MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Ohio State University at Mansfield, in collaboration with the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, is set to host an insightful fireside chat focusing on state-level initiatives to protect organizations from cyber attacks. This event is part of the fall 2024 speaker series aimed at increasing regional awareness of cybersecurity challenges and development strategies.

The event will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a networking session, offering appetizers and drinks for attendees to connect with peers and industry experts. The fireside chat will begin at 6:00 p.m., featuring discussions on proactive state initiatives to protect local governments, businesses, and private citizens from cyber threats. A Q&A segment at 6:45 p.m. will allow attendees to engage directly with the speakers.

Key topics will include strategies for small businesses, manufacturers, and educators to mitigate 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:

  • Kirk Herath, Cybersecurity Strategic Advisor to Governor Mike DeWine and Chairman of CyberOhio. Herath 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, Cyber Security Outreach Coordinator for the Adjutant General’s Department of Ohio. Bell 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.

Registration for this valuable opportunity is complimentary, thanks to sponsorship from ES Consulting and Microsoft TechSpark grant funds.

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