FBI cyber leader headlines WMU cybersecurity summit
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Emerging cyber threats, strategic leadership and practical defense tactics will take center stage when Western Michigan University's Office of Information Technology hosts its fourth annual Cybersecurity Summit on Thursday, Oct. 9, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the WMU Student Center.
This year’s theme, “Cybersecurity for All: Empowering Everyday Digital Citizens,” reflects the summit’s inclusive mission to engage students, professionals and community members in the shared responsibility of digital safety.
“Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a commonsense issue. This summit is about empowering every digital citizen with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their organizations,” says Andrew Holmes, chief information officer.
The summit, which will take place in the student center’s second-floor ballroom, will feature a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Brett Leatherman, assistant director of the FBI’s cyber division, who will deliver the keynote address. Additional speakers include students, alumni and cybersecurity leaders from organizations such as People Driven Technology, Resilience, Cadre, CDW, Dell, Ninjio and the Michigan Cyber Command Center.
In an ever-expanding digital world, this summit will offer important information to a wide range of audiences through four tailored pathways:
- Cybersecurity Foundations and Futures: Students
- Leadership in Cybersecurity Strategy: Professionals
- Cyber Defense and Innovation: IT staff, techs
- Everyday Cyber Safety: Consumers, end-users
Other event highlights include networking opportunities through morning refreshments, lunch, vendor exhibits and interactive sessions, allowing attendees to personalize their summit experience.
For more information, contact Garald Barton IV, marketing manager in Western’s Office of Information Technology.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.