Technology touches everyone—and Converge is the event where Stanford’s IT professionals, staff, and faculty come together to shape its future at Stanford. 

The organizers of the IT Unconference and Cybersecurity & Privacy Festival have joined forces to create a one-day experience that will bring together learners and experts to explore how technology connects us, supports our work, and drives innovation. Whether you’re deeply technical or tech-curious, this event is designed for you.

What happened to CyberFest and the IT Unconference?

After 14 years of the IT Unconference and six years of CyberFest, the organizers teamed up to reimagine something new—a single, community-powered event. This means the two separate annual events will now be one, not only elevating the attendee experience but also streamlining planning efforts and reducing costs. We also hope this "convergence" preserves the best of both original events: meaningful connections, shared learning, and uncovering technology-driven opportunities to support Stanford’s mission.

Keynotes and panel discussions will spotlight this year’s theme, “Champion a Secure Future,” with a strong focus on cybersecurity and privacy. We hope to spark a sense of ownership across the community when it comes to protecting their data, especially as new technologies continue to emerge.

Additionally, the “unconference,” agenda-creation format will live on as breakout session topics can be proposed by event participants.

Why "Converge"?

As the name suggests, Converge is where connection happens. It’s an opportunity for IT professionals, staff, and faculty to come together with colleagues, grow their network, share expertise, and have some fun.

Who can attend?

Converge is primarily for Stanford IT professionals, staff, and faculty. But if you’re a Stanford University, Stanford Health Care or SLAC community member with an interest in cybersecurity, privacy, or technology, we strongly encourage you to attend!

When and where?

The inaugural Stanford Converge event will take place Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, at the School of Medicine’s Li Ka Shing Center for Learning and Knowledge and over Zoom.

What is the theme of this year’s Converge?

The theme is "Champion a Secure Future," with a focus on fostering a culture of curiosity, responsibility, and innovation.

The event will feature keynote speakers on cybersecurity and privacy; however, breakout sessions on any topic of interest to the community are welcome.

Who can propose an idea or topic for a session?

Anyone in the Stanford IT community or cybersecurity/privacy space can submit a session topic.

You help shape the agenda by proposing topics that are meaningful to you, whether they are highly technical or completely non-technical. You might propose a session on remote work, pricing a new service, project management strategies, or creative ways to recruit top talent (just to name a few possibilities). In true “unconference” style, all sessions will be accepted.

The organizers will help you find a space and resources to hold your session but won’t decide who gets to present and who doesn't.

With this format, we hope to enable discussion topics that are relevant to the community at the time of the event.

How do I submit a session proposal?

To submit a session proposal idea, complete the session proposal form.

Can a remote attendee facilitate a session?

Yes! We ask that remote presenters coordinate with a colleague or Converge volunteer to help set up and launch the Zoom session in the room.