Building a Community through Content and Connection
A recap of the Leading Tech Conference

Community provides a sense of belonging, which is why we’re excited to continue offering our members in-person conference experiences that create a sense of connection. These events give members the opportunity to gain expert insights into key topics in cybersecurity and IT audit, develop practical skills they can apply immediately, and build meaningful professional relationships through networking.

I have personally experienced the power of connection by witnessing the incredible energy and engagement of attendees at our in-person conferences. These events create space for members to make new connections and re-ignite existing relationships. Whether it is sitting at the same table, chatting in the lunch line, taking pictures in front of the ISACA sign, or connecting during networking time, each interaction offers an opportunity to build rapport. And the relationships you build and foster can prove to be so valuable!

​At our most recent in-person conference on November 13, 2025, Leading Tech, a She Leads Tech event, we welcomed 100 registrants! Attendees gathered to hear sessions highlighting the expertise of female industry leaders on the topic of “Transforming the Future of Cybersecurity & IT Audit through Innovation.”

Camille Stewart Gloster – Keynote Session.
Photo courtesy of Debbie Sallis

The day started with a thought-provoking keynote that explored how AI is changing the risk landscape and breaking down silos between traditional risk domains. Next, attendees experienced a fireside chat focused on how leaders can ground themselves in a clear strategy that guides decision-making, rather than taking a tool-first approach. The session right before lunch was a panel discussion that explored the perspectives of Red and Blue team leaders and how they are evolving their programs in response to the evolving threat landscape.

After lunch and networking, the conference concluded with a dynamic debate examining how cybersecurity and IT audit work together when addressing real-world challenges. The lineup of speakers left attendees energized and eager for more as they departed from George Mason University’s Arlington Campus.

Throughout the day, the conference intentionally created “connection moments” that encouraged meaningful engagement among attendees, speakers, partners, and sponsors. I personally had the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and build new relationships that reinforced the value of these shared experiences. The ripple effect of these interactions can be incredibly powerful when navigating and shaping a career.

Anna Wheeler and Stacey Champagne. Photo courtesy of Debbie Sallis.

The Leading Tech Conference wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our volunteers and the support of our following partner organizations, including WiCyS Mid-Atlantic, The Cyber Guild, and the Cybersecurity Association, who supported event planning. ISACA GWDC would also like to thank the following conference sponsors: CAS Strategies and Big ID, and ISACA GWDC sponsors: Kearney & Company, Sikich, KPMG, and Significance.

Leading Tech attendees. Photo courtesy of Antoniela Castellar Arrieta.

Looking ahead, ISACA GWDC remains committed to delivering high-impact, in-person conference experiences that bring our community together. Future Tech DC, the chapter’s flagship event, is designed to provide timely insights, practical learning, and meaningful opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders across cybersecurity and IT audit. Members are encouraged to stay engaged with upcoming programming and participate in hands-on workshops and networking experiences as they become available. Together, we will continue to strengthen our community and support the evolving needs of the profession. It’s an event you don’t want to miss!

Laura Sawka
ISACA GWDC, Director of Special Events