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MANSFIELD – The Ohio State University at Mansfield, in collaboration with the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, is excited to announce an insightful fireside chat focused on state-level initiatives designed to protect organizations from cyber attacks.

This event is part of a fall 2024 speaker series aimed at broadening the region’s awareness of cybersecurity challenges and development strategies.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a networking session, where attendees can enjoy appetizers and drinks while connecting with peers and industry experts.

At 6 p.m., the fireside chat will commence, featuring discussions on proactive state initiatives to protect local governments, businesses, and private citizens from cyber threats.

The session will conclude with a Q&A segment at 6:45 p.m., providing an opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the speakers.

The discussion will cover a range of topics, including strategies for small businesses, manufacturers, and educators to reduce cybersecurity risks.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest cybersecurity threats and protection strategies, as well as learn about state-level initiatives to safeguard infrastructure, schools, healthcare systems, businesses, and individuals.

The event will feature two distinguished speakers sharing insights together in a fireside chat format.

  • Kirk Herath, the Cybersecurity Strategic Advisor to Governor Mike DeWine and Chairman of CyberOhio. Kirk is also an Adjunct Professor of Law at Ohio State’s Moritz School of Law and Cleveland State’s Cleveland-Marshall Law School. He retired as VP, Associate General Counsel, and Chief Privacy Officer for Nationwide after 32 years and is now a Principal at Pillars Consulting Group.
  • Mark Bell, the Cyber Security Outreach Coordinator for the Adjutant General’s Department of Ohio. Mark coordinates a wide range of cyber partners throughout Ohio and chairs the Ohio Cyber Range Institute’s Executive Committee.

This event is highly relevant for business owners, school administrators, elected officials, government employees, and private citizens.

Attendees will have the chance to network with industry experts and peers, gaining insights into the latest cybersecurity threats and protection strategies.

Additionally, the event will introduce the Ohio Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program by The Ohio State University. This program aims to help small businesses identify cybersecurity threats, respond to cybercrimes, and develop resilient infrastructure.

Register for this valuable opportunity to enhance your understanding of cybersecurity and connect with key figures in the field.

Registration is complimentary thanks to a sponsorship from ES Consulting and Microsoft TechSpark grant funds.

For more information, please contact Angie Cirone, acirone@richlandareachamber.com, 419-522-3211.