Dear OATUG Members, Friends, and Oracle Community,
As I reflect on Ascend 2025, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and pride. This year, we welcomed 1,400 attendees—including nearly 200 joining us virtually—from across the Oracle community. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a long-time supporter, your energy, engagement, and willingness to share truly set this event apart.
Throughout the conference, so many of you came up to me and said in your own way, “this conference is different.” And you’re absolutely right—Ascend is unique because it is “by users, for users.” We gather not just to learn, but to connect, collaborate, and build a stronger, more supportive community. It’s this spirit that makes Ascend unlike any other event.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Laura Guerin, Mike Jones, and every member of the OATUG staff. Pulling off an event of this size is no small feat—it takes countless hours behind the scenes, with late nights and weekends devoted to making Ascend a success. I am grateful to have a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to ensure every attendee has an exceptional experience.
Mark your calendars for Ascend 2026! We are returning to Orlando, Florida, June 8-11, at the Caribe Royale! I can’t wait to see everyone there as we continue to raise the bar for our community. And planning for Ascend 2027 has even begun!
I must also express my gratitude to our speakers—257 strong this year—including an inspiring number of first-time presenters (a record increase!). Your willingness to stand up and share your knowledge embodies the heart of OATUG. Without your contributions, Ascend would not be the outstanding learning event it is today.
A sincere thank you as well to all our colleagues from Oracle who presented, shared insights, and invested in our collective success. With 49 Oracle presenters, you enabled us to offer targeted, practical content for all Oracle users.
To all who participated—members and nonmembers alike—thank you for making Ascend 2025 a genuine success. I invite you to stay connected, engaged, and excited for what’s next. Together, we will keep building a conference—and a community—that is truly different.
With gratitude,
Brian Pellegrin
President, OATUG