CHICAGO - s4story -- More than 200 data, analytics, and AI executives gathered at the Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop for CDO Magazine's inaugural Chicago Leadership Summit, a high-energy event bringing together thought leaders shaping the future of data and artificial intelligence.

A Fireside Chat That Shifted Perspectives
Chandra Donelson, global data strategist and bestselling author, joined Maribeth Achterberg, Chief Information & Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of The Boldt Group, for a fireside chat titled "Breaking the Mold: Bold Leadership Lessons from the Frontlines of Data & AI."

Drawing from her career in entrepreneurship, military intelligence, and government leadership, Donelson urged attendees to rethink traditional measures of success.

"We have to change the conversation around AI and ROI," Donelson emphasized. "Historically, ROI has meant profit and loss. But with AI, the true return isn't just measured in dollars – it's measured in time. It's the capacity to deliver faster, smarter, and more effectively within the same eight-hour day. That is the ROI leaders need to start measuring."

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From the Stage to the Book Table
Beyond the stage, Donelson connected with attendees during two standing-room-only book signings for her debut children's book, The Data Detective at the Carnival. Through conversations with parents, educators, and professionals, she emphasized her mission to make data literacy approachable for children.

A Collaborative and Future-Focused Gathering
The Summit featured 40+ distinguished speakers and an agenda filled with keynote sessions, panel discussions, and focus groups. Executives representing industries from financial services and healthcare to consumer goods, manufacturing, education, and government shared insights on governance, innovation, and the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Keynote sessions included:

• McDonald's Data Leaders Show How Collaboration Drives Growth with Michelle Gansle and Wei Manfredi.
• Breaking the Mold: Bold Leadership Lessons from the Frontlines of Data & AI with Chandra Donelson and Maribeth Achterberg.
• Beyond the Algorithm: Leading the Human Side of AI Transformation with Sol Rashidi.
• Stop Being Data Driven – From the Lens of a CEO with Len Finkle.

The Summit also recognized the Top 25 Chicago Data Leaders for 2025, celebrating executives at the forefront of data governance, innovation, and AI-powered transformation.

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Building Community, Shaping the Future
Reflecting on the Summit's impact, Chandra Donelson's message resonated deeply with leaders committed to making AI more practical, accessible, and human-centered. Across sectors, participants echoed a shared focus on collaboration, trusted governance, and redefining value in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven landscape.

"Every conversation underscored the same truth," Donelson remarked. "AI isn't just about technology—it's about people, process, and problem-solving."

The event served as both a catalyst for new ideas and a powerful reminder that building the future of data and AI begins with building stronger communities.

To learn more about Chandra Donelson, her book, or to request a speaking engagement, visit www.thedatadetective.org or contact contact@thedatadetective.org.