Session: From the Hood to Cyber :: Why It's a Career Every Resilient Leader Should Consider
Dr. Cheryl Cooper is a charismatic speaker who connects with audiences by providing candid insight into how the “Hood” made her, the importance of mentors, allies, and the representation of the woman in STEM and cybersecurity.
Her younger years were plagued with unhealthy decisions that caused harm to her and those around her. As she navigated young adulthood and motherhood, she made better choices that would pave the way for her future success. These lessons helped her to step into her power as a woman as she built confidence and learned to use her voice. It took her a while to learn that she determines her destination through choice. While she could not escape traveling through the intersectionality of being Black and a woman, it influenced her career and personal growth in profound ways. Now she shines as Dr. Cheryl Cooper, a woman making a social impact that is changing what is possible for women.
It is said that we have defining moments in our life. Those moments of time when a circumstance presents itself that forces us to decide. Dr. Cooper shares her defining moments from her memoir and the choices that followed. Those choices yielded powerful lessons.
Bio
Dr. Cheryl Cooper, a US Naval Veteran, holds a Doctorate in Computer Science, Information Assurance. She is a Business Information Security Officer and has earned several security certifications in CISSP,CISSA, and CDPSE. She has 15+ years of Cybersecurity experience and 12+ years teaching higher education as an adjunct professor. Dr. Cooper also sits on multiple cybersecurity boards.
Dr. Cooper is founder of Women in Security Mentors. As speaker and panelist, she uses her platform to advocate and create equal opportunities for women and minorities in technology careers. She is passionate about helping others, clearly demonstrating that through a variety of community initiatives. Dr. Cooper is the recipient of multiple awards including being a champion and a bridge builder.
An esteemed and well respected professional and mentor, Dr. Cooper also adds author to her resume. Her memoir, Hood to Hooded, is set to release in Fall of 2022.