I am thrilled to connect with you as we eagerly anticipate our signature event of the year, Ascend 2025. Our 35th year as the premier Oracle users group in the world, this event promises to be a remarkable occasion, showcasing the extraordinary spirit and expertise of our community.

This year, we are proud to announce that 40% of the accepted presentations will be delivered by our talented users — an outstanding achievement! We are equally excited to welcome 27 Oracle Aces who will contribute their invaluable insights. Additionally, we have an impressive lineup of 45 sessions dedicated to exploring the dynamic field of AI.

Of special note, 34% of our presenters will be taking the Ascend stage for the first time. This is truly awesome and a testament to the fresh and diverse perspectives within our community!

It's important to highlight the tremendous amount of work that goes into planning such a large - scale conference. These events require years of meticulous planning. As an update, the Board recently had its initial discussions to begin planning and RFP submissions for Ascend 2027.

On behalf of the organization, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of our volunteers. Your dedication and hard work are the backbone of our success. I look forward to seeing everyone in person and celebrating our joint achievements.

Thank you for your continuous support and enthusiasm. Together, let’s make Ascend 2025 an unforgettable experience!

Warm regards,
Brian Pellegrin, OATUG President