We are pleased to announce that Nancy S. Kirkpatrick, JD, MS, will be the closing keynote speaker at this year’s virtual NISO Plus Global/Online conference (September 16–17).

Kirkpatrick is the next Dean of Libraries at Smith College, where she will bring her passion for inclusive leadership, strategic thinking, and library innovation to one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts colleges. Nancy brings over two decades of leadership in academic libraries and nonprofit organizations. Prior to Smith, she served as Dean of Libraries at Florida International University and as Executive Director and CEO of OhioNet, where she led initiatives in organizational transformation, equity, and innovation. A lawyer-turned-librarian, she holds a JD and an MS in library science, and brings a unique blend of legal, academic, and nonprofit experience to her work. A frequent national speaker, Nancy is known for her ability to bridge complex systems thinking with grounded, people-centered practice.

“This year’s NISO Plus Global/Online program focuses on critical issues like cybersecurity, threats to research integrity, and the ethical use of AI—challenges at the forefront of scholarly communications today,” said Todd Carpenter, NISO Executive Director. “As we seek new ways to navigate these complex issues together, we’re eager to hear Nancy’s perspective on leadership and building community during uncertain times.”

Nancy will give her talk on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 17. Thanks to our generous sponsors——Cadmore Media, figshare, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Chemical Society, Bowker, Impelsys, OpenAthens, Project MUSE, and Silverchair —tickets for the virtual conference are affordable, starting at just $49 for students, and discounts are available for NISO members, groups, retirees, and participants residing in LMIC countries. Reserve your place now for early bird rates, good through August 15!


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