Information Security Symposium Tackles the Evolving Technology & Security Landscape

The 11th Information Security Symposium (ISS) was held on June 20-21, 2023, drawing nearly 400 attendees from UC campuses, UCOP, and more than 40 state agencies. While the biennial event was again conducted virtually, there was no shortage of opportunities to connect. Attendees were easily able to live chat with each other via the virtual social wall, browse sponsor booths in video rooms, and network with others through one-on-one messaging. The event was organized by an all-volunteer committee, with members primarily from UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

This year’s theme was Evolve—exploring how we can continue meeting new challenges in an evolving technology and security landscape. After opening remarks by Chancellor Gary May, Vice Provost and CIO Viji Murali, and Ashish Atreja, MD, MPH, chief information and digital health officer for UC Davis Health, technical professionals were able to choose from 50 different compelling sessions. Dr. Atreja also gave a keynote talk about how the future of healthcare will depend on technology. Other keynote speakers included Dr. Garfield Jones, associate chief of strategic technology for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Bill Shinn, a senior principal architect for AWS Security.

The most attended ISS session was Security Risk Management, by Sandy Silk. Silk is a principal cybersecurity advisor at Info-Tech Research Group. She engaged participants in developing risk scenarios, assessing impact, and treatment options. One attendee called the presentation “insightful”. Some other sessions drew inspiration and interest with references to pop culture, such as Navigating the Thin Line Between StarTrek and Terminator and Guardians of the Research Galaxy.

In all, the 2023 Information Security Symposium was a hit! 

"I am so proud of the work that was done by the planning committee volunteers to put on the 2023 Information Security Symposium,” said CISO Cheryl Washington. “The event was a great success, and it was clear that everyone involved was passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with the attendees. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the volunteers, presenters, and keynote speakers who helped make this event possible. Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated. I also would like to thank our campus leaders who continuously support and participate in this important event."

The next Information Security Symposium will be held in 2025. Dates will be shared as we get closer to the event.