TLI: Technology Leadership Institute- 2025-2026
Friday, January 23, 2026 - Winter Virtual Event
The AI Imperative: Cognitive Development, Instructional Innovation, and School Leadership
Keynote: Dr. Ellen McDonnell, LHRIC Executive Director
Register for the Winter Virtual Event Now
Friday, January 23, 2026
1:00–2:30 pm
Start the New Year with the Technology Leadership Institute's Winter Event, featuring Dr. Ellen McDonnell, LHRIC's Executive Director.
She will share her research, presented to Southern Westchester Superintendents, School Boards, and the National AESA, offering critical insights into AI's impact on education and guidance for district leaders.
Overview: Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the landscape of education, careers, and cognitive development at an unprecedented pace. This keynote will explore critical questions facing school districts as they prepare for this rapidly evolving environment:
• How are districts developing an understanding of the potential effects of AI on the cognitive development of children and adolescents?
This discussion will explore research and practical approaches to ensure that technology enhances, rather than hinders, critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional growth.
• How are districts attempting to prepare graduates to adapt to a rapidly emerging AI environment that will have effects on post-high school education and careers?
We'll examine strategies for equipping students with the skills, adaptability, and ethical grounding needed to thrive in AI-driven workplaces and higher education.
• What are some of the opportunities and challenges for instruction (and school management)?
From personalized learning and administrative efficiency to equity concerns and teacher readiness, we'll highlight both the promise and complexity of integrating AI into classrooms and school systems.
About Ellen
Dr. Ellen McDonnell began her professional career over 30 years ago as a mathematics teacher at John Jay High School in Katonah, NY. Very early in her career, Dr. McDonnell focused on the effective use of technology in the classroom, providing professional development to her colleagues within her first few years of teaching. After serving as an instructional leader, Assistant Principal, Middle School Principal, Executive Director of Technology, and Assistant Superintendent in various school districts in the region, Dr. McDonnell joined the Lower Hudson Regional Information Center as Executive Director in 2022.
Register for the Winter Virtual Event Now
Future & Past Events
Upcoming Events
NEW - POP UP EVENT! Stay Tuned!
Friday, March 13, 2026
Monday, March 16, 2026
TELL Awards
Edith Macy Conference Center · Briarcliff Manor, NY
(In Person)
Thursday, May 7 – Friday, May 8, 2026
TECH EXPO 2026
Windrose on Hudson Conference Center · Ossining, NY
(In Person)
Request For Proposals is OPEN! • Learn About Last Year's Expo • Check Out Our Recap Page!
Past Events
Friday, October 17, 2025
Open Doors – Open Minds – LHRIC Leadership Connect & TLI Kick-Off
Dr. Mandy McLean: AI as a Social Technology
October 28–30, 2025
Project-Based Learning PBL Works & NYSCATE
UTF 52 Broadway 10th Floor NYC
November 4, 2025
NYSCATE Regional Conference - Bridging Innovation and Education
Roy C Ketcham High School, Wappingers High School
November 23–25, 2025
2025 NYSCATE Annual Conference
Turning Stone Resort and Conference Center · Verona, NY
Voices of Leadership: Previous Keynotes from the Institute
TLI Events and Information Links
About TLI
Participation in the LHRIC’s Technology Leadership Institute (TLI) member-only events provides the best opportunity for continuous learning and growth in the rapidly changing landscape of educational technology. Our TLI program allows district leaders to come together to learn about, share ideas on, and discuss excellence in teaching and learning through technology. Each year, we expand our connections with international leaders, educational networks, and partners, enabling members to experience new technologies and their impact on education. TLI also offers networking opportunities with peers to explore how each leadership topic pertains to current challenges and future planning. Take a moment to review past events to appreciate the exceptional quality and depth of our programming, which goes beyond your typical leadership programs.
Participation includes unlimited registration for virtual events and an eight-seat limit per face-to-face conference, including the NYSCATE Annual conference. If you want to learn more about this program, please contact Mary Lynn Collins-Callanan, Manager of LHRIC Instructional Technology, at 914-922-3405.
