Flying the Cybersecurity Rocketship: Neurodivergent Leadership and Human-Centered Compliance
In higher education, cybersecurity and compliance programs are often launched at high speed without a complete roadmap. This session explores how two managers, one in user support, one in technical compliance, teamed up to build a sustainable, inclusive program while the cybersecurity rocket ship was already in flight. Grounded in neurodivergent-informed leadership practices, our approach emphasizes flexibility, empathy, and trust. We’ll share how we’ve created a culture where staff feel safe to ask questions, seek support, and make mistakes, which is critical for any successful security or compliance effort. Instead of rigid expectations or one-size-fits-all solutions, we’ve leaned into body doubling, timeboxing, visual task tracking, and clear communication to support a range of working styles and sensory needs. This session offers real-world examples of how to transform compliance and security from something people avoid into something they feel invited to participate in. Attendees will leave with practical tools to foster compassionate accountability and build momentum in complex, decentralized environments.
Presenters
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Manda Johnson
Associate Director of User Support,
University of Wisconsin-Madison
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STP Tate-Pederson
Associate Director - Compliance and Cybersecurity,
University of Wisconsin-Madison