Cybersecurity Day in the Nest is a new event to bring together students, faculty,
and industry leaders to explore the latest in cybersecurity. Expect thought-provoking
panels, networking opportunities, and the chance to connect with the people shaping
the future of the field.
Norbert Monfort – Vice President of IT Transformation & Innovation at Assurant, with 30+ years of experience leading technology and innovation at Fortune 500 companies. Adjunct professor and author, specializing in AI, IT innovation, and education.
Optional: 7:00 PM KSU Football game vs LA Tech (Fifth Third Stadium)
Faculty Panel
Our faculty experts will share insights on cutting-edge research and how KSU is preparing students for tomorrow’s cyber challenges. It’s your chance to hear directly from the professors and researchers who are pushing the field forward. (For corporate partners only)
Amelia Estwick, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Information Technology, College of Computing & Software Engineering
Vijay Anand, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Information Technology, College of Computing &
Software Engineering
Associate Professor of Information Security and Assurance, Department of Information
Systems and Security
Industry Panel
Top professionals will join us to talk about career paths, emerging threats, and the skills they look for when hiring. Whether you’re job-hunting or just exploring, you’ll walk away with valuable real-world knowledge. (Open to all)
Chris Arrendale
Seasoned entrepreneur and cybersecurity expert with 24+ years in technology, privacy,
and security. Former CISO and founder of multiple consulting companies; frequent keynote
speaker on AI, privacy, compliance, and cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity consultant and manager at Ernst & Young, specializing in risk management,
incident response, and digital identity. Passionate about mentoring the next generation
of cybersecurity professionals.
Director of IT Operations at MIMEDX, with 20+ years in cybersecurity, threat management,
and IT operations. Holds a Master of Cybersecurity from KSU; focuses on building resilient
systems and mentoring teams.
This Day in the Nest is extra special — it’s happening in conjunction with the KSU CCSE Cyber Ideathon, a fast-paced, team-based competition where students tackle real-world cybersecurity
challenges. Participants will collaborate, innovate, and pitch their solutions to
a panel of judges, gaining hands-on experience and valuable feedback from industry
professionals. The Ideathon will kick off on Thursday at the end of Day in the Nest
and conclude on Saturday. All majors are welcome.
The entire event is open to any external and industry partners and all KSU faculty
and staff, with a special focus on those interested in cybersecurity, IT, computer
science, and related fields. Students are encouraged to join for the networking reception
and industry panel. Students may register through OwlLife.
Do I need to register?
Yes — registration ensures we have space, materials, and seating for everyone. Please see the registration section for more information.
Who organizes Cybersecurity Day in the Nest?
The event is hosted by KSU’s Division of University Advancement and Corporate and Foundation Relations team, with support from the Coles College of Business and College of Computing and Software Engineering.
Who organizes Cybersecurity Day in the Nest?
The event is hosted by KSU’s Division of University Advancement and Corporate and Foundation Relations team, with support from the Coles College of Business and College of Computing and Software Engineering.
Learn more about KSU’s academic leaders in cybersecurity:
