing the rapid evolution of the job market.

A Community-Centric Event

What sets CommEX26 apart from typical technology conferences is its community-driven approach, tailored specifically for IT leaders and stakeholders in the research and education sectors. The event will also showcase the invaluable contributions of sponsors that include prominent organizations like Ciena and Cisco-Splunk-Duo among others. Their support underscores the unified mission of fostering technological innovation.

Registration for CommEX26 has officially opened, and interested participants are encouraged to explore the updated program for additional details. This is a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders, share knowledge, and build connections that will shape the future of research and education.

For more information and to register, visit the official Internet2 website. Join the conversation and be part of this important event, as the future of our digital landscape unfolds.