Session

The Rise of the Digital Vanguard: Leading in the Age of Innovation

Tech Theater 1

Starts: June 5, 2025 9:00 am
Ends: 10:00 am
Sponsored by
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Abstract:

As technology continues to reshape industries at an unprecedented pace, a new wave of digital leaders—the Digital Vanguard—is emerging to navigate the complexities of the innovation era. This keynote session will explore what it takes to lead in a time defined by rapid technological advancements, evolving customer expectations, and global digital transformation. Thought leaders will discuss how to harness emerging technologies, foster a culture of innovation, and drive sustainable growth while addressing the challenges of security, scalability, and ethical responsibility. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to position themselves and their organizations at the forefront of the digital revolution.

Host

Ashley Rose

CEO, Living Security

As the CEO of Living Security, Ashley is passionate about helping companies build a positive security culture within their organizations. An adaptable problem solver, Ashley is thoughtful and transparent in her approach to running the company and working with clients toward a singular goal: reduce risk by making people a security asset instead of a liability.

Speakers

Anand Singh

Global CISO, Symmetry Systems

I have a track record of driving transformative outcomes in cybersecurity and IT leadership across diverse industries. I specialize in scaling high-performing teams and implementing innovative security solutions that align with business growth, while holding strategic board-level responsibilities. 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐞: • Strategic Leadership: Played a key role in successful IPOs and acquisitions, including Alkami Technology’s IPO, Ingenix’s acquisition by UnitedHealth Group (rebranded as OptumInsight), and Windchill’s acquisition by PTC Inc. • Capital & People Management: Managed large capital budgets and team sizes ranging from 25 to 600 professionals. • Innovation & Development: - Built Alkami Technology's cybersecurity program from scratch, supporting IPO readiness and growth post-IPO. - Launched Optum's first public healthcare cloud solution. - Led the development of award-winning projects, such as the Health4Me mobile app (Appy Award) and - the largest mobile deployment in healthcare. 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬: An expert on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, I have delivered keynote speeches and authored articles on critical topics like bot mitigation. I also advise startups on cybersecurity resilience and go-to-market strategies. • Named Top 50 CISO for exceptional leadership in cybersecurity (2023). • Board member of DaVinci Academy and advisory roles at Gurucul, Whiteboard Venture Partners, and two stealth-stage companies. • Advocate for promoting safe online behavior among school-aged children. 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: • PhD in Computer Science, University of Minnesota • MS in Computer Science, Purdue University • CISSP, CISM, and NACD.DC certified My mission is to set the standard for security in SaaS and Cloud environments, delivering resilient solutions that enable businesses to thrive in a complex digital landscape.

Wayne Sadin

EVP & Chief Information Officer, PriceSmart

Partners with C-Suite & BoD through front-line team members, customers, & investors to define, then deliver Digital Optimization (better/faster/cheaper) & Digital Transformation (culture, products, markets, customer & employee experience). NACD Certified Director 'Cybersecurity Oversight' certification: NACD/Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute 'Board Governance Fellow': National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) 'Qualified Technology Expert Director': Digital Directors Institute Named to 'Information Technology Officers Top 100' list Number 2 in the world on inaugural 'IT Leader Power 100' list (as of September 2020) Named to '21 CIOs to Follow on Twitter' list Named to 'Cloud Global Power 100 Influencer' list Named to 'Top 100: Cloud Influencers' list * Quickly assesses complex technology & business environments, then develops tactical and strategic plans to transform technology into a competitive asset * Uses technology to solve business problems and deliver bottom-line results * Focuses IT departments on the customer instead of on the technology * Integrates technology capabilities with business plans to develop profitable new products * Blends appropriate new and existing technologies to obtain quick, cost-effective results * Re-engineers technology function to provide better service at lower cost * Manages project portfolio to reduce costs and improve technology effectiveness * Improves sales effectiveness and customer service while lowering costs by melding traditional and digital channels into omnichannel * Manages rapid growth & changes in business strategy and technology * Hands-on experience with Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX), IT Governance/Risk/Compliance (GRC), and regulatory issues (including HIPAA, PCI, PII) Specialties: Board of Directors, Advisory Board, CIO, CTO, CDO, Technology Leadership, Business Alignment, IT Architecture, Budgeting, M&A, Governance, PMO, Cybersecurity, CRM, ERP, Oracle, Microsoft, Big Data, Data Warehouse, Business Intelligence, Analytics, Mobile, Virtualization, Cloud, E-commerce, Expert Systems, AI, Robotics, AR/VR, Disruptive Technology, Fintech, Mortgage, Banking, Brokerage, Insurance, Outsourcing, Logistics, Transportation, Cash & Check Processing, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX), HIPAA, PCI-DSS, Compliance, Energy, Mission-critical Transaction Systems

Art Harvey

Chief Information Security Officer, Dovenmuehle

Art Harvey is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Dovenmuehle, where he oversees the organization’s information security strategy, protects sensitive data, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Art is focused on maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the company's information systems, safeguarding both the company's and its clients' data. With over 25 years of experience in IT security and infrastructure, he has a proven track record of leading security initiatives across various industries. Holding credentials such as CISSP, Security+, Network +, CEH, IBM Cloud, ITIL, PROSCI, he maintains technical and security relevant expertise. Before joining Dovenmuehle, Art held IT leadership roles at IBM, Santander, JC Penney, Kraft Foods, Cadbury, and Ericsson, providing a strong background in both leadership and technical solutions.

Christopher Russell

Chief Information Security Officer, tZero Group

• FinTech infosec executive experience with private equity markets and digital securities. • Blockchain security specialization, with further research under PhD program. • DevOps management and technical experience around SDLC's and automated CI/CD pipelines. • Cloud Security Certifications for AWS | Azure | GCP. • Cylance, Carbon Black, Palo Alto XDR, SentinelOne, Crowdstrike, and Windows Defender ATP training and certifications. • Chronicle, Splunk, Microsoft Sentinel, Devo, and Greylog service ownership and automation oversight. • Master of Science Degree in Cyber Security, University of Dallas. • Bachelor of Arts Degree in Security Management, American Military University

Dr. Pamela Luckett-Smith

Chief Digital Engagement Officer, Dallas College

I am a forward-thinking leader in higher education, focused on harnessing technology as a tool to expand access, increase student success, and strengthen the human connections that make learning transformative. With more than 25 years of leadership experience, I have been at the forefront of institutional innovation, leveraging digital advancements while ensuring that faculty expertise, student engagement, and exceptional service remain at the heart of education. ​ Technology has the power to break down barriers, streamline processes, and scale learning opportunities, but true success comes from an integrated approach—one that fuses digital transformation with a deep commitment to student support, faculty development, and workforce alignment. I have led initiatives that modernize institutions, enhance student services, and create high-impact learning environments that are efficient, accessible, and deeply engaging. ​ Collaboration is the foundation of progress. By forging strong partnerships between faculty, administrators, industry leaders, and the community, I ensure that education remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of both students and employers. By combining innovation with student-centered strategies and a commitment to excellence in service, we can create an ecosystem where every learner has the tools, resources, and support to thrive. ​ Looking ahead, I am energized by the possibilities at the intersection of technology and human expertise. The future of higher education demands bold leadership—one that embraces digital transformation while strengthening personal engagement and lifelong learning. By leading with vision and purpose, we can reimagine education in a way that is dynamic, inclusive, and future-focused, ensuring that students are not only prepared for the workforce but also empowered to lead, innovate, and create lasting impact. As a leader, my mission is clear: to drive transformation, empower students, and position institutions for long-term success. Together, we can shape an education system that is agile, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the people and communities it serves.