Sponsored by the Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management Master's Program at the George Washington University’s College of Professional Studies in partnership with Cyber Security Forum Initiative (CSFI).

The Impact of Cyber-Enabled Information Operations on Elections Security and Democratic Governance
This panel event brings together defense contractors, government officials, and cyber security professionals to discuss the growing threat of disinformation and deception operations against election security. The event aims to create a dialogue around the capabilities of modern adversaries to disrupt decision-making at the highest levels of national security.

The panelists will explore the use of social media as a tool for impairment, disruption, and disabling of the adversary's ability to lead and direct operations. Through a realistic video scenario developed by experts in various fields of warfare, including members of the military, the intelligence community, and the private sector, the audience will be immersed in a simulated environment where democracy is contested through deception, ideology, and cyber operations to disrupt elections' security.

As AI technology advances (like the developments with Chat GPT, etc.), it will become increasingly difficult to distinguish between real and fake information. This will make it easier for bad actors to manipulate public opinion and interfere with democratic processes like elections. As a result, it is critical to develop strategies to anticipate and counter advances in disinformation campaigns.

A cocktail reception will follow the event. Register now to reserve your seat. Enjoy a beautiful view of Washington, DC, network, and become part of this critical discussion.

WELCOMING REMARKS:

• Dr. Paul de Souza, Cyber Security Forum Initiative (CSFI) President/Founder
• Connie Uthoff, Director, Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management Master's Program (moderator)
   

PANELISTS:

• Vishal Amin, Head of Security Solutions for Microsoft Federal, Presidential Scholar, Former Special Operations Officer, and F/A-18 Hornet Pilot (USMC).
• Nick Andersen, Chief Operating Officer, Invictus International Consulting; Nonresident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council
• Madison Horn, Founder & CEO at RoseRock Advisory Group | Former U.S. Senate Nominee | Global Cybersecurity Leader
• Kim Gajewski, Deputy Director for Cyber Policy and Strategy at U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Glenn S. Gerstell, Senior Adviser at CSIS | National Security Writer | Board Member | Former General Counsel of the National Security Agency (NSA)
• Lt. Gen. Michael Groen (ret.), USMC, Former Director of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, DOD, former Deputy Chief of Computer Network Operations of the National Security Agency (NSA)
• Mike Smyczynski, Lt. Col. (ret.) USMC, Senior Information Operations Professional
   

GW's Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management (CSIM) master's program was developed for working professionals from the military, homeland security and private sectors who want to gain the expertise to address current and emerging challenges in cyber space.