Amelia Vance is the Founder and President of the Public Interest Privacy Center, a US nonprofit organization focused exclusively on child and student privacy. Amelia also teaches privacy law and EU data protection at William & Mary Law School in Virginia (since 2022), and previously taught at Penn State Law.
For over a decade, Amelia has partnered with youth, parents, schools, companies, policymakers, and advocates to ensure privacy safeguards are ethical, equitable, and practical for those on the ground. Her career is centered on navigating the intricate interplay between legal mandates, technological capabilities, ethical considerations, and implementation challenges related to ensuring the responsible use of child and student data. Whether teaching, crafting resources that translate complex policies into actionable tools, or facilitating conversations between stakeholders, her goal is always to empower individuals with knowledge and support evidence-based decision-making.
Amelia is a regular speaker at privacy and education conferences in the US and abroad, has testified before the US Congress and several state legislatures, and has presented at events hosted by the US Department of Education and the Federal Trade Commission. She was honored to participate in the OECD informal expert working group (2018-2021) contributing to the updated Recommendation on Children in the Digital Environment.
Amelia has published over 50 resources on child and student privacy, including co-authoring the chapter “A Practical Guide to Complying with the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act” in the International Association of Privacy Professionals’ textbook on Children’s Privacy and Safety; “Student Privacy’s History of Unintended Consequences” in the Seton Hall Legislative Journal; PIPC’s ongoing series on “Fixing FERPA;” Teaching privacy and ethical guardrails for the AI imperative in education” for the New South Wales Department of Education in Australia; and “The Privacy and Equity Implications of Using Self-Harm Monitoring Technologies: Recommendations for Schools.” She is also regularly cited in the press.
Amelia previously led child and student privacy programs at the Future of Privacy Forum (FPF), the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE), and AASA, the School Superintendents Association.
Amelia is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the International Association of Privacy Professionals.
Sessions in which Amelia Vance participates
Wednesday 14 May, 2025
During this workshop our presenters will each highlight some of the policy recommendations co-created by a group of experts with UNICEF about data governance for EdTech used in schools as part of the UNICEF data governance for children project. We will then divide the participants into groups to provide feedback on the recommendations for the different stakeholders ...
Sessions in which Amelia Vance attends
Monday 12 May, 2025
Discussions surrounding the interplay of AI and Data Protection Laws will reveal how academics and practitioners from around the world manage the intersectionality of these laws. How do data protection laws and emerging AI intersect, and how do they complement each other? If you’re a privacy professional, legal expert, AI developer, or policymaker, this is your must-attend session, as it will feature professionals from Google, EDRI, DG Justice, a...
Generative AI development and deployment is exploding, but the recent EDPB Opinion 28/2024 and early enforcement actions (notably the fine against OpenAI by the Garante in Italy) signal that compliance with the GDPR must be taken seriously from the outset. Against this backdrop, our panel will explore how to build trust and avoid pitfalls when developing and deploying LLMs in Europe. We’ll examine the evolving legal landscape—and whether it leaves enough room for meaningful innovation....
This panel will explore the new era of data governance, emphasising the importance of building simplified programs that inspire trust. It will take a holistic approach to data, privacy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, incorporating global laws, regulations, and emerging trends. The discussion will highlight the secular nature of global laws, data sovereignty, restrictions on data transfers, and data minimization.
This session will explore how to design data spaces that aren’t just legally compliant but also fundamentally structured around privacy, security, and trust. By embedding compliance in the core of data infrastructure design, we can move beyond reactive measures and create environments that foster confidence and cooperation. Key questions
As AI usage seems to proliferate, international regulations may be the way to go to develop cross-border compliance and cooperation. Featuring representatives from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as renowned global think tanks, this session will discuss how organizations can effectively align themselves with international regulations to achieve convergence and interoperability. ...
Join us for a thought-provoking session on the intersection of technical and ethical considerations in the world of satellite technology. As these systems continue to expand with immense potential, there is a growing need to protect and respect privacy rights in an interconnected space environment. The panel will present real-world case studies and discuss emerging privacy solutions.
This remarkable session brings together leading experts from Google, Microsoft, the German Data Protection Authority, the European AI Agency, and the Italian State Secretary to discuss how organizations and governments can navigate AI risks while ensuring compliance. From balancing innovation with regulation to addressing ethical concerns, this discussion will provide critical insights into the future of AI governance.
The rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the digital landscape, introducing both opportunities and challenges for consumer autonomy and data protection. AI has the potential to deliver highly relevant services, enhancing consumer engagement and satisfaction, but it can also generate outputs that may be misleading, inaccurate, or manipulative, potentially exacerbating consumer vulnerabilities and reducing consumer agency.
This session brings together industry leaders and regulators to explore the essential aspects of designing compliant AI training models. In the discussion, panelists will provide a comprehensive overview of the intersection between regulatory requirements and innovative AI practices, offering practical advice and actionable insights for professionals in the field. Key topics include:
As society becomes increasingly digital, policy-makers and researchers face the complex challenge of leveraging data and algorithms to tackle critical issues in social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and privacy. At the same time, evolving data access regulations, such as those introduced by the Digital Services Act (DSA), pose significant barriers to researchers striving for transparent and equitable access to platform data. This panel brin...
AI systems are becoming more integrated into critical decision-making processes, which makes questions of liability and accountability more pressing than ever. If an AI-based decision goes wrong, who is responsible? This session will unite experts from Meta, Italian Institute for Privacy and Data Valorisation, AI Law Tech Institute, SGS, and CNPD to explore the evolving frameworks for AI liability and the role of certification in building respons...
We will inaugurate the fourth edition of the Privacy Symposium at the Official Welcome Reception. This event marks the beginning of a week rich in insightful discussions and open exchange, set in the inspiring atmosphere of Venice. Guests will have the opportunity to admire the remarkable works of Tintoretto, one of the city’s most celebrated painters, while connecting with professionals from diverse backgrounds and engaging in fruitful discussions. The evening will be enriched by...
Tuesday 13 May, 2025
The session will begin with the presentation of research work on the evaluation of the benefits of compliance (combining costs, returns, gains of compliance analysis). The objective will be then to discuss on the KPIs that can be used to measure the positive returns of compliance by incorporating the perspectives of stakeholders who advocate, monitor, implement, control, or finance compliance actions.
This exclusive 2-hour session equips regulators with essential AI knowledge for effective oversight. A seasoned AI-focused leader and two technical experts will offer concise explanations of fundamental concepts—from how AI processes data (tokenization, vectorization) to advanced applications (transformers, retrieval-augmented generation, agents). Attendees will explore synthetic data’s privacy implications, AI/ML security threats (e.g., data poi...
The purpose of the panel is to discuss transparency requirements in the digital data economy, and its benefits. The discussion will focus on the different recipients of transparency (individuals, companies, regulators), the different means (notices, company reporting, certification, KPIs) and how it impacts sustainability/ data responsibility in the age of AI.
In this thought-provoking session, the panel will dive into the intriguing world of neuro privacy. As breakthroughs in neuroscience offer unprecedented insights into the human brain, important ethical questions arise regarding the collection, use, and potential misuse of neural data. The speakers will explore the intersection between neuroscience, privacy, and fundamental human rights, while focusing on the emerging challenges and potential solut...
Modern vehicles are more than just simple transportation; they are data hubs constantly collecting and transmitting information. From GPS tracking and in-car entertainment systems to AI-powered assistance, connected cars are revolutionizing the concept of mobility. The exceptional panel of this session will explore the fine line between convenience and surveillance, geolocation tracking, and how regulations are adapting.
This panel will discuss emergent technologies that may reduce AI risks and possible regulatory responses to such technology.
It is people, not laws, that drive privacy. What about privacy makes it universal across the world and throughout history? How do non-Western societies demonstrate how individuals, communities and civilizations instinctively cherish privacy? How did the Ancient Romans solve universal and timeless privacy problems around maintaining and verifying identity? In this session of the “Philosophy of Privacy” stream, hear ...
From GDPR to emerging AI regulations, organizations must navigate complex frameworks while ensuring seamless data flows across borders. This session will bring together experts to discuss practical strategies for overcoming regulatory conflicts, enabling responsible data practices, and fostering global cooperation. Key questions
The transformative power of data could drive positive social impact and advance humanitarian causes. This session will explore inspiring use cases of data processing for good. From using data analytics for disaster response to studying insights for sustainable development goals, the speakers of this panel will explore innovative projects that demonstrate how data can be used for the greater good.
Personal data defines identity. However, in a world where surveillance is invisible, data is power, and sharing is an everyday activity, does true privacy still exist? And if we lose it, do we also lose something essential about ourselves? This session will bring together experts to explore the philosophical and practical implications around the nature of privacy and what it truly means for our digital selves, fund...
After a productive day of engaging sessions, what better way to refresh than by enjoying a traditional Aperol Spritz at the Privacy Professionals’ Meet-up? Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation and connection over this iconic Italian cocktail. It’s a unique opportunity to get to know other participants of the Privacy Symposium, while enjoying a taste of the dolce vita in true Venetian style.
Wednesday 14 May, 2025
As cases regarding restrictions on freedom of expression seem to intensify, the question of democracy and exposure to opposing opinions rises to the forefront. Attendees at this session will hear perspectives from representatives of fundamental rights agencies and Council of Europe as well as officials from the US Department of Justice and UN Human Rights Council. The panel will provide a full picture of how we can address restrictions on freedom...
This session promises to dive deep into the real-world impact of data anonymization and synthetic data, exploring how these techniques are being used to protect privacy in different industries. Experts of the panel will break down the myths and realities of these privacy-enhancing technologies, tackling their benefits, limitations, and regulatory challenges head-on. Key questions&nbsp...
This panel will explore emerging Data Security and Privacy Risks with respect to Data Portability and potential Privacy tradeoffs in the EU’s Digital Package. The panel will address whether more guidance or clarification is needed for such intersecting obligations and how Privacy protection is to be balanced with other rights and legal obligations.
The right to transparent, free, unbiased and pluralistic information is a pillar in democratic societies, allowing citizens to think critically and challenge their own perspectives before making decisions and judgements. With insights from academics and practitioners, this panel promises to be an interesting debate at the intersection of freedom of expression, democracy and data regulation.
Focusing on the legal situation of freedom of expression regarding data regulation, this panel session welcomes high-level practitioners and academics of the field. Referring to specific pillars of law, this debate promises to clearly outline the place of freedom of expression in the current legal climate. Key questions
Age assurance is a growing requirement for online safety, but one that comes with clear interdependencies with data protection. Requirements for highly effective age assurance have to be considered alongside data minimisation requirements under the GDPR. The limitations of working in silos must be overcome, and one way of doing so is via a multistakeholder dialogue that brings data protection regulators, safety regulators, academics, companies an...
Growing up in the digital age means that children are exposed to data collection before they even learn to read. This insightful session explores ways in which a safer online space can be created for the next generations, and how to enforce meaningful protection, while balancing innovation with responsibility and empowering young users to navigate the internet safely. Key questions
Marking the halfway point of the conference, have a relaxing evening at the Privacy Professionals’ Meet-up. Enjoy a refreshing spritz while engaging with other privacy experts. After a productive day of sessions, this is an excellent occasion to meet with other participants and speakers, resume discussions, and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Thursday 15 May, 2025
Children have increasing access to the internet, which also exposes them to significant risks. The Regulation on Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) represents a crucial step in addressing these dangers, aiming to protect children from online exploitation while respecting their privacy rights. This session will explore the current and upcoming regulations, examining their implications for fundamental rights and the ...
In pursuit of medical breakthroughs, data is considered a goldmine. At the same time, accessing medical data should not come at the expense of crossing legal and ethical lines. This session will tackle one of the most important issues in medical research today: the lawful use of patient data for secondary purposes like advancing scientific discovery and healthcare innovation. The distinguished panel of this session will explore the complex questi...
If you are interested in how to turn the principle of privacy into marketing practices that not only comply with the law but also resonate with the audience, then this session is for you. The panel will explore how to build privacy-first marketing strategies that respect consumer data while still driving engagement and delivering results. Key questions
In humanitarian crises, every bit of information can be a lifeline for those in need, which makes data a vital factor in providing food, shelter, and basic human needs. There is a real person behind every dot and dash of data. This brings great responsibility! DP can is a life and death matt...
Patients trust healthcare providers with their most sensitive data, but are their rights truly being upheld in practice? From the right to access medical records to the challenge of data portability and consent management, ensuring compliance becomes not only a legal requirement but also an ethical responsibility. This session tackles the real-world struggles of ensuring data subjects’ rights in the healthcare system and explores practical soluti...
This session will take a deep dive into the evolving process of assessing AI’s impact on fundamental rights, transitioning from traditional Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA) to the Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment (FRAIA). The speakers will explore how to practically apply these assessments in AI development and deployment, ensuring that privacy and human rights remain at the forefront.
The panel seeks to provide a holistic perspective on the legitimate pursuit of own business purposes for data holders like large-scale (cloud) service providers and other processors with a focus on GDPR and also reflecting on the UK and US point of view. The discussion would cover the differentiation between the controlle...
This session will cover the legal implications and real-world use cases of anonymization, pseudonymization, and synthetic data. From enabling secure data sharing for research and ensuring compliance in clinical trials, the panel will dive into how some techniques can help meet privacy requirements while still fostering scientific progress. Key questions
We must see bias out that door. This session dives into the challenges of mitigating bias, ensuring fairness and explainability by design. Learn how to approach fairer and more inclusive models that prioritise ethics and accountability.
The Privacy Symposium is delighted to invite you to a unique musical experience on Thursday, 15 May at 6:30 PM, where the Quartetto Pegreffi will take the audience on a musical journey inspired by Venice’s atmosphere. The concert will present a selection of pieces ranging from refined baroque elegance to rich impressionistic colours. The programme reflects the ambience and charm of the surroundings, offering a moment of pause and appreciation in the midst of the Privacy Symposium....
Friday 16 May, 2025
This unique session explores the evolving responsibilities of DPOs in the field of AI governance, focusing on the challenges, ethical dilemmas, and opportunities that come with overseeing AI systems that may impact personal data. Join the panel for a forward-thinking discussion about how DPOs can steer the future of AI governance while staying true to their core mission of data protection.
Data protection is woven into the fabric of urban development. Drawing on experiences from cities like Marseille and Madrid, the speakers of this session will highlight key lessons, successful strategies, best practices, and accountability measures for maintaining data privacy and regulatory compliance at a city-wide level. They will also explore how smart technologies can transform the public sector in meaningful ways.