October 2-3, 2025 | J.W. Marriott Chicago

Where Security and Innovation Converge

Speakers to Date

We’re proud to have the continued support of so many distinguished sponsors for the second year of the GovRAMP Cyber Summit. Their partnership makes this event possible.

Jeff Allen

Jeff Allen

IoT COO, State of Indiana

Indiana Office of Technology, Chief Operating Officer Jeff Allen was appointed to his position in December of 2022. He has over 23 years of IT experience and has been with the State for 19 years, and with the Office of Technology for 17 of those.

Allen started with the Indiana Department of Administration in the spring of 2004, and came over to IOT as a Desktop Technician in 2006. He also worked as a Systems Administrator on the Tier 3 team before moving into his first management role in 2013. He has served as the Tier 3 team and PC Refresh Manager, and prior to being named COO, had been the Deputy COO over End User Services since 2015.

Allen holds a degree in History from Indiana University and lives in Fishers, Indiana with his wife and three kids. He enjoys boating, camping, and seeing as much live music as possible.

Previously, Windy held multiple leadership roles within the Division, notably managing the State's Cooperative Contracts Program, overseeing $1 billion in public entity spend. Her achievements include implementing a statewide eProcurement system for over 100 public entities, rolling out a solutions-based procurement method, and streamlining contractor reporting processes.

She also spearheaded procurement for critical projects like state-standardized voting equipment and Utah's first learning management system. 

Prior to state service, Windy gained extensive private sector experience in strategic sourcing, global program management, regulatory compliance, and sustainability.

This diverse background provides a holistic understanding of procurement dynamics, enabling innovative strategies that deliver value while ensuring compliance.

 

Sessions

Government Procurement Learning Lab 1: Enhancing Cyber Resilience through Strong Contracting and Operational Readiness October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Learn from Case Studies of how GovRAMP is being incorporated into Ts & Cs and best practices for cloud procurement. Take home sample language and practical applications.

Speakers

 

 

Jeff Allen, IoT COO, State of Indiana

 

 

Wendy Aphayrath, CPO, State of Utah

 

 

Alan Fuller, CIO, State of Utah

 

 

Kate Shelby, IDOA Deputy Commissioner, State of Indiana

Wendy Aphayrath

Windy Aphayrath

CPO, State of Utah

Windy Aphayrath, Chief Procurement Officer for the State of Utah and Director of its Division of Purchasing and General Services, leads transformative initiatives to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in government procurement. She oversees operations significantly impacting the State's finances and public services, leveraging her strong background in program and project management.  

Previously, Windy held multiple leadership roles within the Division, notably managing the State's Cooperative Contracts Program, overseeing $1 billion in public entity spend. Her achievements include implementing a statewide eProcurement system for over 100 public entities, rolling out a solutions-based procurement method, and streamlining contractor reporting processes. She also spearheaded procurement for critical projects like state-standardized voting equipment and Utah's first learning management system. 

Prior to state service, Windy gained extensive private sector experience in strategic sourcing, global program management, regulatory compliance, and sustainability. This diverse background provides a holistic understanding of procurement dynamics, enabling innovative strategies that deliver value while ensuring compliance. 

 

Sessions

Government Procurement Learning Lab 1: Enhancing Cyber Resilience through Strong Contracting and Operational Readiness October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Learn from Case Studies of how GovRAMP is being incorporated into Ts & Cs and best practices for cloud procurement. Take home sample language and practical applications.

Speakers

 

 

Jeff Allen, IoT COO, State of Indiana

 

 

Wendy Aphayrath, CPO, State of Utah

 

 

Alan Fuller, CIO, State of Utah

 

 

Kate Shelby, IDOA Deputy Commissioner, State of Indiana

Joe Bielawski

Joe Bielawski

President, Knowledge Services

Joe Bielawski is the President of Knowledge Services and a founding member of GovRAMP, where he previously served as its President. Joe is also the founder of RAMPxchange, a cyber and risk management marketplace that connects public and private sector customers with vetted cybersecurity suppliers. Joe is dedicated to serving those who serve others. His commitment to helping public and private organizations navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape was instrumental in establishing GovRAMP. Under his leadership, Knowledge Services functions as the GovRAMP PMO while RAMPxchange addresses supplier’s authorization cost and complexity apprehensions.

Fred Brittain

Fred Brittain

Executive Advisor, GovRAMP PMO

Fred Brittain is an experienced and innovative Information Security and IT leader who served as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the State of Maine from 2019 to 2023. Prior to joining the state government, he spent 25 years with the University of Maine system, where he rose from leading IT for a single campus to becoming the associate CIO for the entire system. As the CIO of Maine, he was responsible for overseeing the State’s IT policies, infrastructure, cybersecurity, accessibility, and service management. He also led several initiatives to improve the state’s digital capabilities, such as increasing web traffic, enhancing online services, and bringing the State through the pandemic while still providing best in class services to the people of Maine. He was recognized as one of the Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers by Government Technology magazine in 2023 for his achievements and vision. After leaving the state government, he joined Knowledge Services as the Vice President of Information Security in August 2023, where he continues to apply his expertise and passion for information security to improve the cyber posture of cloud service providers at the national level. Fred Brittain holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Computer Science. He is also an avid cyclist and skier living with his family in a log cabin in rural Maine.

Sessions

Panel 1: Tales from the Cyber Frontline
October 2, 2025
3:50 – 4:40 pm CST

This panel features a candid conversation about how industry and state and local governments can work together to develop more localized security strategies in the midst of changes to federal funding and priorities. We will revisit concepts like ‘whole of state’ security and practical solutions that the public sector has developed to better collaborate and move security forward.

Speakers

 

 

Fred Brittain, Executive Advisor, GovRAMP

 

 

Megan Smyth, Director of Legal Education, NASPO

 

 

Ken Weeks, CISO, State of New Hampshire

Amanda Crawford

Amanda Crawford

CIO, State of Texas DIR

Amanda Crawford is the Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) and serves as the Chief Information Officer for the State of Texas. In this role, she is responsible for the overall leadership and daily operations of DIR, an agency with an annual fiscal profile of more than $6 billion. DIR's responsibilities include protecting the state's data and critical technology infrastructure, managing a multi-billion-dollar cooperative contracts program, and providing strategic technology leadership and solutions to all levels of Texas government. 

Prior to leading the team at DIR, Mandy served at the Office of the Attorney General of Texas (OAG) for more than 17 years. She held various positions at the OAG, including ultimately serving for two and a half years as the Deputy Attorney General for Administration and General Counsel. Mandy is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and earned her law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. 

 

Sessions

Crisis Simulation: Practice the Possible
October 2, 2025
2:10 – 3:25 pm CST

How should it work when a crisis occurs? Explore the roles of public sector leaders and their private sector partners when something goes wrong. Participants will experience a tabletop exercise that they can take back to their leadership and teams.

Speakers

 

 

Amanda Crawford, CIO, State of Texas DIR 

 

 

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper, SLED Field CISO, Axonius

 

 

Nikki Rosecrans, CISO, Arapahoe County

 

 

Antoinette Webster, Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut

Pete Dudek

Pete Dudek

Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

Pete Dudek is an Associate Director at A-LIGN, where he leads the delivery of all FedRAMP and GovRAMP audits within the firm’s Federal Practice. He also serves as the primary liaison for A-LIGN’s GovRAMP Champion-level membership. In addition, Pete contributes to the GovRAMP Standards and Technical Committee in an advisory capacity, providing strategic recommendations on industry best practices and assessment methodologies to the Board of Directors.

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

Pete Dudek, Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

 

 

Nick Hughes, Cooperative Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

 

 

David Resler, Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

 

 

Tony Sauerhoff, CISO, State of Texas

 

 

Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations & General Counsel, GovRAMP

Alan Fuller

Alan Fuller

CIO, State of Utah

Alan Fuller was appointed chief information officer for the State of Utah in March 2021. As CIO, Fuller oversees all IT functions for executive branch agencies in Utah with the goal to improve innovation and improve government services through the use of technology.

 

Sessions

Government Procurement Learning Lab 1: Enhancing Cyber Resilience through Strong Contracting and Operational Readiness October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Learn from Case Studies of how GovRAMP is being incorporated into Ts & Cs and best practices for cloud procurement. Take home sample language and practical applications.

Speakers

 

 

Jeff Allen, IoT COO, State of Indiana

 

 

Wendy Aphayrath, CPO, State of Utah

 

 

Alan Fuller, CIO, State of Utah

 

 

Kate Shelby, IDOA Deputy Commissioner, State of Indiana

Glen Herdrich

Glen Herdrich

CISO, Sacramento County

Glenn Herdrich is an accomplished leader in the field of information security, currently serving as the head of the Information Security Office at Sacramento County. He is passionate about providing top-tier information security services that safeguard County systems and protect constituent data. Glenn's approach to information security is grounded in the belief that simplicity and collaboration are key to success. By fostering coordination and synergy between people, processes, and technology, he has been able to significantly improve information security awareness and controls at the County. In addition to his role at the County, Glenn serves on the board of directors for GovRAMP where he leverages his expertise and leadership to promote cybersecurity best practices through education and policy development to improve the cyber posture of public institutions and the citizens they serve.

 

Sessions

Co-Creators Workshop: Filling in the Gaps
October 3, 2025
11:15 – 11:55 am CST

Building off the discussions throughout the Summit, this collaborative, active session will feature attendees sharing additional ideas and brainstorming on how state and local government leaders can fill in gaps around security, and how industry can serve as an active partner to meet that need.

Speakers

 

 

Leah McGrath, Executive Director

 

 

Glenn Herdrich, CISO, Sacramento County

 

 

Dugan Petty, Board Member, GovRAMP

David Hinchman

David Hinchman

Director – IT & Cybersecurity, GAO

On GAO’s Information Technology and Cybersecurity team, Dave Hinchman oversees government-wide reviews of critical infrastructure cybersecurity, the federal cyber workforce, and cloud computing security. His multi-disciplinary teams primarily focus on emerging cybersecurity issues and how new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are being used by the federal government to better secure the resources vital to the delivery of citizen services. In addition, Dave leads work on IRS’s business systems modernization program, as well as other government-wide IT management and operations issues. He previously managed GAO’s reviews of federal data center optimization and border security technology. Prior to joining GAO in 2002, Dave worked for several private sector firms, including PricewaterhouseCoopers, and served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the United States Navy. Dave has a master’s degree in business administration from the Eller School of Management at the University of Arizona, and a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Vassar College.

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

David Hinchman, Director - IT & Cybersecurity, US Government Accountability Office (GAO)

 

 

J.R. Sloan, CIO, State of Arizona

 

 

Teri Takai, Chief Programs Officer, Center for Digital Government

Nick Hughes (1)

Nick Hughes

Coop. Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

Nick is a Cooperative Portfolio Manager within the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO). He works with public entities, suppliers, and all contract stakeholders to ensure smooth management of both the contract administration and solicitation processes.    

Prior to joining NASPO Nick was the Assistant Director at the State of Utah’s central procurement office overseeing its entire cooperative contract program which consisted of over 1300 contracts.  During his time, he developed extensive experience with complex acquisitions and contract disputes. Additionally, Nick oversaw all purchases for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and personally managed all statewide medical contracts. He served a four-year term as an Advisory Board Member for a National Medical Cooperative, the Minnesota Multistate Contracting Alliance for Pharmacy (MMCAP). Nick graduated with a Juris Doctorate from the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah.   

Nick currently resides in Salt Lake City, Utah, with his beautiful wife and 2 boys. In his free time, he can be seen going to the gym, on the mountain slopes, out and about with his family, or spending his life savings on bubble wands and churros at the most magical place on earth, Disneyland. 

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

Pete Dudek, Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

 

 

Nick Hughes, Cooperative Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

 

 

David Resler, Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

 

 

Tony Sauerhoff, CISO, State of Texas

 

 

Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations & General Counsel, GovRAMP

John Israel

John Israel

CISO, State of Minnesota

John Israel is the State of Minnesota's Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). At MNIT, he leads the executive branch cybersecurity teams, the Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force (MCTF), and collaborative efforts to engage with entities statewide to build effective cybersecurity strategies across all levels of government in the state. 

John has over 25 years of IT experience leading, building, and growing cybersecurity and IT functions in municipal, county, and state entities integrating highly technical functions into strategic organizational operations. Before joining MNIT in 2008, John led IT operations for the Washington County Sheriff's Office.  

Most recently, John served as the state's Interim CISO overseeing cybersecurity operations for the state and multiple grant-funded outreach programs that provide cybersecurity support and resources to counties, port cities, and tribal nations throughout Minnesota. John has held many leadership roles in our organization.  

In his roles at MNIT, including Deputy CISO and Security Operations Center (SOC) leader, John has been instrumental in building the state's security operations teams. This includes the state's first Security Operations Center (SOC) and the cybersecurity threat intelligence sharing capabilities within the Minnesota Fusion Center hosted by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. In 2019, John received the Visionary Security Operations Leader of the Year from the Cyber Security Summit. 

John holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia University in Saint Paul, a Master of Science degree from Norwich University in Vermont, and a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification from ISC(2). 

 

Sessions

Government IT/Security Learning Lab 1: Operationalizing Threat Intelligence
October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Explore how state and local security leaders are working to accelerate security threat identification and information sharing and discuss how industry can best support these efforts.

Speakers

 

 

John Israel, CISO, State of Minnesota

 

 

Karen Sorady, VP of MS-ISAC Member Engagement, Center for Internet Security

 

 

Meredith Ward, Deputy Executive Director, NASCIO

Leah McGrath

Leah McGrath

Executive Director, GovRAMP

Leah McGrath serves as Executive Director of GovRAMP, the organization formerly known as StateRAMP.  McGrath was instrumental in launching the initiative in 2020, working in close collaboration with government and industry leaders to establish its original governance structure and cybersecurity policy framework. She oversaw the organization as it evolved into GovRAMP—a nationally recognized, public-private partnership advancing standardized cybersecurity verification for cloud solutions across the broader government ecosystem. 

In recognition of her vision and leadership in strengthening cyber resilience across both the public and private sectors, McGrath was named to NextGov’s 2025 Federal 100 and to Government Technology’s 2023 Top Doers, Dreamers and Drivers list, honoring the individuals driving real impact in the modernization of government technology.  

With over two decades of experience at the intersection of government, policy, and innovation, McGrath brings a proven track record in strategic planning, cross-sector collaboration, and digital transformation. Prior to her role with GovRAMP, she served as the first Deputy Mayor of the City of Fishers, Indiana, where she helped lead the city's transformation into a nationally ranked smart city. Her efforts included spearheading Fishers’ first long-range comprehensive plan and launching city-wide modernization initiatives—efforts that contributed to the city being named Money magazine’s #1 Best Place to Live in America in 2017. 

Throughout her career, McGrath has remained committed to improving outcomes for citizens through secure, scalable, and forward-thinking technology solutions. Today, she continues to serve as a national voice for supplier assurance, cyber policy alignment, and innovation in the public sector. 

 

Sessions

Co-Creators Workshop: Filling in the Gaps
October 3, 2025
11:15 – 11:55 am CST

Building off the discussions throughout the Summit, this collaborative, active session will feature attendees sharing additional ideas and brainstorming on how state and local government leaders can fill in gaps around security, and how industry can serve as an active partner to meet that need.

Speakers

 

 

Leah McGrath, Executive Director

 

 

Glenn Herdrich, CISO, Sacramento County

 

 

Dugan Petty, Board Member, GovRAMP

Ryan Murray

Ryan Murray

CISO, State of Arizona

Mr. Murray joined the Arizona Department of Homeland Security in July 2021 and currently serves as the Deputy Director over the Statewide Information Security and Privacy Office and as the Chief Information Security Officer for the State. He also previously served as the Chief Information Security Officer for the Arizona Department of Revenue for three and a half years. 

In his current role, Deputy Director Murray provides both tactical and operational leadership for the State's cybersecurity office, as well as leads the strategic planning, facilitation, and coordination of cybersecurity efforts throughout the State. 

Prior to joining the State in 2018, Ryan has enjoyed a lifelong career of public service throughout all levels of government in Arizona. He has over 20 years experience in IT and Information Security, is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) and holds a Bachelors in Cyber Security and Information Assurance from Western Governors University. 

 

Sessions

Panel 2: All Security is Local
October 2, 2025
3:50 – 4:40 pm CST

This panel features a candid conversation about how industry and state and local governments can work together to develop more localized security strategies in the midst of changes to federal funding and priorities. We will revisit concepts like ‘whole of state’ security and practical solutions that the public sector has developed to better collaborate and move security forward.

Speakers

 

 

Ryan Murray, CISO, State of Arizona

Dugan Petty

Dugan Petty

Board Member, GovRAMP

Dugan Petty - a former State CIO in Oregon - currently serves on the GovRAMP Board Directors and is a Fellow at the National Academy of Public Administrators and the Center for Digital Government. 

Since retiring from state government in 2012, he continues to foster improvements in both public procurements and technology including. 

  • State Procurement Practices Study and Ranking, Governing Magazine 2013 and 2018.
  • Best Practice Guide for Cloud and As-A-Service Procurement, Center for Digital Government 2014 and 2022.
  • NASPO ValuePoint’s groundbreaking 2016 Utah Cloud Solutions cooperative procurement and other IT&C contracts.

In addition to servicing six years as the Oregon CIO, he served as the Chief Procurement Official in both Alaska and Oregon and the State Risk Manager in Oregon. 

Petty is a past president of both NASCIO and NASPO, and a founding member and past Chair of the Western States Contracting Alliance, now NASPO ValuePoint. 

 

Sessions

Co-Creators Workshop: Filling in the Gaps
October 3, 2025
11:15 – 11:55 am CST

Building off the discussions throughout the Summit, this collaborative, active session will feature attendees sharing additional ideas and brainstorming on how state and local government leaders can fill in gaps around security, and how industry can serve as an active partner to meet that need.

Speakers

 

 

Leah McGrath, Executive Director

 

 

Glenn Herdrich, CISO, Sacramento County

 

 

Dugan Petty, Board Member, GovRAMP

JPL

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper

SLED Field CISO, Axonius

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper, SLED Field CISO, Axonius

 

Sessions

Crisis Simulation: Practice the Possible
October 2, 2025
2:10 – 3:25 pm CST

How should it work when a crisis occurs? Explore the roles of public sector leaders and their private sector partners when something goes wrong. Participants will experience a tabletop exercise that they can take back to their leadership and teams.

Speakers

 

 

Amanda Crawford, CIO, State of Texas DIR 

 

 

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper, SLED Field CISO, Axonius

 

 

Nikki Rosecrans, CISO, Arapahoe County

 

 

Antoinette Webster, Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut

David Resler

David Resler

Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

David Resler is an accomplished manager of IT Security & Infrastructure with over 30 years experience successfully managing and leading large-scale programs. Prior to joining Knowledge Services in 2021, David oversaw the IT Security, Data Center, and Networking groups for 14 years at Performance Assessment Network and its successor organization, PSI Services. There, David managed the NIST 800-53 compliance program and supported multiple Federal organizations including TSA, CBP, FBI, DEA, and FAA. While at Performance Assessment network, David led their migration from NIST 800-53r3 to NIST 800-53r4. David holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Electronics Technology from Indiana State University. He is a member of the Executive Advisory Board for the Eleven Fifty Academy serving on the Cyber Security Committee. He lives with his wife and their two rescue black labs in the suburban Indianapolis area. Fun Fact: David was once told by an FBI agent who was conducting a routine background investigation that he was one of the most boring people he had ever investigated.

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

Pete Dudek, Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

 

 

Nick Hughes, Cooperative Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

 

 

David Resler, Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

 

 

Tony Sauerhoff, CISO, State of Texas

 

 

Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations & General Counsel, GovRAMP

Nikki Rosecrans

Nikki Rosecrans

CISO, Arapahoe County

Nikki is the Manager of Information Security and Compliance/Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Arapahoe County, Colorado—one of the most populous counties in the state’s north central region. Since joining in 2022, she has authored the County’s first Information Security Policy, co-authored the Cyber Incident Response Plan, and launched its inaugural vulnerability management program. Nikki also leads the County’s application rationalization project and serves as the Local Agency Security Officer (LASO), HIPAA Security Officer, and Digital Accessibility Program Manager where she has led the Counties Digital Accessibility Program. Her diverse background spans law enforcement support, emergency management, and peer support, equipping her with a unique, mission-driven perspective on cybersecurity and public service. Nikki holds a bachelor’s degree in communications with an emphasis in Strategic Communications and a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity (CISO) Leadership from Carnegie Mellon University. Nikki currently serves as Vice President of CGAIT and Vice Chair of the Approvals Committee for GovRAMP, fostering collaboration among IT leaders in Colorado government. She is known for her inclusive, strategic leadership and her commitment to building secure, accessible, and effective digital services.

 

Sessions

Crisis Simulation: Practice the Possible
October 2, 2025
2:10 – 3:25 pm CST

How should it work when a crisis occurs? Explore the roles of public sector leaders and their private sector partners when something goes wrong. Participants will experience a tabletop exercise that they can take back to their leadership and teams.

Speakers

 

 

Amanda Crawford, CIO, State of Texas DIR 

 

 

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper, SLED Field CISO, Axonius

 

 

Nikki Rosecrans, CISO, Arapahoe County

 

 

Antoinette Webster, Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut

Tony Sauerhoff

Tony Sauerhoff

CISO, State of Texas

Tony Sauerhoff is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of Texas. As State CISO, Tony oversees the team responsible for developing state agency security policies and standards, facilitating the statewide cybersecurity awareness training program, providing statewide incident response capabilities, collecting and analyzing security incidents from across the state, the coordination of security services, and promoting information sharing across the public and private sector cybersecurity communities. Before moving into his current role, Tony served as the Senior Deputy CISO and the State Cybersecurity Coordinator. He also chaired the Texas Cybersecurity Council. Tony has over 30 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity in the public and private sectors and served in leadership positions with the U.S. Department of Defense and the federal judiciary prior to joining DIR in 2022. He began his career as a communications specialist in the U.S. Air Force. Tony has a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity from Champlain College, a Master of Science in Information Security and Privacy from the University of Texas at Austin and holds CISSP and GSLC cybersecurity certifications.

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

Pete Dudek, Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

 

 

Nick Hughes, Cooperative Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

 

 

David Resler, Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

 

 

Tony Sauerhoff, CISO, State of Texas

 

 

Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations & General Counsel, GovRAMP

Kate Shelby

Kate Shelby

IDOA Deputy Commissioner, State of Indiana

Kate Shelby joined the Indiana Department of Administration as Chief of Staff, Chief Strategy Officer, and Deputy Commissioner of Procurement in January, where she is responsible for IT, Operations, and implementing strategic government efficiency initiatives. Previously, Kate was the CIO and Chief Legal Counsel at the Indiana Department of Transportation, where she led multiple enterprise-wide strategic initiatives, including development of the IT strategic plan to overhaul and consolidate hundreds of applications, cyber security, and agencywide process reengineering initiatives, saving $42 million in one year alone. She was the COO at the Department of Workforce Development after the Great Recession, where she took Indiana from the second worst to #2 in the nation for program integrity. Kate also served as the first General Counsel for a national technology consulting firm, where she earned a merit-based award as the Association of Corporate Counsel Top 10 In-House Counsel in Their 30s. She managed a $15 billion contract portfolio for a Fortune 500 company and has worked as a corporate and government litigator.

 

Sessions

Government Procurement Learning Lab 1: Enhancing Cyber Resilience through Strong Contracting and Operational Readiness October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Learn from Case Studies of how GovRAMP is being incorporated into Ts & Cs and best practices for cloud procurement. Take home sample language and practical applications.

Speakers

 

 

Jeff Allen, IoT COO, State of Indiana

 

 

Wendy Aphayrath, CPO, State of Utah

 

 

Alan Fuller, CIO, State of Utah

 

 

Kate Shelby, IDOA Deputy Commissioner, State of Indiana

JR Sloan

J.R. Sloan

CIO, State of Arizona

J.R. Sloan joined the State of Arizona in 2013 after working in the technology industry for over 20 years in operational and executive-level roles in both private and public organizations. As State CIO, J.R. oversees technology innovation, IT governance, policies, and standards, as well as the delivery and operations of enterprise IT services and programs for ASET. He also serves as Chairman of the State of Arizona Information Technology Authorization Committee (ITAC) which approves and monitors high-cost technology projects statewide.    

Focused on digital transformation for the state, J.R. spearheads projects that make a significant difference for Arizona. He led the creation and implementation of Arizona’s Cloud-First Policy which has resulted in the closure of 90 on-premise data centers and the successful migration of over 2,900 applications and has generated more than $10.8 million in recurring cost savings/avoidance. He standardized the development and security for over 130 state agency websites which have increased the number of online services available to Arizonans by 250% in a two-year period and has brought process efficiencies as much as 15x.  Completing the rollout of Google Workspace as the enterprise email and calendaring solution to 86 executive branch agencies (40,000+ mailboxes)  and now driving the ongoing adoption of the full collaboration capabilities. He also serves as an executive sponsor for key IT initiatives driven by ADOA  like Business One Stop and HRIS Modernization.

J.R. works collaboratively with IT leadership across the executive branch agencies to promote key enterprise initiatives, establish statewide IT policies, and identify enterprise opportunities that will yield better efficiencies and economies of scale.

J.R. is certified in Pragmatic Marketing and Product Management. His educational background includes Electrical Engineering at the University of Arizona and Architecture and Environmental Design at Arizona State University.

During his off hours, J.R. enjoys spending time with his four children and first grandchild as well as hiking, sampling Arizona’s local restaurants and participating in ministries and leadership at his church.

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

David Hinchman, Director - IT & Cybersecurity, US Government Accountability Office (GAO)

 

 

J.R. Sloan, CIO, State of Arizona

 

 

Teri Takai, Chief Programs Officer, Center for Digital Government

Megan Smyth

Megan Smyth

Director of Legal Education, NASPO

Megan R. Smyth is the Director of Legal Education for the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO). She has been with NASPO since 2016, previously serving in the roles of Senior Research Advisor, Director of Research & Innovation, and General Counsel. At NASPO, Megan has focused on the topics of IT procurement, policy and governance, continuing legal education for state procurement attorneys, and the improvement of the relationship between legal and central procurement in the states. She leads the team that develops and plans the NASPO State Procurement Attorney Law Institute, currently in its 12th year.  

Prior to joining the team at NASPO, Megan practiced for eight years as a civil litigator in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, mediating and trying cases related to insurance coverage, liability, property damage, personal injury, and employment law. She received her J.D. from the University of Kentucky Rosenberg College of Law, and a B.A. in Philosophy from Transylvania University. Megan holds bar memberships in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and court admissions in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern District of Kentucky and the Western District of Kentucky.  

 

Sessions

Panel 1: Tales from the Cyber Frontline
October 2, 2025
3:50 – 4:40 pm CST

This panel features a candid conversation about how industry and state and local governments can work together to develop more localized security strategies in the midst of changes to federal funding and priorities. We will revisit concepts like ‘whole of state’ security and practical solutions that the public sector has developed to better collaborate and move security forward.

Speakers

 

 

Fred Brittain, Executive Advisor, GovRAMP

 

 

Megan Smyth, Director of Legal Education, NASPO

 

 

Ken Weeks, CISO, State of New Hampshire

Karen Sorady

Karen Sorady

VP of MS-ISAC Member Engagement, CIS

Karen is the Vice President of MS-ISAC Member Engagement at the Center for Internet Security. Karen served over three decades with the New York State Office of Information Technology Services, operating most recently as the as Chief Information Security Officer. Karen has a wealth of experience and has continued to grow the MS-ISAC network as local governments and counties seek to modernize their cybersecurity practices and services.

 

Sessions

Government IT/Security Learning Lab 1: Operationalizing Threat Intelligence
October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Explore how state and local security leaders are working to accelerate security threat identification and information sharing and discuss how industry can best support these efforts.

Speakers

 

 

John Israel, CISO, State of Minnesota

 

 

Karen Sorady, VP of MS-ISAC Member Engagement, Center for Internet Security

 

 

Meredith Ward, Deputy Executive Director, NASCIO

Teri Takai

Teri Takai

CPO, Center for Digital Government

Teri is the Chief Programs Officer of the Center for Digital Government, a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government. Teri worked for Ford Motor Company in global application development and information technology strategic planning. From Ford, she moved to EDS in support of General Motors. 

Teri’s public service career began in Michigan where she served as the State CIO, then as CIO of the State of California, and subsequently the CIO of the U.S. Department of Defense, the first woman appointed to this role. Teri is a member of several industry advisory boards. 

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

David Hinchman, Director - IT & Cybersecurity, US Government Accountability Office (GAO)

 

 

J.R. Sloan, CIO, State of Arizona

 

 

Teri Takai, Chief Programs Officer, Center for Digital Government

Jessica Van Eerde (5)

Jessica Van Eerde

COO & General Counsel, GovRAMP

Jessica Van Eerde serves as Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel at GovRAMP. With more than a decade of experience navigating the complex intersections of law, procurement, and cybersecurity within State, Local, and Higher Education (SLED) sectors, Jessica plays a critical role in advancing GovRAMP’s mission to strengthen and streamline cybersecurity across the nation. 

A strategic operator and trusted advisor, Van Eerde drives execution across key initiatives, ensuring organizational agility and compliance while scaling programs to meet the growing demands of GovRAMP’s diverse member base. Her multidisciplinary background uniquely positions her to navigate regulatory environments, negotiate complex agreements, and lead with both legal and operational foresight. Van Eerde’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to fostering innovation, advancing cybersecurity readiness, and supporting the evolving needs of the public sector in an increasingly interconnected world. 

 

Sessions

Keynote Discussion: The Federal Frontier, Framework Harmonization, and Emerging Opportunities
October 3, 2025
8:45 – 9:45 am CST 

Looking to the future, this session will explore emerging topics impacting cybersecurity, with a focus on how government leaders and industry are exploring strategies to adapt.

Speakers

 

 

Pete Dudek, Associate Director of Federal Services, A-LIGN

 

 

Nick Hughes, Cooperative Portfolio Manager, NASPO ValuePoint

 

 

David Resler, Senior Director, GovRAMP PMO

 

 

Tony Sauerhoff, CISO, State of Texas

 

 

Jessica Van Eerde, Chief of Operations & General Counsel, GovRAMP

Meredith Ward

Meredith Ward

Deputy Executive Director, NASCIO

Meredith Ward is the Deputy Executive Director for the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) and has served at the association since 2013. Meredith has over 20 years of experience in state, local, federal and international professional associations and is a 2024 Women in Cyber honoree. Prior to her current position, Meredith worked in government and media affairs in Washington, DC, and acquired over 10 years of experience building relationships with Members of Congress, their staff and members of the media. Meredith has worked extensively on issues related to cybersecurity, public sector workforce, technology acquisition, criminal justice and state technology. Meredith holds a Bachelor of Arts degree, with an emphasis on Government, from Centre College.

 

Sessions

Government IT/Security Learning Lab 1: Operationalizing Threat Intelligence
October 2, 2025
12:50 – 1:50 pm CST

Explore how state and local security leaders are working to accelerate security threat identification and information sharing and discuss how industry can best support these efforts.

Speakers

 

 

John Israel, CISO, State of Minnesota

 

 

Karen Sorady, VP of MS-ISAC Member Engagement, Center for Internet Security

 

 

Meredith Ward, Deputy Executive Director, NASCIO

Ken Weeks

Ken Weeks

CISO, State of New Hampshire

Ken Weeks is the Chief Information Security Officer for the State of New Hampshire. He spent most of his life as a Naval Officer, Special Duty, Cryptology, and Information Warfare, and retired as a CAPT (O6). Although most of his time was spent in the Pacific Theater, he also enjoyed several all-inclusive trips to Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After the Navy, he worked as an Executive Leader of Cyber Operations at the National Security Agency (NSA). Ken spent a couple years in the private sector as a Consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton and then moved to New Hampshire and back into public service. He spends the rest of his time as an avid four-season outdoor sportsman with his best friend and spouse, Marie-Claude, two college students (when they are home), and two Irish Wolfhounds.

 

Sessions

Panel 1: Tales from the Cyber Frontline
October 2, 2025
3:50 – 4:40 pm CST

This panel features a candid conversation about how industry and state and local governments can work together to develop more localized security strategies in the midst of changes to federal funding and priorities. We will revisit concepts like ‘whole of state’ security and practical solutions that the public sector has developed to better collaborate and move security forward.

Speakers

 

 

Fred Brittain, Executive Advisor, GovRAMP

 

 

Megan Smyth, Director of Legal Education, NASPO

 

 

Ken Weeks, CISO, State of New Hampshire

Antoinette Webster

Antoinette Webster

Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut

Antoinette Webster, Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut

 

Sessions

Crisis Simulation: Practice the Possible
October 2, 2025
2:10 – 3:25 pm CST

How should it work when a crisis occurs? Explore the roles of public sector leaders and their private sector partners when something goes wrong. Participants will experience a tabletop exercise that they can take back to their leadership and teams.

Speakers

 

 

Amanda Crawford, CIO, State of Texas DIR 

 

 

Jennifer Pittman-Leeper, SLED Field CISO, Axonius

 

 

Nikki Rosecrans, CISO, Arapahoe County

 

 

Antoinette Webster, Assistant Director, Procurement Programs and Services, State of Connecticut