Cybersecurity Conference at GW
Be a part of the discussion on February 27. This dynamic conference, co-sponsored by GW’s College of Professional Studies and the Cyber Guild, brings together leading voices from government, industry, and academia to explore innovative solutions to today’s most critical cybersecurity challenges. Dive into compelling discussions on securing critical infrastructure, advancing emerging technologies, preparing a future-ready workforce, and strengthening resilience against evolving threats.
Cybersecurity, Stronger Together: Public-Private Partnership Day
Thursday, February 27th, 2025
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
The George Washington University | Jack Morton Auditorium
805 21st Street NW | Washington, DC 20052
REGISTER TODAY!
The event will also provide timely insights into how the priorities of the new presidential administration will shape cybersecurity policy and foster public-private collaboration. Don’t miss this opportunity to network with trailblazers, share ideas, and contribute to the vital mission of protecting our digital future.
Co-sponsored by GW’s College of Professional Studies and The Cyber Guild
"Cybersecurity is not just a challenge; it's a shared responsibility. This conference embodies the spirit of collaboration, bringing together brilliant minds from government, industry, and academia to tackle our most pressing cyber threats. I’m thrilled to see GW’s College of Professional Studies and The Cyber Guild unite to drive innovative solutions and shape the future of cybersecurity policy and practice."
Dr. Liesl Riddle Dean, College of Professional Studies, The George Washington University
"In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity demands collective action and innovative thinking. This conference is a testament to the power of collaboration, uniting leaders from government, industry, and academia to address critical challenges and uncover transformative solutions. Together, we are shaping a stronger, more secure digital future."
Debbie Sallis, Founding Executive Director, The Cyber Guild Foundation Founder, Coaching Conversations
College of Professional Studies Leadership
Dr. Liesl Riddle
Dean, College of Professional Studies
The George Washington University
- Read Dr. Liesl Riddle's Bio
Liesl Riddle, Ph.D., is the dean of George Washington University's College of Professional Studies (CPS) and an associate professor of international business and international affairs. She oversees innovative programs designed to empower students in key industries and leads schools and centers such as the Graduate School of Political Management and the Cyber Academy. Previously, she served as vice dean for strategy at GW’s School of Business, where she launched top-ranked online programs and spearheaded significant enrollment growth. A renowned scholar, Dr. Riddle’s research focuses on diasporas' roles in economic development and international entrepreneurship, with numerous publications and consulting engagements worldwide.
Prof. Connie Peterson Uthoff
Program Director, Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management
- Read Connie Peterson Uthoff's Bio
Connie Peterson Uthoff is the program director of the Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management master's degree program at the College of Professional Studies at the George Washington University. She is an instructor in the program and is the author of the book Cyber Intelligence: Actors, Policies and Practices. She writes and lectures extensively in areas related to cybersecurity, cyber intelligence and risk, with a focus on emerging technologies.
Dr. Scott J. White
Program Director, Cybersecurity BPS Program
- Read Dr. Scott J. White's Bio
Dr. Scott J. White is an Associate Professor and Director of the Cybersecurity Program and Cyber Academy. He holds a Queen’s Commission and was an Officer with the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command. In addition, following his doctoral studies, Dr. White was an Officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.
In 2010, Dr. White joined MONAD Security Audit Systems as an Associate Consultant. Dr. White has consulted with a variety of law enforcement agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada.
The Cyber Guild Leadership
Debbie Sallis
Founding Executive Director, The Cyber Guild Foundation
Founder, Coaching Conversations
- Read Debbie Sallis's Bio
Debbie is the Founding Executive Director of The Cyber Guild Foundation, established in 2020 in the belief that the world will be more secure where people are empowered to connect through technology. A global leadership career of over 15 years, Debbie was the youngest female executive appointment in one of the world's leading defense organizations. A successful career paved the way to focus on work that inspires leaders to build a legacy that empowers others.
Teresa Shea
Co-Chair, The Cyber Guild Foundation
President, Oplnet LLC
- Read Teresa Shea's Bio
Teresa Shea, a prominent figure in Intelligence and National Defense, is the President of Oplnet, LLC. She is an experienced senior executive, with extensive experience in both corporate and government environments. Teresa also serves as an independent board director and advisor for several companies and non-profits. She co-chairs the board for the Cyber Guild, a non-profit dedicated to greater diversity at all levels in cybersecurity.
Bryan Ware
Co-Chair, The Cyber Guild Foundation
- Read Bryan Ware's Bio
Bryan Ware is a highly regarded technology leader and innovator, having started companies, patented technologies, raised venture capital and private equity, and served executive roles in government. Bryan is the Founder and CEO of GraySpace Technology, a technology company serving the national security community. He was previously the Chief Development Officer of ZeroFox, following their acquisition of LookingGlass Cyber Solutions, a leading cyber intelligence product company, where he was the Chief Executive Officer. He also co-chairs the board for The Cyber Guild, a national non-profit seeking to increase diversity in cybersecurity.
Conference Schedule
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Registration & Networking Breakfast
Networking and refreshments will be provided on the second floor of the Media and Public Affairs (MPA) Building.
9:00 AM - 9:20 AM | Welcome Remarks
- Welcome remarks and introduction from Dr. Liesl Riddle, CPS Dean
- Welcome remarks from Debbie Sallis, Founding Executive Director, The Cyber Guild Foundation
9:20 AM - 9:43 AM | Opening Keynote
- Amy Gilliland, CEO, GDIT
- Introduction from Connie Uthoff, Program Director, CPS Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management Program
9:43 - 10:45 AM | Panel 1
Perched on the Edge of Chaos - The Future of National Cybersecurity and Resilience in 2025 and Beyond
10:45 AM - 11:05 AM | Coffee Break
Networking and refreshments will be provided on the second floor of the Media and Public Affairs (MPA) Building.
11:05 AM - 12:15 PM | Panel 2
Strengthening Cybersecurity through Innovation, Collaboration, and Resilience: Redefining Information Sharing as a Critical Strength
12:15 PM - 12:30 PM | Closing Remarks
Closing Remarks by Dr. John Lach, Dean, School of Engineering and Applied Science, George Washington University
Perched on the Edge of Chaos - The Future of National Cybersecurity and Resilience in 2025 and Beyond
National Security Leaders made headlines in 2024 warning of societal chaos and existential public safety risk posed by a wide range of cyber attacks and exploitations within U.S, critical infrastructure systems, including the power, communications, water, and other life-essential services by global adversaries. The attacks, marked by embedded malware and infiltration of connected, automated technologies, will persist and even expand in 2025 and beyond.
At the same time, our Nation continues to experience gaps and shortfalls in the expertise, education, and training of a skilled workforce both in the public and private sector needed to defend the Homeland and to enhance both cyber security and safety across our economy.
Esteemed leaders and cybersecurity thought leaders explore:
- Importance of the US expanding national protections for cybersecurity and safety
- Actionable strategies for public-private partnerships and workforce development programs to strengthen collective preparedness and response capabilities
- Recommendations for the new presidential administration to shape a unified approach to build a more secure and resilient cyber defense posture.
Introduction: Dr. Scott J. White, Program Director, Cybersecurity BPS Program; Associate Professor
Moderator: Mark Montgomery, Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies
Speakers:
- Morgan Adamski, Executive Director of USCYBERCOM;
- Matt Hayden, VP of Cyber Client Engagement, General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT); CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member;
- Ali King, VP Government Affairs, Forescout;
- Michael Mc Laughlin, Co-Leader, Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Practice Group and Principal Policy Advisor, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC;
- Lucian Niemeyer, CEO, Building Cyber Security.
Strengthening Cybersecurity through Innovation, Collaboration, and Resilience: Redefining Information Sharing as a Critical Strength
The speed of technological change, and emerging innovations reshape industries matched only by the nature of the threats. Effective resilience and response require enhanced information sharing, collaboration, and a unified commitment to strengthening the cyber ecosystem.
A powerhouse of experts explore how emerging technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning demands greater information sharing for greater resilience to strengthen the ecosystem:
- How emerging technologies are impacting cybersecurity strategies;
- Scenarios were greater information sharing would drive greater resilience and rapid response;
- Collaborative approaches to harness technologies whilst balancing innovation with security, privacy, and ethical considerations.
Introduction: Jose Carlos Linares, CEO, IG Digital; CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
Moderator: Peter Eck, Associate Partner, Cybersecurity Service, IBM Consulting; CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
Speakers:
- Michael Matechak, Managing Partner, Diatonic Consulting;
- Scott Smith, Principal, Government & Public Sector - Cybersecurity Technology Consulting Practice Lead at Ernst & Young (EY); CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member.
Selected Conference Speakers
Peter Eck
Associate Partner, Cybersecurity Service, IBM Consulting; CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
- Read Peter Eck's Bio
Peter Eck is an Associate Partner at IBM, where he manages large, complex engagements for IBM Cybersecurity Services, leveraging over 15 years of IT industry experience. With expertise in strategic planning, program management, and service delivery, he focuses on driving performance, growth, and profitability by aligning IT solutions with client objectives. Peter holds a Master of Science in Management of IT from the University of Virginia's McIntire School of Commerce and has earned multiple awards, including the IBM Excellence and Eminence Award.
Matt Hayden
VP of Cyber Client Engagement, General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT); CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
- Read Matt Hayden's Bio
Matt Hayden is Vice President of Cyber and Emerging Threats at GDIT, where he drives cyber growth strategies, fosters relationships with industry partners and government leaders, and advances the company’s cyber thought leadership. With over 25 years of experience in emerging technology and cyber policy, he previously served as Assistant Secretary for Cyber, Infrastructure, Risk, and Resilience Policy at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, leading initiatives to strengthen the global cyber ecosystem and reduce national risks.
Mr. Hayden also held senior roles at DHS, including Senior Advisor to the Director of CISA and Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Private Sector, where he enhanced public-private partnerships to safeguard critical infrastructure from cyber and physical threats.
Cynthia Kaiser
Deputy Assistant Director,
FBI Cyber Division
- Read Cynthia Kaiser's Bio
Cynthia Kaiser is a Deputy Assistant Director with the FBI Cyber Division, where she leads the FBI’s cyber threat intelligence, cyber policy, and cyber partner engagement efforts. Cynthia has covered cyber, technology, and counterintelligence issues for over 17 years for the FBI; served as a PDB Briefer in two presidential administrations; and has led FBI cyber threat analysis and served as an FBI election lead since 2017. In these roles, she has reshaped FBI information sharing and collaboration with the private sector and federal, state, and local government officials to be robust, proactive, and aimed at imposing risks and consequences on malicious cyber actors.
Alison King
VP Government Affairs,
Forescout
- Read Alison King's Bio
Alison King is Vice President of Government Affairs at Forescout, a Senior Fellow at Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security, and an Advisory Board Member for the Technology Advancement Center (TAC), formerly MISI.
Dr. John Lach
Dean, School of Engineering & Applied Science, George Washington University
- Read John Lach's Bio
John Lach is the dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science. He began the role in August 2019. Dr. Lach joined SEAS from the University of Virginia, where he served most recently as the director of cross-cutting initiatives at the university’s School of Engineering and Applied Science and as a professor of electrical and computer engineering in the Charles L. Brown Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He previously served as the chair of the department. He is associate director for Translational Research for the NSF Engineering Research Center (ERC) for Advanced Self-Powered Systems of Integrated Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST).
Jose Carlos Linares
CEO, IG Digital; CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
- Read Jose Carlos Linares's Bio
Jose Carlos Linares is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of expertise in IT, project management, and business strategy. As the CEO of IG DIGITAL, a government contracting firm, he leads the development of innovative solutions, including Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Human-Centered AI services, and Dell Infrastructure Solutions tailored to the needs of federal government agencies. Mr. Linares holds a BS in Systems Engineering, an MBA in Marketing, and an MS in Communications Technology, along with prestigious certifications such as the Stanford Certified Project Management (SCPM), the Certificate in Business Excellence (CIBE) from Columbia, and the Advanced Certificate for Executives (ACE) in Management Innovation and Technology from MIT.
Michael Matechak
Managing Partner,
Diatonic Consulting
- Read Michael Matechak's Bio
Technology Executive with 25+ years of demonstrated success in delivering IT strategy, business intelligence, geospatial, and cybersecurity solutions in Federal Government and U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Serial entrepreneur and former Ernst & Young Technology Consulting Partner/Principal and former Partner at Mid-Tier IT Services firm ArdentMC.
Since 2007, Mr. Matechak led critical infrastructure protection engagements with CISA (and precursor entity names (IP, NPPD, etc.) and most recently the National Risk Management Center (NRMC), Stakeholder Engagement Division (SED), and CISA OCIO.
Mark Montgomery
Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies
- Read Mark Montgomery's Bio
Mark Montgomery is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. He serves as the Executive Director of Cybersolarium.org, a non-profit organization which works to implement the recommendations of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, where he was Executive Director. Prior to that, Mark was Policy Director for the Senate Armed Services Committee and completed 32 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a Rear Admiral.
Emily Mossburg
Global Cyber Leader,
Deloitte
- Read Emily Mossburg's Bio
Emily leads Deloitte’s Global Cyber strategy, focusing on innovative solutions for clients, as well as expanding the practice’s global reach. Under Emily’s leadership, Deloitte’s Cyber practice has seen significant growth and was recently ranked No. 1 globally in Security Consulting Services by Gartner for the 12th year by market share. A fearless advocate for greater diversity, particularly as a voice for women in the cybersecurity industry, Emily's insights on the need for a broader group of individuals with different backgrounds, ideas, and experiences has been published in Forbes, SC Magazine, and she has appeared in numerous news outlets including CNBC and Tech Republic on issues ranging from election security to the future of cyber.
Sean Stalzer
CISO & Director of Cyber Security,
Dominion Energy
- Read Sean Stalzer's Bio
Sean Stalzer is the CISO & Director of Cyber Security at Dominion Energy. Mr. Stalzer is responsible for designing, building and implementing a robust cyber security program to protect a key portion of the nations energy grid. He works across all areas of Dominion Energy and its external partners to establish and implement cyber security policies and best practices to keep the company protected from a constantly changing threat landscape. He oversees cyber incident response, cyber security-based regulatory compliance programs and the company’s Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC). The Dominion Energy CSOC team actively monitors and reacts to cyber threats and malicious electronic actions directed towards Dominion Energy assets.
Scott Smith
Principal, Government & Public Sector - Cybersecurity Technology Consulting Practice Lead at Ernst & Young (EY); CPS Dean's Advisory Council Member
- Read Scott Smith's Bio
Mr. Smith is a Partner at Ernst & Young (EY) LLP, where he leads the Cybersecurity practice for the Government and Public Sector, bringing over 25 years of experience working with commercial, federal, and state agencies. A trusted advisor, he specializes in cybersecurity, IT strategy, and systems integration, earning accolades such as the 2023 “Cyber Defender Award” from MeriTalk and “Cybersecurity Executive of the Year” from Washington Exec.
A Duke University graduate with certifications including CISSP and PMP, Mr. Smith is a U.S. Navy veteran and serves on advisory boards for GWU’s Cybersecurity College of Professional Studies and the USO.
"Cybersecurity is a dynamic and complex field, demanding diverse perspectives and expertise to address emerging threats effectively. This conference brings together academic rigor and real-world experience, creating an environment that fosters meaningful breakthroughs. I’m thrilled to contribute to this essential dialogue as part of GW’s College of Professional Studies and its partnership with the Cyber Guild."
Professor Connie Peterson Uthoff, Program Director, Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management
"This cybersecurity conference bridges industry and academia and creates a unique space for collaboration, where real-world security challenges meet innovative ideas and cutting-edge research. Ultimately, this synergy accelerates the development of effective solutions and cultivates a stronger, more resilient cybersecurity ecosystem prepared to address both national and global security threats.”
Dr. Scott J. White, Program Director, Cybersecurity BPS
Registration
We look forward to having you join us for the conference. For more information, please contact us at cpsevents@gwu.edu.