Issue 46  June 1st 2024

Willie Mae Veasy

Willie Mae Veasy is the President of Covenant Business Concepts, a consulting firm based in Franklin Park, New Jersey, established in 2005. The firm specializes in creating Business Accelerators, Centers of Excellence, and professional development programs. Willie Mae, with over 15 years of expertise in talent management, change management, and business solutions, has developed and implemented innovative business accelerator curriculums and blended learning programs. Her work includes immersion learning, conflict resolution, team building, project management, intergenerational synergy, and virtual learning sessions. She is also recognized as an Enterprise Learning Professional, designing effective training environments that integrate traditional and virtual methods. Willie Mae's achievements include receiving the 2016 NMSDC Class I Regional Supplier of the Year award and the AACCNJ Women Who Empower 2022 Women Leadership award. Her academic background includes a Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership from Pillar College and ongoing MBA studies at Rutgers Business School, expected to complete in 2026.

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Dale Favia

Dale Favia is a Job Developer and Placement Specialist at County College of Morris in Parsippany, NJ, with over 10 years of experience helping job seekers secure employment. She is also the President of the Professional Support Group of Morris County (PSGMC), where she leads a team that provides a supportive community, training, resources, and volunteering opportunities to enable professionals to find their marketplace value and network into employment. Dale's expertise includes relationship building, contract negotiations, account planning, customer satisfaction, and team leadership. Previously, she spent 27 years at IMS Health, where she excelled in roles such as Account Manager, Senior Client Service Manager, and IMSight Manager, significantly increasing sales and client satisfaction through her innovative approaches. Dale holds a background in Music Theory and Composition from William Paterson University of New Jersey. She is recognized for her analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills, which have consistently empowered clients to grow their businesses and achieve their goals.

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Yolanda Baker

Yolanda Baker, CISA, CISSP, CDPSE, is a Tech & Cyber Senior Auditor at Fiserv, a U.S.-based multinational company that provides financial technology and services to clients in the financial services sector. An accomplished IT security audit professional with 20+ years of experience encompassing data security, network security, infrastructure integrity, and cloud services, particularly within the insurance, telecommunications, and financial services industries. A Kean University graduate with a BA in Spanish including French study abroad at Centre International d'Etudes Française (CIDEF) and holds a Computer Programming Certificate from the Cittone Institute.

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Tran Cheung

Tran Cheung, with an MBA from Rutgers Business School, is a distinguished IT Security, Risk, and Compliance professional, holding several certifications including CISSP, CCSP, CISA, and PMP. Currently serving as the IT Audit Manager at Princeton University since November 2021, Tran provides information security and IT operations assurance services across the university. Previously, she was the Principal of Information Security at Mathematica, where from August 2003 to November 2021, she led the IT security operations for the Human Services Business Unit, advising on security and privacy regulations for state and federal clients.

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Shruti Kalsi

Shruti is a leader in M&A with a focus on cybersecurity. She advises C suite clients on the importance on cyber during transactions and create value by aligning cyber with business strategy. Technically sound on various cyber areas such as VAPT, Risk Management, Network Security and Threat Intelligence (including OSINT).

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Serenity Smile

Serenity is fascinated with Cloud Security and Security Architecture. Currently Serenity serves as a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst in Incident Response for Target Corporation.

Serenity loves to mentor others and am an alumni of the SANS Diversity CyberTalent Immersion Academy, completing three GIAC certifications (GSEC, GCIH, GCIA) in six months while working full time and volunteering. She has also earned the GMON, GCFE, GCLD, GPCS, and GCSA certifications.

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Scott Schober

Scott Schober, CEO of Berkeley Varitronics Systems (BVS), is a renowned cybersecurity expert with over 30 years of experience in wireless security. BVS, celebrating 50 years in business, specializes in creating solutions for detecting and preventing illegal cellular, M2M, LTE, and radio activities, widely used by government, security firms, and educational institutions. Scott is a highly sought-after speaker, author, and media commentator, frequently addressing topics like IoT, ransomware, and cyber breaches. He has authored books like 'Hacked Again' and regularly contributes to major publications and events. Scott holds a BS in Computer Science Information Technology from Kean University and was pursuing a Master’s in Telecommunications Engineering at New York University. His commitment to cybersecurity is evidenced by his role on several advisory boards, including Cybersecurity Ventures and EC-Council University. His honors include listings on the INC 5000 and Cybersecurity 500, showcasing his influence in the field.

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Samantha Snellen

Samantha Snellen is a dynamic Cybersecurity Program Coordinator and Board Member at ISC2 NJ Chapter, based in the New York City Metropolitan Area. With over 8 years of experience in the healthcare non-profit sector, Samantha brings a unique psychological perspective to her cybersecurity work, specializing in regulatory compliance, third-party risk management, and vendor due diligence. She currently coordinates cybersecurity programs at Liberty, assessing security and data privacy risks at DX, and consults on GRC at Apptega. Samantha holds multiple certifications, including Google Project Management Professional, OneTrust Incident Management Expert, and CC. She actively contributes to the cybersecurity community through speaking engagements and as a security awareness speaker at various organizations. Samantha champions hands-on learning and mentoring within the field, offering her expertise through various platforms including ISC2, NIST, and LatinasInCyber. Her educational background includes a BS in Counseling Psychology from Johnson & Wales University, further enriched by extensive professional development in cybersecurity and GRC.

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Sathya Subramani

Sathya Subramani is a Sr. Director of IT, specializing in Enterprise & Cybersecurity with a strategic approach to integrating people, process, and technology to transform enterprise applications management. With over 25 years of experience, Sathya has led the selection, implementation, and support of diverse business applications globally, managing IT functions across the US, Europe, South America, and Asia. His industry expertise spans Life Sciences, Biotech, Pharmaceuticals, Industrial Manufacturing, High-Tech Manufacturing & Distribution, and Financial Services. Sathya is skilled in a wide array of applications including Oracle e-Business Suite, SAP ERP, and specialized systems like Pharmaceutical Serialization solutions using OPSM and TraceLink. He excels in developing high-performance IT teams, enhancing production support, and driving IT operational initiatives in collaboration with vendors and stakeholders. Sathya's role extends to managing IT Service Providers, ERP administration, data center operations, and contributing to annual audits, ensuring optimal team performance and system functionality.

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Rahul Bhardwaj

Rahul Bhardwaj is a Security and Privacy Professional, currently serving as the Vice President of Cyber and Data Privacy and Head of Information Security for the Americas at EXL. With extensive experience in information security assurance, Rahul has a proven track record in designing, integrating, and delivering privacy and information security solutions to mitigate global business risks. He holds prestigious certifications such as CISM, CISSP, CISA, and Lead Auditor ISO 27001:2013. Rahul's career includes significant roles such as Deputy Chief Information Security Officer at Kroll and leadership positions at FICO and FIS, where he managed global information security operations and compliance initiatives. His specialties include enterprise risk management, ITIL, HIPAA compliance, and leading cross-functional global teams. Rahul has been recognized with several awards, including the Top 100 Infosec Maestros Award and Finalist in the Americas Information Security Leadership Awards. He is a frequent speaker at industry events, addressing emerging risks and data protection strategies.

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Robert V. Jones

Robert V. Jones, an NYU Tandon alum ('87), is the President and CEO of PReSafe Technologies, a company specializing in cybersecurity and operational security solutions. With over three decades of experience in the field, Robert has led PReSafe since its foundation, propelling it to the forefront of digital asset protection. An active member of professional groups such as InfraGard and the International Security Certification Consortium, he also contributes to the Air Traffic Control Association and was previously involved with the IEEE. Committed to service and mentorship, Robert serves on the Tandon Board of Advisors, presides over the Tandon Polytechnic Alumni Association, and co-chairs the NYU Alumni Association Awards Committee. He mentors Tandon students, emphasizing the importance of service as a purposeful endeavor, advocating for involvement and support within the community to foster collective success.

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Piere DePass

Piere DePass is an innovative and Solutions-Focused IT security leader with 15+ years of proven success. Experience with information security management and operations in large organizations, assessing and reducing security risk factors, closing security gaps, increasing operational efficiency, and a thorough understanding of internal and external user experience. Recognized for consistently meeting business objectives in fast-paced, collaborative, and cross-functional team environments. Motivated to lead and educate teams on executing effective IT risk management strategies.

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Nitai Pramanik

Nitai Pramanik is a Distinguished Engineer and Cloud Security Architect at Verizon, specializing in software architecture, development, and application security. With over 20 years of experience in the software industry, Nitai has a robust background in cloud technologies, identity and access management, and real-time data services. His work includes significant contributions to Multi-Factor Authentication and microservices using ForgeRock products, and orchestrating complex services using Camunda BPM and various cloud technologies. He has also developed fault-tolerant communication interfaces and flexible rating engines for mobile systems billing. Nitai holds several certifications, including CISSP, Certified OpenStack Administrator, and AWS Certified Solutions Architect. His educational background includes a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University, focusing on wireless communication and computer networks, and a Bachelor's degree from the National Institute of Technology Durgapur. His career spans roles at companies like Ericsson and Availity, reflecting his versatile expertise across different sectors including telecommunications, healthcare, and banking.

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Nancy Jean-Charles

Nancy E. Jean-Charles is a highly skilled Technology and Cyber Operation Risk professional at a major financial firm since July 2019. She brings over 20 years of IT industry experience, specializing in Application Development/Integration/Support, System Administration, Infrastructure Security, and Database Administration. Nancy's expertise extends to IT Security and Operational Risk Management, particularly in technologies like Oracle and SQL. She holds certifications such as CRISC, CISM, CISSP, and Oracle Database 9i Administrator, which highlight her qualifications in both the technical and security domains. Previously, Nancy served as Senior Vice President of Operational Risk Management - Technology/Cyber at Citi from 2016 to 2019 and has held various roles in IT and security at other institutions. Her educational background includes a BS/MS in Computer Science from New Jersey Institute of Technology. Nancy is proficient in French and Creole, enhancing her ability to communicate and manage diverse teams effectively.

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Nayeem Modan

Nayeem Modan stands at the forefront of Motorola Solutions' dedication to empowering first responders and citizens, prioritizing their safety and security above all else. With over 13 years of expertise in public safety communication systems, Nayeem leads the delivery of tailored cybersecurity solutions to meet the evolving needs of these critical stakeholders. As a Cybersecurity Account Executive, he plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public safety globally and empowering government agencies in the US, Australia, and EU with cutting-edge solutions.

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Matthew Lang

Matthew Lang, CISSP, CCSP, is a seasoned cyber and information security expert currently serving as the Director of Cyber Security Practice at SVAM International Inc. in New York since April 2023. Previously, he was the Director of Information Security for ReachOut Technology in the Northeast Region and the Chief Information Security Officer at IND Corporation. His extensive experience includes roles such as CTO at Avocado Green Mattress and Senior Solutions Architect at IND Corporation, where he focused on developing and overseeing cyber security strategies. Matthew is also a respected member of the ISC2 NJ Chapter Board and InfraGard, contributing to discussions and developments in cybersecurity. His certifications include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), highlighting his deep technical expertise and commitment to the field of cybersecurity.

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Miesha Washington

Meet Miesha Washington, a passionate lifelong learner and dedicated tech enthusiast on a mission to make the digital world safer. With a background in sales, customer service, research, and management, Miesha brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the cybersecurity arena.

Her insatiable curiosity and commitment to serving her community drove her to explore a career in cybersecurity. Miesha learned web development two years ago and through that experience, developed a fire for expanding her skillset and volunteering her time to provide home networking services, cyber education, and coding education to underrepresented communities.

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Klara Neginsky

Klara is an experienced information technologist with strong advocacy skills for securely enabling business goals. Her recent expertise has been in securing Identity, Messaging and Collaboration initiatives, development of cloud computing architectures, identification of strategic changes to support adoption of cutting-edge technologies.

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Khürt Williams

Khürt Williams is a veteran information security professional in Montgomery Township, New Jersey. With extensive experience in roles such as Senior Security Architect and Principal Security Consultant, Khürt has expertise in securing diverse technology environments across sectors like pharmaceuticals, government, fintech, and banking. His skills encompass security architecture, threat modeling, and application security, aligned with industry standards such as NIST and PCI DSS. Outside of work, Khürt is also an avid bird photographer.

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Ken Fishkin

Ken Fishkin, CISSP, CIPP/US, is a seasoned cybersecurity and privacy professional with over 20 years of experience in the field, currently serving as the Senior Manager of Information Security at Lowenstein Sandler LLP in Roseland, New Jersey. He is also the President of the ISC2 New Jersey Chapter and an active member on various advisory boards including InfraGard NJ and the ISC2 Chapter Advisory Committee. Ken’s extensive experience spans roles such as Director of Cybersecurity and Privacy Practice at CohnReznick LLP, where he worked for 21 years. He is recognized for his expertise in implementing and supporting secure IT infrastructures, risk management, and disaster recovery. Ken has earned multiple certifications including CISSP, CISM, CIPM, MCSE, and VCP. His contributions to the field have been acknowledged with several awards, including the ISC2 Chapter Recognition Award for North America and the HMG Strategy Global Leadership Institute Award. Ken graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a Bachelor of Science in MIS.

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Sharon Kelley

Sharon Kelley, MS, MBA, CISSP, CCSP, is an experienced information security professional and current Board Member at ISC2 NJ Chapter, based in Hoboken, New Jersey. With over 19 years of experience in security, network, and systems support, Sharon specializes in advanced security architectures and compliance frameworks including NIST, PCI, HIPPA, and CJIS. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Information Security & CISO at New Jersey Institute of Technology, where she oversees all aspects of information security and compliance. Previously, Sharon held positions as Director of Information Security and Compliance at Hudson and as a Security Professional at Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, providing expert security solutions and compliance guidance. Sharon's career also includes roles at NIKSUN and Stevens Institute of Technology, focusing on network engineering, security analysis, and project management. She holds a BS in Information Technology and an MS in Telecommunications Management from Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as an MBA from Stevens Institute of Technology.

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Jay Ferron

Jay Ferron is a distinguished cybersecurity expert and the Principal at Interactive Security Training, based in New York, where he has been pivotal since 1995 in delivering Windows migrations, security, and HPC solutions. He boasts a profound track record in the field, highlighted by his role as the Past President of the ISACA Greater Hartford chapter. Jay holds a myriad of certifications including CISSP, CISM, and CRISC, and is an APMG Accredited Trainer. His expertise spans multiple disciplines within IT security, reflected in accolades such as the Microsoft MVP award, held continuously since 2008. Jay's extensive experience also includes impactful volunteer work with the American Red Cross, where he assisted in disaster responses, including the 9/11 World Trade Center attack. His previous roles include Security Practice Lead at Global Knowledge and President of APCUG. His educational background in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering from Miami Dade College further solidifies his technical foundation and leadership in cybersecurity.

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Jennifer Bayuk

Jennifer L. Bayuk is a cybersecurity risk management consultant and CEO of Decision Framework Systems, Inc. Her experience ranges from Global Technology Risk Management and Chief Information Security Officer roles to Software Security Architect and Systems Security Engineering roles. She is also a Cybersecurity Professor, a Private Cybersecurity Investigator, and Expert Witness. Bayuk has numerous books, articles, and speaking engagements on cybersecurity on topics ranging from technology risk management and audit to security metrics and cyberforensics (many of which are available at www.bayuk.com). Bayuk has Masters Degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy, and a PhD in Systems Engineering. Her certifications include CISSP, CISA, CISM, CGEIT, and a NJ State Private Investigator's License.

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Harry Mehta

Harry is an experienced information technology executive specializing in AI, cybersecurity, and IT. As a CISA-certified professional, he performs assessments, audits, and offers compliance roadmaps tailored to the needs of various industries, with a focus on financial services. Harry provides Cyber Security as a Service (CSaaS) and serves as a virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO), advising companies on IT risks and cybersecurity strategies. His approach takes businesses from initial curiosity about AI and cybersecurity to rapid prototyping and decisive action, helping them leverage the transformative capabilities of these technologies. Harry's expertise extends to consulting roles for startups and large businesses alike, where he collaborates with diverse stakeholders to enhance information security across organizations. His guidance is crucial for companies aiming to integrate advanced AI solutions and robust cybersecurity measures effectively.

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Dhaval Shah

Dhaval Shah is the CTO and CISO at Rainbow Secure, where he has significantly advanced cyber risk management and cybersecurity fitness since April 2020. Based in New Jersey, Dhaval is an inventor known for creating innovative security technologies like geoacl, rainbow password, passwordless, and smart multifactor solutions. His work primarily revolves around the Rainbow Secure IAM SSO platform, which enhances login security, data protection, and privacy across various sectors including financial services and healthcare. Dhaval's technical leadership extends to setting up incident response programs and managing comprehensive information security risks for Rainbow Secure and its clients. He is also actively involved in cloud security and compliance efforts, aiming for certifications like CSA Star and SOC2. Dhaval participates in multiple cybersecurity forums including the FBI InfraGard and the Cloud Security Alliance. His career is underpinned by a Master's in Computer Applications from Sardar Patel University, reflecting a deep technical foundation in IT management and cybersecurity.

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Debra Price

Debra Price, CISSP and Certified Ethical Hacker, is an award-winning leader in product marketing and management, specializing in network and endpoint security, threat and vulnerability intelligence, and encryption. Based in Clark, New Jersey, Debra currently serves as the Senior Product Marketing Manager at ExtraHop, focusing on Network Performance Management and Managed Service Provider programs. With extensive experience in launching and managing enterprise security products and SaaS solutions, Debra excels in go-to-market planning, sales enablement, and competitive analysis. Her previous roles include Director of Product Marketing at ReversingLabs and Senior Product Marketing Manager at Radware, where she contributed to significant market successes such as Radware being named a leader in DDoS Prevention Solutions by IDC and Forrester. A graduate of Rutgers University with a Master’s in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, Debra's career is marked by a Stevie Award for innovation in telecommunications and recognition as a top product manager at AT&T.

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Arthur Hedge

Arthur Hedge, CISSP, is the Co-founder and President of Castle Ventures Corporation, a premier cybersecurity consulting firm in the US and a leading optimization partner for Varonis Systems. With over 30 years of consulting experience in Information Technology, Arthur has guided Castle Ventures since its inception in 2002, focusing on data security and operationalizing security solutions for a diverse client base. The firm partners with major security solution providers like Forescout, ObserveIT, Micro Focus ArcSight, Digital Guardian, AppOmni, KnowBe4, and Vectra, ensuring enhanced data visibility and informed security decisions. Prior to founding Castle Ventures, he was an executive at several technology consulting firms. A graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Arthur is also an active member of prominent professional organizations such as ISACA, ISSA, and OWASP, contributing to the advancement of cybersecurity standards and practices.

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Claudia Hernandez

Claudia Hernandez, based in New York, is a seasoned Information Technology & Cybersecurity Auditor currently with Fiserv since June 2022. She holds several prestigious certifications, including CISA, CISSP, and CCSP, underscoring her deep expertise in IT security. Claudia brings over 15 years of experience in the IT field, with a significant background in managing technology systems in the hospitality and telecommunication sectors. Before her role at Fiserv, she was the Technology Systems Manager at the New York Athletic Club from 1999 to 2020, where she was instrumental in overseeing and securing the club’s technology infrastructure. Claudia is highly skilled in strategic planning, networking, and Microsoft Office, and is fluent in both English and Spanish. Her educational background includes a degree in Electronic Engineering from Universidad Santo Tomás in Colombia. Claudia is committed to using her analytical skills to protect data from risks, threats, and vulnerabilities, contributing to robust cybersecurity measures within her organization.

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Aneta Klepacka

Aneta Klepacka, MSIT, MBA, is an experienced Information Security Professional, certified in cybersecurity, currently working as an Information Security Specialist since September 2015 at a prominent financial services company. Over her tenure of nearly nine years, Aneta has honed her expertise in managing and securing sensitive financial data, with a strong focus on adhering to PCI DSS standards. She holds a Master’s in Information System Technology with a specialization in Information Assurance from Wilmington University, and an MBA from Goldey-Beacom College. Aneta also possesses a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance and an Associate of Science in Accounting and Business Administration from Wilmington University and Cumberland County College, respectively. Fluent in Polish and proficient in English with elementary knowledge of Russian and French, Aneta’s diverse educational background and multilingual abilities enhance her communication skills, making her a vital asset to her team and company.

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Allen Ureta

Allen Ureta, a highly accredited IT and governance professional with a plethora of certifications including PMP, CISA, and ITIL, brings extensive experience from his current role as Managing Director at Deltamine Inc. Fluent in multiple languages including Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, and with working knowledge of Chinese, Allen's global communication skills are as strong as his technical expertise. He specializes in governance, risk, and compliance, providing key services like enterprise risk management and GRC technology consultations. Allen's professional journey includes significant positions at prestigious firms such as JPMorgan Chase & Co., where he was a Technology Risk Lead, and Ernst & Young, where he served as a Digital Strategy & Transformation Executive. His educational background is equally impressive, holding a master's degree in Management and Finance from Harvard University, along with multiple graduate certificates in relevant fields. Allen's career is marked by a deep commitment to value creation, strategic governance, and leadership in IT security and risk management.

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Anurag Sharma

Anurag Sharma, CISA, CISSP, is a Partner and the Market leader of Withum’s System and Process Assurance Services practice, based in Princeton, NJ. With over 19 years of professional experience, Anurag specializes in Cybersecurity Assessments using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, SOC Suite of Services (SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC for Cybersecurity), Corporate Governance, Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 compliance, and ISO/IEC 27001 Consulting. He is a recognized expert and frequent speaker on cybersecurity and SOC-related topics at major professional gatherings, including state CPA societies and the AICPA. Anurag has also authored numerous articles addressing cybersecurity challenges for small and medium businesses and is often quoted in prominent publications like NJ Biz Magazine, Boston Business Journal, and PEI Private Fund Management Magazine. Additionally, he holds designations as a SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC for Cybersecurity specialist by the AICPA Peer Review Board Oversight Task Force.

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Adnan Rafique

With over 20 years of experience in cyber security and IT, Adnan is a Cloud Security Governance Leader at the Office of the CISO (OCISO) at Elevance Health, a leading health care company. He has a master's degree in technology management and a CISM certification, demonstrating his knowledge and skills in information security management. As a technology executive, Adnan is driven by a passion for sharing knowledge and expertise, and a vision for leveraging cloud computing to enhance business success and security.

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Alfonso (Al) Yi

Alfonso J. Yi is a distinguished security strategist and risk advisor with over 25 years of expertise in information security and data protection. Currently serving as VP, Security Advisory at Prudential Financial, he oversees security strategies for the U.S. Insurance, Retirement, and Global Principle Asset Management divisions. Previously, Alfonso was VP of Security & Data Privacy at AppFolio, Inc., and Head of IT Security Risk and Chief Privacy Officer at Ralph Lauren in London. His career also includes a significant tenure as Chief Information Security Officer at Heka and as Senior Vice President at Citi in New York. He holds an M.Sc. in Information Systems from Stevens Institute of Technology and a B.S. in Computer Science from NYU - Polytechnic School of Engineering. Alfonso is certified as a CCISO, CISSP, CISM, CIPM, CIPP/E, CIPP/US, and FIP, underscoring his comprehensive understanding of the complex cybersecurity landscape. A fluent Spanish speaker, he is also an active mentor and advisory board member in the cybersecurity field.

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John Linkowsky

John Linkowsky, CISSP, is a Cybersecurity Architect and Engineer at L3Harris and a Professor at Mercer County Community College in the Business Technologies and Professional Studies Division. With over thirty years in network and cybersecurity, John is deeply involved in the cybersecurity community. He holds a B.S. in Computer Information Systems from Rider University. As Vice President of the Palo Alto Networks - FUEL User Group and Education Chair on the ISC2 NJ Chapter Executive Board, John actively contributes to advancing cybersecurity knowledge and practices. He mentors students and veterans through iQ4/CWA/ISC2 and is a member of ND-ISAC, Infraguard, and NICE, participating in key cybersecurity working groups. John's diverse experiences range from teaching Cisco Networking Academy courses at Mercer County Community College to engaging in insider threat, AI security, and Zero Trust initiatives. His commitment extends to his role as a cybersecurity career ambassador for NICE, promoting cybersecurity education and career pathways.

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Edwin Brockner

Edwin A. Brockner serves as his organization's subject matter expert on privacy-related programs and initiatives. This may include participating in ad-hoc internal design discussions to ensure Privacy by Design (PbD) measures are kept affront or monitoring current and proposed laws and regulations for recommendations to policy development. He also performs privacy impact assessments, privacy rights requests, and training and education development. Prior to, Edwin worked in internal information technology (IT) operations at one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S before shifting over to their cybersecurity and privacy advisory practice. In the advisory practice, he was responsible for performing IT General Controls (ITGC) and IT Application Controls (ITAC) assessments, evaluating cybersecurity and resiliency programs, and conducting external penetration tests for clients. Edwin holds his master’s degree in Privacy Law and Cybersecurity from Seton Hall University School of Law and bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)

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Alessandra Perotti

Alessandra Perotti is a GREM-certified malware reverse engineer and cyber threat intelligence analyst at CVS Health, with a robust background in cybersecurity spanning over a decade. Her expertise includes analyzing binaries to extract indicators of compromise, creating detections, and performing in-depth investigations into malicious infrastructure using cutting-edge OSINT and CTI tools. Alessandra has worked internationally and is proficient in multiple languages, enhancing her ability to handle diverse cybersecurity challenges. She has contributed significantly to the field by writing YARA, Sigma, and Snort rules and by publishing in cybersecurity. Additionally, Alessandra engages in independent consulting, helping organizations enhance their security posture. Her academic credentials include a Master from Politecnico di Milano in Art Direction & Copywriting and further cybersecurity education from SANS Technology Institute. Known for her creative approach to threat hunting and malware analysis, Alessandra also enjoys bouldering and scuba diving in her free time.

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Michelle Schaap

Michelle Schaap is an attorney at Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC, specializing in cybersecurity, privacy, construction, and technology law. With over 30 years of legal experience, she leads the firm's Privacy & Data Security practice, focusing on cybersecurity preparedness, incident response, and IT disaster recovery. Michelle's expertise extends to drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements, managing construction and renewable energy projects, and advising on software and technology transactions. Her career highlights include roles at Toys "R" Us and Mori Hamada & Matsumoto, handling commercial litigation and international transactions. A recognized leader in her field, Michelle has received numerous accolades, including New Jersey's Professional Lawyer of the Year and Best 50 Women in Business. She is a Certified Information Privacy Professional and frequently lectures on data protection, cybersecurity, and legal best practices. Michelle holds a J.D. from Rutgers Law School and a Cybersecurity Certificate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law.

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