AI Policy & Practice Forum

Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in the systems that shape institutions, decision-making, and public life. Conversations about its development and governance are advancing rapidly across academia, government, and industry, but often without meaningful synthesis across these areas.

This full-day forum presented by the Rockefeller Institute and the University at Albany’s AI & Society Research Center is designed to engage across those domains. Featuring a curated program of panel discussions, research presentations, and networking opportunities, the event brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working on AI in health, education, governance, and ethics for an engaging, action-guiding discussion.

The program is designed to strengthen connections between research, policy, and implementation, supporting more coherent and effective approaches to how AI is developed, governed, and used.

Click here for more info and to register.

Local Government Lab 2026

The Local Government Lab is an annual one-day gathering of local government researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The event is a showcase of both academic and applied research, policy, and practice on state and local governance issues.

This year’s event will focus on the infrastructure needs of municipal governments. What are the challenges and opportunities that localities are facing in terms of building, maintaining, and financing the essential investments in physical assets—such as roads, water and waste systems, broadband, and public facilities—that are required for their community’s economic growth, safety, and quality of life? How are local governments engaging in prioritization, decision-making, funding, and implementation of critical infrastructure needs? To what degree are state and federal policies successfully supporting, or not, the essential services provided by localities?

Click here for more info and to view the call for presentation proposals.