IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference (GHTC)
Technology for the Benefit of Humanity // Colorado Schools of Mines, USA / October 22-25, 2025

Melissa Sassi

Melissa Sassi
IEEE Digital Intelligence Working Group

Topic: “DQ, a measure for determining one’s digital intelligence”

 

Abstract:

Join this session led by Melissa Sassi, Chief Penguin of IBM Z and Chair of IEEE’s Digital Intelligence Working Group, to learn about the first global standard for digital skills and readiness that was recently endorsed by the IEEE Standards Board. We know what IQ means, right? We also have a definition for EQ, thanks to Daniel Goleman. Now, the world welcomes DQ, a measure for determining one’s digital intelligence. In this session, we will take a journey through the following competencies: (1) digital citizen identity, (2) usage and screen time, (3) safety and cyberbullying, (4) cyber security, (5) emotional intelligence and empathy, (6) communication and digital footprint, (7) literacy and critical thinking, and (8) rights and privacy management. See you there!

Bio:

As IBM Z’s Chief Penguin, Melissa created her own IBM penguin title and leads Student & Entrepreneur Experience worldwide. She’s a Call for Code Judge focused on solving the world’s challenges via tech innovation. Prior to IBM, Melissa was an energy and internet access impact investor at Microsoft. As Founder & CEO of MentorNations, Melissa created a youth-led digital skills movement teaching tens of thousands of youth to code in twelve countries. She’s Chair of IEEE’s Digital Intelligence Working Group & Founding Member of Coalition for Digital Intelligence with WEF, OECD, IEEE & DQ Institute. She holds several Board positions in digital inclusion nonprofits. As a PhD candidate, she researches the digital inclusion of underserved communities. She serves on a UN Round Table for the High-Level Panel for Digital Cooperation & is an avid speaker on digital skills, tech entrepreneurship, community building, youth empowerment, imposter syndrome & personal branding.