See It To Be It Spotlight

I got into cybersecurity through…a deep desire to continue my life’s work of public service on a new, digital frontier. After years of serving as an elected official and navigating the complexities of healthcare administration, I realized that the front lines of community protection had shifted. Protecting people now means protecting their data, their identities, and the critical infrastructure they rely on every day. I took the leap and immersed myself in an intensive cybersecurity training program in Atlanta, and took opportunities through the WiCyS training platform and the CyberGuild RISE Cohort. I wanted to bring my background in governance and advocacy directly to the table where today’s biggest security decisions are being made.

For me, a positive cyber mindset is…rooted in resilience, continuous curiosity, and advocating for digital safety. It’s understanding that we aren’t just securing networks or checking compliance boxes; we are actively safeguarding people’s livelihoods. A positive mindset means viewing every evolving threat not just as an obstacle, but as a puzzle to be solved collaboratively. It requires staying adaptable, especially with the rapid rise of AI, and remembering that true security requires empathy, strategy, and community-building just as much as technical abilities.

What experience helped you transition to a cybersecurity career? 

The strategic leadership and risk management experience I gained in public office significantly helped me transition to a cybersecurity career. Skills such as interpreting policy, assessing risks, navigating regulatory mandates, and communicating with stakeholders during a crisis are the bedrock of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). Knowing what questions to ask, gaining trust, communicating effectively under pressure, and maintaining composure has given me a strategic advantage. These skills help me approach my technical labs and certification studies not just as a student, but as a seasoned leader ready to protect our digital ecosystems. 

What is your biggest takeaway from the RISE Mentorship Program?

My biggest takeaway is that protecting data isn’t just about servers and firewalls, but it’s about safeguarding people’s lives, identities, and livelihoods. Coming into cybersecurity I initially wondered how my past careers would translate into such a deeply technical field.  I have since learned that my past experiences in Non-Profit building, Healthcare and Public Service aren’t lost, they are my greatest assets.

What has been your favorite part of being a RISE Mentee?

Without a doubt, my favorite part of being a RISE Mentee has been experiencing the sheer generosity and dedication of the mentors, and the speakers who have given us so many nuggets along the way. Coming from a world where community organizing and civic engagement are paramount, I have been absolutely blown away by how fiercely cyber professionals look out for one another.

The mentors I’ve had the privilege of working with have freely shared their hard-earned wisdom, rolling up their sleeves to help translate my background in service, governance and healthcare into a strategic advantage in the cyber world. The real-world experience and guidance of my mentors has given me the confidence to pivot and it has been an empowering journey. One of my mentors inspired me to write a book and curriculum about helping kids and parents in the age of AI. Those ah-ha moments would not be possible without caring members of RISE and The CyberGuild.

The Cyber Guild connects leaders, practitioners, and emerging talent through events, mentorship, and community.