On January 25, 2025, the Institute for Education (IFE) hosted its 10th annual West Coast Brunch, bringing together over 70 technology leaders, including Presidential Innovation Fellows (both current and alumni), members of the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), and close IFE friends. This milestone event celebrated a decade of fostering connections between Silicon Valley and Washington, DC.
Graciously welcoming the lively crowd at their beautiful Bay Area home were hosts DJ, the first U.S. Chief Data Scientist, and Devika Patil, IFE Digital Ambassador. Held outdoors in the fresh California air, the brunch provided a vibrant setting for old and new friends to reconnect and engage in meaningful conversations.
The technology movement has flourished over the past decade, and many attendees traveled across the country to be part of this special gathering. Among them were founders and members of Coding It Forward and the U.S. Digital Corps (USDC)—two organizations dedicated to empowering the next generation of technologists in government. Coding It Forward offers college students impactful 10-week fellowships within the federal government, while USDC provides recent graduates with opportunities to launch careers in public service. USDC’s motto—”to empower the next generation of technology leaders to launch careers in public service and create a more efficient, trustworthy government”—perfectly reflects the spirit of civic tech. Attendees were energized and inspired by the next wave of civic innovators.
To formally close the gathering, co-hosts DJ and Devika Patil, along with Coach Kathy Kemper, Todd Park, and Dr. Amy Geng, shared words of gratitude. Todd Park, former U.S. Chief Technology Officer, expressed deep appreciation for Coach Kemper—fondly known as the “Mayor of Civic Tech”—and IFE’s role in building a strong, supportive community over the years. Coach reinforced the importance of connection and encouraged everyone to continue championing the cause. DJ concluded by reflecting on the lasting impact of public service, noting that once someone has served in government, it becomes a part of them. He urged attendees to engage with one another, learn about each other’s work, and find ways to collaborate in advancing civic tech.
Guests enjoyed a delicious taco bar featuring spicy Korean beef, chicken, and veggie tacos with fresh corn tortillas, accompanied by rice and beans, red and green salsas, handmade guacamole, lime slices, and an array of locally sourced sides.
This year’s brunch marked a decade of IFE’s commitment to supporting the tech community through soft diplomacy. While the morning began with overcast skies, the warmth of conversation and camaraderie shone through—soon enough, the fog lifted, revealing a beautiful, sunlit California afternoon.
Contributed by IFE Intern Katie Tcheng
