Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) and Blockchain Applications

​We will meet in the Enterprise Works building of the Research Park where there is open parking for guests and a CUMTD bus stop. Please RSVP so we know how many to expect, as lunch will be provided!

​Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) are an emerging W3C standard that could fundamentally change how we manage digital identity. Unlike traditional identity systems that depend on centralized authorities like Google, Facebook, or government databases, DIDs allow individuals and organizations to create and control their own digital identities. By anchoring verifiable credentials on the blockchain, DIDs make it possible to prove who you are, what degrees you hold, or what certifications you've earned, all without handing your personal data to a third party that can be hacked, sold, or shut down.

​Join us to dig into how DIDs actually work, why the W3C standardization matters, and what real-world use cases are emerging. We'll explore applications ranging from self-sovereign identity wallets to credential verification in education, healthcare, and decentralized governance. Whether you're a builder exploring identity layers, a professional curious about how your credentials might live on-chain, or just someone tired of managing dozens of logins and hoping there's a better way, this discussion will cover where DIDs stand today and where they're headed. No prior expertise required, just bring your curiosity and your questions.