SENTINELNEXUS
CONNECT. INSPIRE. TRANSFORM.
Sentinel Nexus is a peer-to-peer ecosystem of digital and in-person experiences for CISOs and enterprise Security leaders to learn from each other and push their careers forward.
POWERED BY:
THE ADVANTAGE
INSIGHTS BUILT FOR YOU
As a member, you receive quarterly and annual reports shaped from the conversations you take part in — turning peer exchange into actionable intelligence.
CYBERSECURITY LEADERSHIP CONTENT
PRACTICAL VALUE
Quarterly Intelligence Reports
Executive foresight, survey benchmarks, and leadership spotlights curated from your community.
Annual State of Cyber Leadership
A definitive guide with emerging trends, year-over-year insights, and peer strategies for the year ahead.
What You Gain
Clarity on where the industry is heading. Benchmarks to validate your strategy. Stories and lessons from leaders facing the same challenges as you.
2026 SENTINEL EVENTS
Elite cybersecurity gatherings for strategic leaders and security architects
Shield Sessions
Watchtower Forums
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Leadership Council
Executive Council Members
The Sentinel Guild
Industry leaders guiding the future of cybersecurity through shared experience and strategic insight.
Joe Barfield
CIO/CISO
Heritage Communities
Joe Barfield is a transformational technology executive with a proven track record of leading enterprise-wide digital, cybersecurity, and infrastructure modernization initiatives across healthcare, financial services, senior living, and multi-site global organizations. Known for aligning technology strategy with business outcomes, he operates at the intersection of innovation, operational excellence, and risk management—consistently delivering measurable impact at scale.
Amit Basu
Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer
International Seaways
Amit Basu is the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at International Seaways (NYSE: INSW), one of the world's largest tanker companies. A pioneer of maritime digital transformation, he has led INSW's transition to cloud-only operations and built a multi-layered cybersecurity framework safeguarding global fleet systems. Amit is recognized for advancing AI-enabled automation and cyber resilience across IT and OT environments. He is also an active thought leader and advisor in global cybersecurity and critical infrastructure forums.
Dr. Carnell A. Council II
Chief Information Security Officer
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
Dr. Carnell A. Council II brings over 25 years of experience in information assurance and cybersecurity, specializing in building resilient cybersecurity and risk management programs that protect organizations from evolving threats. As a seasoned executive and governance, risk, and compliance expert, he leads strategic cyber initiatives spanning risk quantification, crisis management, and business continuity. He has guided high-performing teams and influenced senior leaders to drive operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional resilience. Backed by industry-leading certifications—including CISSP, C|CISO, CISM, CISA, CDPSE, and CMMC-AB Registered Practitioner—he is recognized for delivering data-driven, high-impact solutions. Honored with the 2021 BEYA Career Achievement Award, he continues to champion cybersecurity maturity and organizational resilience at the highest levels.
Marlene Dehart
Cybersecurity Executive Leader and Advisor
Southern Bancorp
Marlene is a highly experienced cybersecurity leader with a successful career spanning over two decades. As a cybersecurity expert, Marlene helps organizations and industry influencers navigate governance, risk, compliance, and digital transformation for trusted services in the enterprise, cloud, and emerging technologies. She also proudly served in the United States Air Force Reserves where she retired from Space and Cyber Intelligence missions defending critical national assets. Marlene is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and has an MSc in Blockchain and Digital Currency.
Ken Foster
Chief Information Security Officer
Executive Cybersecurity Leader
Ken Foster is a Chief Information Security Officer and executive cybersecurity leader, selected as a member of the SINC Executive Council—a private, invitation-only community of elite executives who help guide the vision, voice, and programming of the SINC ecosystem. In this role, Ken serves as a trusted advisor influencing executive dialogue on strategy, innovation, and risk, while helping shape events, research, and peer engagement that strengthen executive leadership nationally and locally. He amplifies thought leadership through contributions to content and programming, and collaborates with fellow C-level leaders through curated, vendor-free forums, dinners, briefings, and closed-door roundtables. Ken is committed to building community impact—supporting mentorship, board-readiness, and a culture of trust, confidentiality, and respect—while helping define what modern executive leadership looks like.
Jasmine Hicks
Chief Information Security Officer
Gaming Sector
Jasmine is a cybersecurity and business executive recognized for advancing security maturity, leading high-performing global teams, and shaping industry best practices in the gaming sector. A national speaker and mentor, she is deeply committed to strengthening security resilience and developing the next generation of cyber professionals.
Cory Hopple
Head of Information Security
Sunstate Equipment Co., LLC
Cory Hopple is a seasoned technology leader, with over 30 years of experience and a strong focus on cybersecurity strategy and operational resilience. Cory leads initiatives that safeguard enterprise systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices. Cory collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to implement robust security frameworks and mitigate emerging threats. Cory combines technical expertise with leadership to deliver secure, scalable solutions.
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GS Jha
Global CIO & CISO
QuantumScape
GS Jha is a results-driven Global CIO and CISO with over three decades of experience leading secure IT transformation, cybersecurity strategy, and enterprise-wide digital modernization across life sciences, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology sectors. Currently serving as Global CIO & CISO at QuantumScape, a deep tech advanced battery manufacturer, GS advises the CEO, executive leadership, and Board on translating IT, AI, and cybersecurity strategy into measurable business outcomes. His career spans global leadership roles at CareDx, Accuray, Bio-Techne, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Amgen, where he consistently delivered transformative results — including $13M in IT cost reductions, $21M in ERP-driven savings, and $105M in platform consolidation at Amgen. A recognized thought leader and published author, GS authored Securing the Enterprise: A Practical Guide for CIOs, CXOs, and IT Professionals (Apress, 2025) and has a forthcoming title on artificial intelligence. He is a Finalist for the 2024 Bay Area CIO ORBIE Award and the 2024 Top 10 Indian CIO of the Year. GS holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, an MS in Computer Science from Wayne State University, and is currently pursuing an MS in Cybersecurity at Georgia Tech. As a SINCUSA Executive Advisory Council member, GS brings deep expertise in Zero Trust, AI/ML, multi-cloud, and regulated compliance frameworks — helping shape agenda content and peer dialogue that advances technology leadership across industries.
Gregory Jones
Chief Information Security Officer
Xavier University of Louisiana
Gregory Jones serves as the Chief Information Security Officer at Xavier University of Louisiana, where he spearheads the university's cybersecurity strategy and digital defense initiatives. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Greg brings over a decade of high-stakes experience in governance risk & compliance, incident response, and security engineering. He is a recognized leader in building adaptive security cultures and is a passionate advocate for developing diverse talent pipelines within the HBCU and veteran communities.
Greg Journey
Chief Information Security Officer
MetroHealth
Greg Journey serves as MetroHealth's Chief Information Security Officer, overseeing cybersecurity, physical security, and disaster recovery. He has previously worked in similar positions at other healthcare providers and at regional banks, with experience in developing and maturing security programs to manage evolving threats. Greg holds an M.S. in Information Technology, has earned CISSP and CISM certifications, and holds several vendor credentials from working previous years in consulting.
Dana Kilcrease
Chief Information Security Officer
Berkeley College
Dana Kilcrease is the Chief Information Security Officer at Berkeley College, where he leads the institution's cybersecurity strategy across academic, administrative, and international operations. With over 15 years of progressive IT and security experience, he has driven major initiatives in data protection, risk management, and digital transformation. His current focus includes advancing secure AI adoption, strengthening data governance, and building resilience across the enterprise.
Will Lassalle
Chief Information Security Officer and Chief Information Officer
Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance
Will Lassalle is a technology and cybersecurity executive with 20+ years of experience leading enterprise digital transformation, risk management, and regulated IT environments. He has served as CIO, CTO, and CISO across healthcare, insurance, government, and technology organizations, advising executive teams and boards on scaling securely and operating with confidence. Will brings a pragmatic, outcome-driven perspective focused on aligning technology, security, and business strategy.
Rich Latayan
Chief Information Security Officer
AAA
Rich Latayan is a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and IT leader with extensive experience advising organizations on cybersecurity strategy, enterprise risk, and operational resilience. He leads business-aligned security programs that strengthen governance, protect data, and support strategic objectives across Fortune 50 retailers, global pharmaceutical companies, Fortune 200 manufacturers, Big Four advisory firms, and mid-sized organizations. Rich is recognized for delivering pragmatic, business-focused guidance to executives and boards while overseeing financial planning and modern IT operating models, including ITO and BPO strategies. He holds a Master's degree in Telecommunications Management and maintains CISSP, CRISC, and ITIL certifications. Rich is an active mentor, former adjunct instructor, and frequent speaker on Generative AI, third-party risk, and business automation.
Chuck Layton
Information Resource Manager, Data Management Officer, and AI Officer
San Jacinto College
Chuck Layton serves as San Jacinto College's Information Resource Manager, Data Management Officer, and Artificial Intelligence Officer, bringing more than three decades of experience in cybersecurity, data governance, and IT leadership. His career includes senior roles as CEO, CIO, and CISO at CyberStar Defender Innovations, Alvin Community College, NASA Johnson Space Center, and the U.S. Department of Justice, where he led enterprise security programs and protected sensitive federal data. He now drives San Jac's strategy for data integrity, AI governance, and secure innovation.
Brian Lee
Chief Information Security Officer
Oil States International
Brian is an accomplished cybersecurity executive and board director with over 13 years of experience leading security strategy and operations for complex global organizations. As Chief Information Security Officer at Oil States International and a Board Member at Unitus Community Credit Union, he provides strategic leadership in enterprise risk management, compliance oversight, and data protection. In these roles, he drives initiatives that enhance resilience, strengthen governance, and align security objectives with business goals across both corporate and regulated financial environments. Brian is recognized for his ability to translate complex security challenges into actionable insights and foster collaboration between technology and business leaders. He holds a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems Security, the NACD Directorship Certification, and professional credentials including CISSP, CEH, and CCNA.
Robert Lee
BISO
Deluxe
Robert Lee is a Cybersecurity Executive and former U.S. Marine with 15+ years of experience driving security as a business enabler in highly regulated sectors. He balances board-level strategy with a deep technical "backbone" in Cloud Security, Threat Hunting, and Incident Management. By translating complex GRC and operational data into growth-focused risk management, Robert ensures security architecture directly supports enterprise resilience and market competitiveness.
Edward Marchewka
Chief Administrative Officer
PryorHealth
Edward Marchewka, DBA, serves as Chief Administrative Officer at PryorHealth, delivering strategic leadership across IT, HR, facilities, and compliance for operations spanning four states. With over two decades of experience, including key roles at Gift of Hope and Chicago Public Schools, he leverages technology and digital transformation to drive operational excellence and robust security governance. A highly credentialed leader holding a Doctorate in Business Administration and numerous certifications, Edward is a prominent industry voice, serving on multiple advisory boards including Evanta, SecureWorld, and the CISO Executive Network.
Jim Miles
VP, Cybersecurity
Construction Resources
Jim is an experienced CISO, CIO, CTO, P&L leader, consultant & executive. He has been a corporate officer and is a degreed Electrical Engineer. At both managed services providers and enterprises, Jim has designed, implemented and matured security programs including controls, policy, governance, & awareness to reduce risk and achieve compliance demanded by regulation and global fortune 100 customers (including 5 of top 10 global financial services companies).
Dr. Lovelie Moore
Business Information Security Officer
Toyota Financial Services
Dr. Lovelie Moore is a cybersecurity executive, speaker, and author of My Vulnerabilities Are PATCHED. She serves as a Business Information Security Officer at Toyota Financial Services, where she leads enterprise security strategy and risk governance initiatives. A former United States Navy Information Professional Officer and municipal security leader for the City of Dallas, she has built Security Operations Centers, strengthened incident response and vulnerability management programs, and advised executive leadership on regulatory compliance and cyber resilience. Dr. Moore has spoken at national cybersecurity forums including Hacker Halted and Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), and her doctoral research on gamified cybersecurity awareness training led to the creation of the IM PATCHED™ framework, integrating human accountability with digital action.
Christina Morillo
Sr. Director of Information Security
NY Giants
Christina Morillo is a seasoned cybersecurity and technology executive with over two decades of cross-domain experience leading enterprise security, cloud architecture, and identity programs. As an Information Security Officer and trusted advisor, she blends technical depth with strategic leadership to drive resilience, regulatory alignment, and business impact. Her career spans diverse industries, including financial services, big tech, and now professional sports, bringing a unique perspective to every challenge. Christina is also a published O'Reilly author (Zero Trust Networks: Second Edition & 97 Things Every Information Security Professional Should Know) and is passionate about making security and technology accessible, inclusive, and actionable for all.
Matthew Mudry
Chief Information Security Officer
Alera Group
Matthew Mudry is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Alera Group, where he leads cybersecurity for a rapidly growing national insurance and financial services organization. He focuses on strengthening security, integrating acquisitions, and ensuring SOC 2 Type II, NYDFS, and other regulatory compliance. Previously, Matthew served as CISO at HomeServe, advancing security maturity, integrating acquisitions, and maintaining PCI and SOX compliance across a global organization. He also held leadership roles at CareCentrix, where he supported SOC 2 Type II and HITRUST certification, and at Castleton Commodities International, where he built and led a global security and infrastructure program. With over 25 years of IT experience, including 15+ years in cybersecurity leadership, Matthew holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Security, Information Assurance, and Cybersecurity, as well as an Arts degree from Fairfield University. He also holds CISSP, CISM, GSEC, and CCSP certifications and is known for delivering practical, business-aligned security strategies that enable growth while managing risk.
Merlin Namuth
Chief Information Security Officer
City and County of Denver
Merlin Namuth is the Chief Information Security Officer at the City and County of Denver supporting over 50 agencies and departments. His comprehensive experience spanning several industries includes leading several different security programs, creating strategy and building security programs from the ground up, advancing existing security programs, mergers and acquisitions, managing incident response teams, compliance, architecture, and engineering complex security solutions. Namuth has served as an advisor to security startup companies. He has presented at numerous conferences, including RSA Conference both domestically and internationally, been interviewed on renowned security podcasts, and frequently writes blogs and articles.
Allen Ohanian
Chief Information Security Officer
Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services
Allen Ohanian is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). He leads enterprise cybersecurity, privacy, and risk governance for mission-critical child welfare systems, with a focus on human-centered security, culture, and resilience. Allen is also a doctoral candidate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, studying the relationship between cybersecurity culture and employee risk-taking behavior.
John Opala, PhD
Chief Information Security Officer
Fortune 500 Manufacturing & Consumer Goods
John Opala, PhD, is a senior global technology and cybersecurity executive with over two decades of experience leading enterprise-scale transformation across Fortune 500 manufacturing, retail, and consumer goods organizations. He currently serves as Vice President of IT Infrastructure and Global Chief Information Security Officer, aligning cybersecurity and infrastructure strategy with business growth and P&L objectives. Dr. Opala is recognized for modernizing complex environments, building high-performing global teams, and delivering measurable outcomes in cost optimization, risk reduction, and regulatory confidence. He is a trusted advisor to executive leadership and boards, known for translating complex cyber risk into clear, business-relevant insight. Dr. Opala is also an active leader in the cybersecurity community and a strong advocate for education, digital inclusion, and mentorship.
Bradley J. Schaufenbuel
Chief Information Security Officer
Paychex
Bradley J. Schaufenbuel is currently Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Paychex. He has over 29 years of experience in the information security field at companies in the financial services and technology verticals, has written numerous books and professional journal articles, possesses an MBA, a JD, and an LLM, maintains over two dozen professional certifications, serves as an advisor to multiple venture capital firms and cybersecurity startups, and regularly speaks at industry conferences.
Jigar Shah
Global Cyber & Technology Executive
Jigar Shah is a globally respected cyber and technology executive with more than two decades of experience leading digital transformation, cybersecurity strategy, and innovation at scale. Known for translating complex technical challenges into clear, human-centered solutions, Jigar has advised executive boards, governments, and global organizations on how to build resilient, secure, and future-ready systems in an increasingly volatile digital world. Throughout his career, Jigar has led high-stakes initiatives spanning cybersecurity, cloud transformation, AI adoption, and enterprise risk, often at the intersection of technology, policy, and leadership. His work has protected critical infrastructure, strengthened organizational trust, and enabled teams to innovate securely in fast-moving environments. Beyond the executive suite, Jigar is a passionate advocate for developing the next generation of technology leaders. A compelling storyteller and sought-after keynote speaker, he is known for inspiring individuals to think boldly about ethics, leadership, and impact in technology — while grounding ambition in real-world experience. Jigar is deeply committed to culture, storytelling, films, and community dialogue. He is an avid reader with a profound appreciation for literature, poetry, and the arts. He believes in the power of conversation to shape identity, foster empathy, and encourage civic engagement. Jigar holds several leadership titles and is an advisory board member to several nonprofits. At its core, Jigar's message is simple but powerful: technology doesn't shape the future — people do. And the leaders we develop today will define the digital world of tomorrow.
Tara Smith
BISO
Kimberly-Clark
Tara Smith is the Corporate Functions Business Information Security Officer for Kimberly-Clark, bringing experience in cybersecurity, information assurance, cyber strategy, and leadership. She began her career with the Department of Defense and now serves as the information security liaison for K-C's Global Corporate Functions. Tara holds CompTIA Security+, as well as ISACA CISM and CRISC certifications. She earned her MPA from Walden University and her BS from Valdosta State University. Tara is the author of three books.
Bert Talley
Cybersecurity and Compliance Leader
HealthtrackRx
Bert Talley leads cybersecurity and compliance at HealthtrackRx, where he transforms the traditional "office of No" into a hub of curiosity and continuous learning. Functioning as a knowledge builder and strategic connector, he simplifies complex security concepts to spark understanding and drive meaningful action across the organization. He combines real-world experience with creative analysis, fostering a culture where diverse viewpoints and respectful debate lead to superior outcomes. Outside of his professional pursuits, he is an avid scuba and wreck diver dedicated to understanding how technology and people intersect.
Ravi Thatavarthy
Chief Information Security Officer and Head of Infrastructure
EmpiRx Health
Ravi Thatavarthy is the Chief Information Security Officer and Head of Infrastructure at EmpiRx Health. He is a seasoned technology and security executive with over two decades of experience leading enterprise security, cloud, identity, and infrastructure functions across healthcare, retail, financial services, and technology organizations. Previously, he has served in senior security and architecture leadership roles at companies including Rite Aid, Haemonetics, iRobot, and State Street. Ravi is known for building scalable platforms, articulating risk in business terms, and enabling secure, compliant delivery of business-critical initiatives.
Steven Toy
CISO
Capgemini
Steven specializes in defining and implementing cybersecurity standards, policies, and guidelines across global operations. His role includes monitoring enterprise-wide cyber risk and compliance, detecting incidents, and supporting crisis management. He provides strategic guidance to leadership and delivery teams through frameworks, tools, and training. Additionally, he oversees compliance reviews, risk assessments, and audit planning, ensuring cybersecurity measures are integrated from presales through delivery. He manages end-to-end incident response, validates operational security, and drives continuous improvement in cyber resilience across all projects in North America.
Dana Turner
Chief Information Security Officer
Union Bank & Trust
Dana serves as Chief Information Security Officer at Union Bank & Trust, bringing 34 years of Information Technology and Security expertise to protecting financial services in an evolving threat landscape. He is one of the co-founders of Cyber Strong Nebraska, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening state-wide cybersecurity through education and collaboration, and leads initiatives to enhance organizational incident response capabilities and operational resilience across multiple sectors.
Altaf Uddin
Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer
Kansas Secretary of State
Altaf Uddin is the CIO and CISO for the Kansas Secretary of State, where he provides strategic leadership across all facets of information technology and cybersecurity. He oversees enterprise systems of record, mission-critical workflows, and statewide licensing platforms, ensuring operational integrity and compliance with federal and state mandates. With a career grounded in information security and digital transformation, Altaf holds the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and MCTIA (Mandiant Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysis) certifications, along with an MBA. He is deeply committed to aligning technology strategy with organizational priorities - driving innovation, resilience, and secure electronic service delivery for the public sector.
Ed Yousfi
Business Information Security Officer & Global Head of Third Party Risk Management
Gallagher
Ed serves as the Business Information Security Officer for Gallagher Bassett and the Global Head of Third-Party Risk Management for Gallagher, where he drives enterprise security strategy at the intersection of business priorities and risk oversight. With more than two decades of leadership in information security and IT GRC, he has built and matured cybersecurity operating models emphasizing IT risk management, vulnerability management, third-party risk, and IT governance. Ed has led programs for global organizations across financial services, retail, and healthcare, operating within complex regulatory environments and large-scale ecosystems. He is recognized for aligning security investment to business outcomes, strengthening supply-chain assurance, and enabling transformation while managing risk. He holds an MBA and multiple professional certifications, including CISSP and CPA, and regularly shares practitioner insights on third-party risk, IT governance, and emerging cybersecurity trends and technologies.
HOW WE CONNECT
Three Ways to Engage
From focused briefings to regional gatherings, we bring security leaders together in formats that foster real connection and actionable insights
Ready to experience security leadership done differently?
The problems on the table
Rotating, member-driven topics. Examples:
Identity sprawl
Incident readiness
Board reporting that lands
Third-party exposure
Detection quality
Team structure that scales
MEMBER DRIVEN
100%
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Vendors, Without the Circus
We work with solution providers who solve real problems and can prove it
Limited Sponsor Slots
Carefully curated partnerships so leaders can speak freely without vendor overload
Clear Purpose
Every vendor presence is aligned to the discussion and adds genuine value
Our Philosophy
If you solve real problems and can prove it, you belong.
If you need a booth and a bullhorn, you don't.
QUALITY PARTNERSHIPS
Solution-Focused Vendors
15+
Trusted Partners
100%
Value-Aligned
Zero Noise
Maximum Impact
What Our Partners Get
Direct Access
Meaningful conversations with decision makers who need solutions
Targeted Engagement
Aligned to specific problems and solutions that matter
Trusted Environment
Build relationships, not just transactions
The Room, by Design
Small enough to be useful. Senior enough to be worth your time.
CISOs, Deputy CISOs, and Senior Security Leaders
The decision makers who shape security strategy and implementation
Select Vendors
Who align to the problem being discussed and add real value
ELITE MEMBERSHIP
Sentinel Guild
The Fellowship of Cyber Defense
Invitation-Only Circle
An invitation-only circle of senior security leaders guiding Sentinel Nexus. Guild members publish with authority, shape research and forums, and set the direction for the next era of cybersecurity. This is where thought leadership becomes strategy and influence becomes impact.
Direct Access & Impact
Through private dinners, leadership forums, and advisory roles, members gain direct access to peers who act: CISOs, operators, and policymakers. Together, the Guild forges partnerships, accelerates rising talent, and leaves a lasting mark on the global security ecosystem.
INVITATION ONLY
Thought Leadership
Shape industry direction through authoritative publications and strategic guidance
Elite Network
Connect with CISOs, operators, and policymakers who drive real change
Lasting Impact
Leave a mark on the global security ecosystem through strategic partnerships
Access Control
CLEARANCE LEVELS
Select your engagement tier based on operational requirements
● RESTRICTED
Join the Guild
Senior Leadership Only
Invitation-only access to our core network of 500+ verified security executives.
Background verification required
● CONFIDENTIAL
Join the Nexus
Extended Operations Network
Connect with the broader intelligence community and access tactical briefings.
Professional credentials required
● CLASSIFIED
Partnership Request
Vendor Integration Program
Strategic alliances for organizations solving critical defense challenges.
Executive approval required
All access requests subject to verification and approval by Security Operations