SPEAKERS
Inspiration. Knowledge. Experience. Clarity. Our speakers bring it.
The conference had a lot of great networking opportunities, speakers, session topics, and fun events! Anissa Nguyen, University of California, Los Angeles
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Brené Brown
Researcher and Storyteller -
Satya Nadella (featured virtual speaker)
Chairman and CEO, Microsoft -
Jim Goodnight
Co-founder and CEO, SAS -
Alfonso Ribeiro
Iconic TV Personality -
DJ Jazzy Jeff
Grammy Award Winning Artist -
Frank Abagnale
Bestselling Author and Subject of Catch Me If You Can
Testimonials
There is so much to love about SAS Innovate
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I learned a lot about upcoming products from SAS and how the solutions can be leveraged for various use cases. Swetha Vuppalanchi AstraZeneca
Great insight into what is next with SAS. Dave Foster Pinnacle Solutions Inc.
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Great networking event. A very fun environment that facilitates conversation and connections with SAS and other entities. Whitney Van Arsdale Florida Department of Health
Great opportunity for meeting and networking with SAS and customers. Whit Box Optum
Brené Brown
Researcher and storyteller
Dr. Brené Brown is a globally renowned researcher and storyteller who has spent over two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. She is the author of six #1 New York Times bestsellers and the host of two award-winning podcasts. Brené spends most of her time in organizations around the world, helping develop braver leaders and more courageous cultures.
Join Brené and SAS CMO Jenn Chase for a fireside chat. Together, they’ll explore daring leadership and rising strong after setbacks.
Jim Goodnight
Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, SAS
As the CEO of SAS, the leader in AI and analytics software, Jim Goodnight has led the company since its inception in 1976, overseeing an unbroken chain of revenue growth and profitability unprecedented in the industry. He is recognized globally for being a trailblazer among companies that top great workplace rankings, including being No.1 on several country and multinational lists. Harvard Business School named Goodnight a Great American Business Leader, and he was named one of America’s 25 Most Fascinating Entrepreneurs by Inc. magazine. A champion of education reform, Goodnight sees education as critical to the success of individuals, organizations and nations.
Frank Abagnale
Bestselling author and subject of the Catch Me If You Can
Frank Abagnale is one of the world's most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement, secure documents, cybercrime, and scams. With over 48 years of experience, Frank has worked with, advised, and consulted with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies around the world. As a renowned cybersecurity and fraud prevention expert, bestselling author, and the subject of Catch Me If You Can, Frank will share his invaluable insights and experiences in the field of cybersecurity and fraud prevention.
Alfonso Ribeiro
From Broadway to prime-time television, Alfonso Ribeiro has brought energy, talent and charm to every stage he’s graced. The iconic TV personality is the current host of America’s Funniest Home Videos and Dancing with the Stars. He continues to entertain audiences worldwide with his wit, charisma and storytelling.
With decades of experience as an actor, director and Emmy-nominated TV host, Alfonso has left an indelible mark on television and pop culture. He’s also a champion dancer and a lifelong entertainer who knows how to connect with people and inspire them to see the lighter side of life.
Alfonso will host The Late (Afternoon) Show, a dynamic talk show-style session that mixes humor and entertainment while diving into engaging and insightful conversations. This experience promises laughter, insights and memorable moments, featuring special guests and engaging segments.
Join us for this unique session led by one of the most recognizable personalities in entertainment. It’s a can’t-miss event that’s sure to inform and delight!
DJ Jazzy Jeff
From West Philadelphia to stages worldwide, DJ Jazzy Jeff has been spinning, mixing and creating unforgettable music experiences for decades. Renowned for his musical partnership with Will Smith and his role on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Jeff’s flawless turntable skills and innovative production have made him a trailblazer.
With a career of Grammy wins, chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed solo projects, Jeff continues to inspire with his passion for music. From electrifying live shows to his PLAYLIST Retreats that bring artists together, his influence remains as strong as ever. DJ
Jazzy Jeff will bring the energy as the official DJ of The Late (Afternoon) Show. With his signature style and musical versatility, Jeff will set the tone for an unforgettable session filled with humor, entertainment and engaging conversations.
Join us for this lively event featuring one of music’s most iconic figures. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Satya Nadella
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Microsoft
Satya Nadella is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft. Before being named CEO in February 2014, Nadella held leadership roles in both enterprise and consumer businesses across the company.
Joining Microsoft in 1992, he quickly became known as a leader who could span a breadth of technologies and businesses to transform some of Microsoft’s biggest product offerings.
Most recently, Nadella was executive vice president of Microsoft’s Cloud and Enterprise group. In this role he led the transformation to the cloud infrastructure and services business, which outperformed the market and took share from competition. Previously, Nadella led R&D for the Online Services Division and was vice president of the Microsoft Business Division. Before joining Microsoft, Nadella was a member of the technology staff at Sun Microsystems.
Originally from Hyderabad, India, Nadella lives in Bellevue, Washington, with his family. He earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Mangalore University, a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Chicago. Nadella serves on the board of trustees to his alma mater the University of Chicago.