Denver CIO Embraces AI: Updated Role, New Duties

Published Date : 30/09/2025 

Summa Nallapati, CIO for the city and county of Denver since 2023, is now the chief artificial intelligence and information officer (CAIO). This new role aims to position Denver as a leader in AI technology and governance. 

The many opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) are now a central focus for Denver’s chief information officer (CIO). Suma Nallapati, who has been in her role since 2023, has taken on a new title: chief AI and information officer (CAIO) for the city and county of Denver.

Nallapati’s expanded role will involve developing and implementing an AI strategy, including policies around governance and equity. She will also coordinate various AI projects and tools across city departments. This move is part of Mayor Mike Johnston’s vision to position Denver as the nation’s most forward-thinking AI city.

“Denver is positioning itself as the nation’s most forward-thinking AI city,” Mayor Mike Johnston said in a statement. “Suma has been a visionary leader in technology, and with this expanded role, she will ensure that AI is not only effective but also ethical, inclusive, and deeply human-centered. This is about more than just implementing technology; it’s about building public trust, closing opportunity gaps, and ensuring every Denverite has a voice in the future we’re building.”

Earlier this year, Denver issued a request for proposals (RFP) to find qualified AI vendors that can help improve both city operations and the resident experience. “Having a curated, responsive, and responsible AI vendor bench allows the city to accelerate the time-to-value for AI projects, reducing procurement time and overhead costs. It also fosters innovation and ensures strategic alignment with the city and mayor's goals,” Nallapati told Government Technology.

Since Nallapati assumed the CIO role in Denver, the city has launched several AI-centered projects. One notable project is Sunny, a multilingual AI chatbot that assists residents. City and county staff also now have access to Microsoft Copilot Chat, a secure AI assistant.

“AI is no longer just a tool—it’s a core capability for a more responsive, resilient, and resident-focused government,” Nallapati said in a statement. “I am honored to lead this next chapter as we responsibly scale AI to improve lives, close equity gaps, and deliver smarter public services for every Denverite.”

Denver’s commitment to AI is not just about technological advancement but also about ensuring that these technologies are used ethically and inclusively. The city’s approach emphasizes the importance of public trust and the need to address the digital divide, ensuring that all residents benefit from these innovations. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the new title of Summa Nallapati in Denver?

A: Summa Nallapati's new title is chief artificial intelligence and information officer (CAIO) for the city and county of Denver.

Q: What are the main responsibilities of the new CAIO role?

A: The CAIO role involves developing and implementing an AI strategy, including policies around governance and equity, and coordinating various AI projects and tools across city departments.

Q: How does Mayor Mike Johnston view the new CAIO role?

A: Mayor Mike Johnston sees the new CAIO role as a way to position Denver as a leader in AI, ensuring that AI is effective, ethical, inclusive, and human-centered.

Q: What AI projects has Denver launched under Nallapati's leadership?

A: Denver has launched several AI projects, including Sunny, a multilingual AI chatbot, and Microsoft Copilot Chat, a secure AI assistant for city and county staff.

Q: What is the broader goal of Denver's AI initiatives?

A: The broader goal of Denver's AI initiatives is to improve public services, close equity gaps, and ensure that AI is used ethically and inclusively, with a focus on building public trust. 

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