SecureWorld Dallas 2024

Glen Sorensen is a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) with Cyber Risk Opportunities. He has worn numerous hats in his career, in areas such as security engineering and architecture, security operations, GRC, and leadership. He has held a variety of roles as an analyst, engineer, consultant, auditor, regulator, and information security officer for a financial institution.

Glen approaches problems with practical solutions that bring good business value and has worked across many sectors, including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and others. He has served as a consulting expert in a large legal case involving healthcare and cyber attack detection technology. He has been in IT and security for 15+ years, longer if you count years of misspent youth bending technology and countless hours of roleplaying games. He is a sucker for a good tabletop exercise and serves as an Incident Master for HackBack Gaming, the fun kind of TTX.

Larry Wilson is an Information Security Manager at Point32Healt in Canton, MA. He was formerly the Chief Information Security Officer for Sumitomo Pharma Americas, Inc., Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and the University of Massachusetts (UMass) President's Office. In the CISO role, Larry was responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing compliance with the SMPA / WPI / UMass Information Security Policy and Written Information Security Plan (WISP). In addition to designing and deploying the respective cybersecurity programs, Larry has developed and delivered cybersecurity training at multiple industry events, workshops, training venues, etc. Courses include Designing and Building a Cybersecurity Program, Designing and Building a Ransomware Program, and Designing and Building a Third-Party Risk Program. Larry has also worked with multiple companies in multiple industries to help design, build, and maintain their Cybersecurity Programs, Ransomware Program, and Third-Party Risk Programs.

Michael R. Smith, MBA, CISSP, CFE, CISA, CIA, PMP, ITIL, is a Healthcare Information Technology Professional with over thirty years of IT experience. Michael is a Sr. I.S. Auditor at Parkland in Dallas, Texas, specializing in performing information security assessments and audits focused around IT governance and regulatory compliance.

Industry Certifications, Licensure, & Training
Certified Information Security Specialist (CISSP)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Information Library Information Technology (ITIL)

Bryce Carter is a nationally-recognized leader known for his transformative impact on organizational culture and his ability drive cybersecurity as a key business enabler. Bryce has not only developed groundbreaking security strategies that safeguard data, but has also focused on the broader welfare of communities. His visionary approach has earned him positions on multiple advisory boards, where he helps shapes next-generation policies and technologies. In addition, Bryce contributes to the growth of future leaders by mentoring upcoming executives and technology professionals. His achievements have helped lay the groundwork for a more innovative, resilient, and inclusive future.

Shawn Tuma is an internationally recognized cybersecurity, computer fraud and data privacy law attorney, areas in which he has practiced for two decades. He is Co-Chair of Spencer Fane’s Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice where he regularly serves as cybersecurity and privacy counsel advising a wide variety of businesses ranging from small and mid-sized companies to Fortune 100 enterprises. Shawn has been named a Cybersecurity Law Trailblazer by the National Law Journal, SuperLawyers Top 100 Lawyers in DFW, and Best Lawyers in Dallas. He serves as the Practitioner Editor for Bloomberg Law’s Texas Privacy & Data Security Law, among many other activities.

Anmol Agarwal is a security researcher at a Fortune 500 Company and is focused on securing AI and Machine Learning in 5G and 6G. She holds a doctoral degree in cybersecurity analytics from George Washington University and a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Texas at Dallas. She previously worked at the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in the High Value Asset Program Management Office. In her free time, she enjoys giving back to the community and is an active industry mentor.

Sybrand has more than three years of experience in information technology and IT risk advisory services. He has consulted with a wide range of clients, including Fortune 50 companies and government agencies. He is well versed in controls testing performed in UNIX / LINUX, and Microsoft (Windows Server and Active Directory) environments, utilizing the NIST, ISO and CMMC. His focus includes Payment Card Industry (PCI) consulting and cybersecurity maturity evaluations.

A 20+ year information security veteran, Ian has served in many leadership positions to include CIO/CISO. Ian also led a multi-billion dollar mission charged with developing and operating advanced cyber capabilities for the Undersecretary of Defense (Intelligence), the DoD Chief Information Officer, and the Secretary of the Air Force. In this role he led high impact global teams and advised the US Congress and Executive Branch, resulting in a coordinated, funded national approach to resolve the highest cyber concerns of Government leadership. In the financial sector, Ian has led strategic capabilities to protect critical infrastructure from cyber-attack.

Jeremy Rucker leads businesses through the evolving and complex landscape of data privacy, security, and incident response. As a data privacy and cybersecurity attorney, Jeremy regularly counsels clients in all industries on the emerging federal, state, and international data laws and regulations, and also serves as a breach coach to guide organizations through national data breach notification processes and resultant regulator investigations.

Jeremy is a frequent speaker on data privacy and cybersecurity matters and is certified by the International Association of Privacy Professionals as a Privacy Law Specialist. Additionally, Jeremy holds double certifications as a Certified Information Privacy Professional for United States law (CIPP/US) and European law (CIPP/E); and a certification as a Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM – IAPP).

Teresa Merklin is a Principal Information Assurance Engineer for Cybersecurity Engineering at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, where she is responsible for technology identification and evaluation for aeronautics platforms. Teresa holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Oklahoma State University, a Masters of Software Engineering from Texas Christian University, an MBA in Information Assurance from the University of Dallas. She is a CISSP and CSSLP.

Parrish is currently SVP & CISO of Sunflower Bank and has more than 25 years of technology experience and more than 14 years in cybersecurity. During this time, Parrish has worked in various functions of technology, risk management, infrastructure services and support, audit and compliance, incident response, and cybersecurity / information security. His experience also includes working in multiple industries including financial services, telecommunications, chemical manufacturing, real estate, and retail. In addition, he has worked in both global Fortune 500 companies and small start-up-based companies.

During his tenure as a CISO, he has been involved in the creation, staffing, building, and management of comprehensive information security programs for various companies across diverse locations and personnel. In all these companies, he has implemented programs based on risk and threat analysis and has implemented controls, services, and processes that have not only met the needs of the company but also the regulatory and compliance requirements of the company including incident response capabilities.

Parrish holds a Master of Business Administration from Texas Christian University and certifications as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), and Professional Project Manager (PMP).

Gabriel Nwajiaku is a seasoned cybersecurity expert, army veteran, and community leader. Holding a diverse array of certifications including CISM, PMP, Security+, and CySA+, Gabriel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. His journey began in the military, where he honed his skills in strategic planning and risk management, serving his country with distinction.

After transitioning from the military, Gabriel continued his pursuit of excellence in cybersecurity, earning multiple certifications to further solidify his expertise. His commitment to continuous learning and professional development has enabled him to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats and challenges.

In addition to his impressive professional achievements, Gabriel is also deeply engaged in his community. As the Commissioner of the City of Austin's Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, he plays a vital role in shaping policies and initiatives that promote digital inclusion and access to technology for all residents.

With a passion for empowering individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity, Gabriel brings a unique perspective to the table. His insights into establishing purpose and direction in this nebulous terrain are sure to inspire and enlighten audiences at the conference.

Accomplished Senior Threat Intelligence Analyst and expert threat hunter with a robust background in cybersecurity, holding certifications in Penetration Testing and Bug Bounty. Proficient in Incident Response, Threat Hunting, Intelligence, Computer Forensics, Red Teaming, Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Assessment, and Audits. Skilled in designing SOCs, managing SIEM systems, conducting Risk Analysis, and developing Global Security Policies. Demonstrates expertise in Malware Analysis and Remediation, adept at enhancing security across complex IT environments to mitigate risks and protect organizational assets.

Cedric Leighton is a CNN Military Analyst and a retired United States Air Force Colonel. On CNN, he has provided incisive commentaries on the Israel-Hamas War, the War in Ukraine, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and numerous other conflicts around the world. His analysis has been seen by millions of viewers around the world and provided much needed context to some of the most pressing national security issues of our time. As a U.S. Air Force officer, Colonel Leighton served at U.S. Special Operations Command, the Joint Staff, and the National Security Agency, where he helped train the nation's cyber warriors. A Middle East combat veteran, he is the recipient of numerous military awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Bronze Star. After serving 26 years as a U.S. Air Force Intelligence Officer, Col. Leighton founded a strategic risk consultancy and became the co-founder of CYFORIX, where he advises multinational businesses on developing better cyber strategies designed to reduce risk and unpredictability.

VJ Viswanathan is a seasoned technology executive recognized and awarded for innovation, business capability transformation, and thoughtful mentorship. Most recently, VJ is the founding partner at CYFORIX, a global cybersecurity research, advisory, and strategic consulting firm delivering solutions to public and private sectors. He also serves as the CEO at TORQE, a specialized advisory firm focused on analytics, automation, and convergent technologies. VJ is the co-host of ELEVATEINTEL, a podcast series at the nexus of technology, social, and defense.

With more than 25 years of pioneering enterprise technology, cybersecurity, privacy, and compliance & risk management experience, VJ has a detailed track record of designing, implementing, and leading highly successful programs, products, and services at multinational Fortune 100 brands spanning CPG, telecom, media, supply chain, healthcare, and finance segments. As a strategic thought leader, VJ has delivered the first of its kind "Supply Chain Security" & “Omni-channel Risk Management” frameworks. As a published author and featured keynote speaker at global industry events, he approaches disruptive digital paradigms with innovation, creativity, and active collaboration with his key industry peers, researchers, national & international law enforcement, and defense groups.

VJ is an active mentor at various incubators and accelerators groups, serves as an advisory board member for growth stage companies. As a strategic adviser to VC & PE firms, he specializes in developing market analysis, competitive product road maps, and guides in opportunity mapping. As a board member and subject matter advisor to CEOs and corporate directors, VJ evaluates and audits enterprise technology and cybersecurity programs for veracity and operational effectiveness.

VJ is passionate about animal rights and giving back to the technology and security industry. He has created a rescue and foster care group for large breed dogs. He is actively engaged with academic institutions and purpose-driven professional groups like Minorities in Cyber Security, where he serves as a board member and chair of mentorship programs to develop the next generation talent through coaching and facilitating scholarships for technology and cybersecurity education.