Kelley Misata (she/her)

Dr. Kelley Misata (she/her) is a cyber and information security leader and speaker who combines over 15 years in leadership roles with a passion for facilitating critical conversations. Today, she is expanding her research on the security preparedness of nonprofits into a new venture, Sightline Security, with a mission to help underserved enterprises and community sectors.

Her role as President and Executive Director of The Open Information Security Foundation and past role as Communications Director at The Tor Project allow Kelley to spotlight her expertise in open source security, fundraising, advocacy, policy discussions, and training with an array of stakeholders. Kelley combines professional and research endeavors with a unique perspective as a survivor of cyberstalking. Kelley holds a Ph.D. in Information Security from Purdue University, a Masters in Business Administration and Marketing, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.

1. What do cybersecurity and crypto mean to you?

As a survivor of cyberstalking turned Ph.D. turned cybersecurity business owner, cybersecurity and crypto mean everything to me. What I think people need to know is that being more secure and understanding this dark, complicated, sometimes scary space is possible — and the security field has the responsibility of helping people understand how.

2. If you could wave a magic wand and solve one problem in tech, what would it be?

I’m not sure there is one problem I could pick to solve in tech — primarily because in my view, cybersecurity extends far beyond tech. It’s about people, process, policies, laws, and technology all woven together.

3. What is a piece of advice that you have found especially useful?

You can do this! That advice was given to me by my mentor Becky Bace when I would say, “MBAs in marketing have no business getting a PhD in Infosec; what am I doing here?”

4. What’s a challenge you’ve faced, and how did you deal with it?

Entering security late in my career, I felt as though I had numerous strikes against me — 1) I didn’t start my career in computer science or technology, 2) I was a woman, 3) I was a victim, 4) I was not a developer, and more.

5. What is your favorite source of inspiration?

The incredible thought leaders in this field who allow all of us to stand on their shoulders when they get tired.

Kelley is a Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) member.