Webinar
September 30, 2025
1:00 PM ET
As higher education institutions strengthen their ties to federal research funding and sensitive data collaborations, cybersecurity maturity is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. This session offers a practical, leader-focused overview of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework, explaining why it matters even beyond Department of Defense-funded projects, and what higher education leaders need to do to prepare.
Featuring real-world case studies, this presentation highlights the actual risks of non-compliance and the chance to take the lead with Edge’s scalable cybersecurity solutions.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the Stakes: Discover why CMMC is increasingly a key standard for federally funded research and third-party risk management, extending beyond DoD contracts.
- Learn from real failures: Review high-profile cases where non-compliance resulted in lawsuits, reputational damage, and multi-million-dollar penalties.
- Navigate the Complexity: Achieve a clear understanding of CMMC 2.0 levels, their effects on your IT environment, and how they align with frameworks like GLBA and NIST 800-171.
- Tailored for Higher Ed: Discover how Edge helps navigate decentralized systems, limited budgets, and academic culture to create a roadmap that works for your campus.
- Actionable Roadmap: Leave with practical steps your institution can take now to assess, prepare, and align with CMMC – before it becomes mandatory.
Presented By:
- Dr. Dawn Dunkerley, Principal Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO), Edge
- Bobby Rogers, Jr., Virtual Chief Information Security Officer, Edge
Dr. Dawn Dunkerley is a nationally recognized cybersecurity leader dedicated to helping organizations balance risk with mission success. With extensive expertise in cyber operations, cybersecurity, and organizational resilience, she has published widely, spoken at major industry events, and serves as an exam developer for ISC2. Her career includes pioneering cyber mission assurance initiatives for the U.S. Army and leading teams to address mission-critical national security challenges, along with years of experience supporting the cybersecurity needs of higher education institutions.
Bobby Rogers, Jr. is a senior cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience, serving as a trusted auditor and virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) for K-12, higher education, government, and commercial organizations. A retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant, he has built and secured networks worldwide and specializes in governance, risk, and compliance. Bobby is also a published author of multiple cybersecurity certification guides and an experienced trainer, bringing deep expertise in CMMC, NIST, and GLBA compliance.
