Local leaders and practitioners gathered to explore data, trends, and insights that strengthen communities and improve outcomes
Hundreds of leaders and practitioners gathered yesterday at Columbus State’s Center for Workforce Development to explore ways to incorporate data into decision making which will enhance all areas of life in Central Ohio.
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) held its signature data conference, Data Day, to exchange research findings, techniques and solutions that will help to advance a stronger, collaborative and more sustainable region.
Data Day is an opportunity to learn more about what our region is doing to promote data-driven decision-making and how local governments, nonprofits, and civic-minded companies are producing data and visualizations to support better informed local decision making. Scheduled as an annual one-day event, attendees gained awareness of innovative data practices, made new connections within the data community, and discovered actionable insights to support evidence-based planning across Central Ohio.
As we continue to navigate this period of strong growth in Central Ohio, data is the most powerful tool we have to ensure that our region remains among the best places to live, work and raise a family. Data Day is about empowering professionals to tackle complex problems with data and analyses; challenging assumptions and unknowns to build a future that is sustainable, equitable and intentional for every community in our region.
This year’s theme, People + Data = Inspired Futures, featured diverse breakout sessions on topics ranging from Data Modernization, Cyber Collaboration, and Building Strategies for the Future of Human Needs. Two keynote presenters explored data through the lens of community research, key metrics, and more.
The morning keynote featured Salema Rice, Chief Executive Officer of IntelliCon Global, a trusted executive forum where senior data, Artificial Intelligence, and technology innovation leaders connect to share what’s working, challenge ideas and work to shape the future together.
I was honored to participate in MORPC’s Annual Data Day because the #SiliconHeartland understands that data and AI are not abstract concepts; they shape real decisions that affect real people. In government especially, trust, transparency, and outcomes matter, and creating a space for leaders to learn from one another is essential as technology continues to move faster than our systems and structures.
The luncheon keynote included a panel discussion of area transportation leaders, moderated by MORPC Transportation Study Director Maria Schaper, on the current state of transit in the region.
Our region is leading with bold ideas, new opportunities and community-driven solutions that advance goals of greater access, affordability, safety, and sustainability across a wide array of policy domains. Today’s choices will shape tomorrow’s communities and strategic long-term planning is critical to achieving success.
For more information on Data Day, visit Data Day 2026 – MORPC.org.
