The Homeland Security Today awards annually recognize the people who devote their lives to protecting our people, our resources, and our way of life. From heroic efforts on duty to invaluable efforts behind the scenes, annually we gather to celebrate excellence, honor, and the daily successes of those working on the front lines and in a support capacity to ensure the safety of all Americans. We are proud to honor the following 2024 award recipients.
HOMELAND SECURITY PERSON OF THE YEAR
The GTSC Homeland Security Today Person of the Year is awarded to people who serve the homeland security mission in an exemplary fashion. These individuals have directly improved, executed, and/or engaged the proper people, agencies, or departments necessary to tangibly improve the nation’s prevention, protection, mitigation, or response capacity to make America safer.
PERSON OF THE YEAR – NATIONAL
Ken Wainstein, Under Secretary of Intelligence and Analysis, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Ken Wainstein has dedicated nearly two decades to public service in homeland security, 
holding key positions such as Homeland Security Advisor during the George W. Bush Administration and now serving as Under Secretary of Intelligence and Analysis at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). One could argue that Wainstein’s responsibilities lie at the heart of homeland security: intelligence information sharing that could ultimately prevent the next attack on the United States. He works tirelessly with the Secretary, DHS senior leadership, DHS components, and state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners with the homeland security intelligence and information needed to keep the country safe, secure, and resilient. Wainstein serves as the Chief Intelligence Officer for DHS and reports directly to the DHS Secretary and Director of National Intelligence.
Throughout his career, Wainstein has consistently brought insightful and incisive expertise to intelligence and information sharing, law enforcement, governmental reform, and policymaking, shaping the field of homeland security. Drawing on an extensive background that includes roles at the White House, Department of Justice, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wainstein’s work is deeply informed by both a strategic understanding of the national security landscape and practical knowledge of how to advance government operations effectively. Prior to his confirmation, Wainstein served as a law school adjunct professor teaching national security law for twelve years, as a commissioner on the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense, as a member of the Public Interest Declassification Board, and in a number of other national security organizations.
Wainstein’s tenure at DHS has been marked by a profound impact on policy and operational approaches, benefiting the Department with his technical expertise, policy acumen, and awareness of the Intelligence Community’s responsibilities. His comprehensive approach has strengthened DHS’s intelligence and analytical capabilities, always prioritizing the pressing need for an innovative and robust approach to homeland security. Wainstein’s steadfast commitment to the mission, characterized by honesty, integrity, and effectiveness, consistently places the country’s needs first as he seeks actionable solutions to the nation’s security challenges.
Wainstein’s service is a credit to the United States, performed with honor, dignity, and a level of determination that is essential to securing the homeland.
PERSON OF THE YEAR – STATE
Major Frank Hooton, Commanding Officer, Texas Border Joint Operations Centers
Major Frank S. Hooton serves as the commanding officer for soldiers assigned to the Texas 
Border Joint Operations Centers, which oversee six border operations centers along the Texas border. In this role, Hooton has been a pivotal figure in advancing interagency intelligence sharing and collaborative efforts across a wide spectrum of security issues, including counter-terrorism, transnational criminal organization (TCO) activity, cybersecurity, undocumented immigration, and narcotics. His leadership has significantly enhanced cross-agency intelligence efforts, ensuring cohesive and proactive measures are in place to address the complex challenges at the border.
In the field of cybersecurity, Hooton has led research that achieved notable publication milestones. He guided a team of students whose findings were initially published by U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cyber Command and subsequently by Homeland Security Cyber Command, eventually contributing to the textbook Issues in Maritime Cyber Security. Hooton also personally briefed the USCG Commanding Admiral on highly sensitive intelligence findings that prompted policy-level changes implemented nationwide by the USCG the following day. As a recognized subject matter expert, Hooton has lectured on cybersecurity at the DHS Center of Excellence Maritime Security Center, sharing critical insights and advancing cybersecurity knowledge.
A dedicated leader within the military intelligence community, Hooton is the founding member of the Rio Grande Valley Military Intelligence Corps Association (MICA) chapter, serving as its president since its inception in 2017. His service and leadership have earned him multiple knighthoods, the National Infantry Association’s Order of Saint Maurice, the International Paratrooper Association’s Spartan Order, and the prestigious Knowlton Award from MICA.
MAJ Frank S. Hooton exemplifies the highest standards of moral character, military intelligence leadership, and law enforcement professionalism. His tireless commitment to national security and his influential role in intelligence have made him an invaluable asset to his country, setting a standard for excellence in service.
PERSON OF THE YEAR – LOCAL
Bridgett Lewis, Manager, Homeland Security, Port of Long Beach, CA
As Manager of Homeland Security at the Port of Long Beach, one of the nation’s busiest 
and most strategic ports, Bridgett Lewis oversees security operations and directs the Central California Maritime Coordination Center (MCC). In her role, she leads multi-agency coordination efforts, collaborating with over 30 local, state, and federal law enforcement and maritime security agencies to ensure a secure environment across the port.
Beyond her operational role, Lewis’s influence shapes the future of maritime safety as the head of the committee responsible for updating California’s Maritime Security Strategy. As a state lead on the California Coastal Regional Maritime Domain Awareness committee, she works closely with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to advance state-level security initiatives that safeguard California’s coastlines and ports. Her leadership in these initiatives highlights her strategic vision and expertise in strengthening California’s maritime defenses.
Lewis also extends her impact to academia, serving as a part-time Homeland Security instructor at California State University, Long Beach. Her role in higher education enables her to train and mentor future security professionals, fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to handle the evolving challenges of homeland security. Her academic involvement underscores her commitment to the long-term development of the homeland security workforce.
In addition to her professional achievements, Lewis serves her community as a Councilmember for Torrance District 2, where she chairs the Citizen Enrichment Committee and sits on the Transportation and Community Planning Committees. Her civic leadership further extends to regional transportation issues, as she contributes to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). With bachelor’s and master’s degrees, along with a graduate certificate in Human Resources, Lewis exemplifies a holistic approach to leadership, blending her expertise in security, governance, and community service. Her contributions make her a true asset to homeland security.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
The MVP award is given to an official or team that modernizes and improves the operations and performance of an agency, component, or division to increase capacity, speed delivery, use innovation and improve performance. These leaders also focus on the future – developing strategies and plans to address our constantly changing, dynamic threat environment.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – FEDERAL
Erika Botts, Chief Technology Officer & Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Erika Botts, the visionary Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and pioneering Chief Artificial 
Intelligence Officer (CAIO) at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has demonstrated exceptional leadership, driving the modernization and transformation of the agency’s technological landscape. Her innovative strategic vision directly elevates operations, performance, and mission effectiveness. Botts stands as a beacon of innovation and efficiency, advancing USCIS through her fearless development and refinement of systems and technology protocols, setting new standards for government technology management in IT delivery and innovation.
Botts’ dedication to enhancing the customer experience is evident in her focus on human-centered and service design techniques, applied across all programs. This commitment to creating a seamless and empowering experience for applicants has driven USCIS forward, integrating data-driven insights and customer-centric digital solutions that prioritize a user-friendly approach.
As CAIO, Botts has taken USCIS’s use of AI to unprecedented levels, championing innovation while managing risk and complying with executive orders and policies. Under her leadership, USCIS launched a groundbreaking AI pilot program that uses generative AI tools to simulate realistic asylum and refugee interviews, training new officers in scenarios that mirror actual conversations with asylum seekers. This innovative project underscores Botts’ transformative approach to adopting cutting-edge technologies for unmatched efficiency, effectiveness, and care when evaluating applicants.
Botts’ impact extends beyond technology; she has cultivated an inclusive, collaborative culture within USCIS, bringing together federal employees and contractors to encourage idea generation and feedback. Whether at USCIS HQ in Camp Springs, MD, or virtually on Teams, Botts fosters an environment that values cross-functional collaboration and partnership, consistently improving the applicant experience and driving mission-oriented results. Her holistic approach to technology management includes forward-thinking strategies and comprehensive partnerships, positioning USCIS to address future challenges from technological disruptions to evolving immigration policies while bolstering IT security.
Her visionary leadership and dedication to human-centered design have earned her Most Valuable Player recognition, but more importantly, propelled USCIS to the forefront of technological innovation in government, modernizing operations and setting new benchmarks for public service excellence. Botts’ unwavering commitment to increasing capacity, accelerating delivery, fostering innovation, and driving performance improvements empowers USCIS to fulfill its mission with elevated efficiency, effectiveness, and impact.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – GLOBAL
Keith Hood, Deputy Assistant Director, Border Security Division, INTERPOL Washington
Keith Hood has driven significant advancements in international security by integrating 
INTERPOL’s criminal investigative data into the national law enforcement systems of vulnerable foreign partner countries as the Deputy Assistant Director of INTERPOL Washington’s Border Security Division and leader of Project TERMINUS.
Project TERMINUS seeks to identify, evaluate, and remediate information-sharing gaps that are impeding the ability of the partner countries’ law enforcement and border security authorities to detect and deter the illicit international travel of foreign terrorist fighters and transnational criminals. Hood has built a cohesive and highly effective team, implementing innovative solutions to combat illicit international travel and transnational crime. His strategic vision and ability to manage complex multinational engagements have been central to Project TERMINUS’s success, aligning each aspect of the initiative with U.S. national security interests and fostering collaboration across diverse teams, stakeholders, and nations.
One of Hood’s key achievements as a team leader was guiding the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to become the first African country to automate reporting of stolen and lost travel document data to INTERPOL’s Stolen and Lost Travel Documents (SLTD) database. Within two hours of activation, over 154,000 previously unreported records were uploaded—a milestone made possible by Hood’s leadership and his team’s virtual implementation of the solution, demonstrating his capability to navigate complex logistical challenges.
In 2022, Hood engaged with the Kyrgyz Republic, overseeing the deployment of a database application designed to handle more than 5 million records of stolen and lost travel documents. Within days, this system generated over 150,000 new records and uploaded 4 million historical records, securing the nation’s data management needs. This deployment exemplifies Hood’s leadership in tailoring solutions to meet the unique requirements of each country, underscoring his commitment to creating meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
Hood also directed a successful Service Delivery Enclave deployment in Jakarta, Indonesia, where his team relocated TERMINUS-provided screening solutions to a centralized location, enabling 98% of travelers entering and exiting Indonesia to be screened against INTERPOL’s databases. This achievement highlights Hood’s capacity to lead his team in implementing impactful security measures that extend beyond borders, benefiting global security.
In Panama, Hood led his team to achieve a 30% increase in SLTD records within INTERPOL’s global database, adding nearly 50,000 records in collaboration with Panamanian authorities. This accomplishment not only reflects Hood’s technical acumen but also showcases his diplomatic leadership, as he established strong working relationships with Panamanian officials to enhance mutual security efforts.
Hood’s leadership extends to fostering global partnerships, evidenced by his organization of a multi-national law enforcement and border security workshop for ASEAN nations. This event, attended by senior representatives from eleven Southeast Asian countries, highlighted Project TERMINUS and initiated discussions about adopting the program’s solutions on a regional scale. His proactive outreach has expanded the program’s reach, engaging nations like Thailand, Cambodia, Benin, Vietnam, Colombia, and Egypt in future collaboration discussions.
Through his leadership, Hood has built a team that is not only technically proficient but also adaptable, resourceful, and mission driven. His ability to motivate and guide his team has resulted in critical advancements in international border security. Hood’s contributions to Project TERMINUS have set a new standard for international security cooperation, enhancing the operational capacities of partner nations and strengthening global security frameworks.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – GLOBAL
Nael Samha, Executive Director, Targeting and Analysis Systems Program Directorate, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Nael Samha has been a dedicated leader in national security for nearly two decades, 
championing the integration of advanced technology to achieve mission-critical results. His commitment to enhancing the secure and efficient transit of individuals and cargo across U.S. borders has had a profound impact on border operations and inter-agency coordination within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Throughout his career at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Nael has focused on optimizing the effectiveness of officers and agents, providing critical support for homeland security initiatives worldwide. His leadership has been instrumental in humanitarian deployments, including Iraqi Refugee processing in the Middle East, Operation Safe Return in Haiti, the Syrian Refugee process, Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) at the southwest border, Operation Allies Welcome, and recent efforts such as Operation Safe Landing and Uniting for Ukraine.
Since beginning his government service in 2007, Nael has led CBP’s technology-driven approach to border security. Over a decade as CBP’s Director of Passenger Systems and Biometrics, he served as the subject matter expert for passenger travel data and pioneered the deployment of the first government biometrics-enabled passenger systems, including the Traveler Verification Service (TVS). His forward-thinking approach has advanced CBP’s mission results through innovative technology solutions.
In January 2021, he became Acting Executive Director of the Targeting and Analysis Systems Program Directorate (TASPD) and was officially appointed Executive Director in 2023. In this role, he oversees mission-critical systems processing billions of daily transactions, integrating data from over 80 sources, and supporting more than 50,000 users worldwide. Nael’s focus on cross-component technology and data optimization has transformed border security operations, enhancing CBP’s capacity to respond to surges in border activity with efficiency and compassion.
Under Nael’s leadership, TASPD has fundamentally reshaped CBP’s operations. His championing of the Unified Processing (UPRO) initiative—a groundbreaking cross-component technology solution for migrant processing surges—has accelerated intake, processing, and data sharing across DHS. UPRO combines previously separate systems used by the Office of Field Operations and Border Patrol into a scalable, modern cloud-based platform. CBP officers and agents now benefit from enhanced situational awareness and processing efficiencies, supported by advanced features like updated facial recognition and real-time National Targeting Center notifications for derogatory matches. As of July 2024, UPRO has processed 2.3 million individuals and saved 77,000 working hours, translating to more than $3 million in agency efficiencies.
The UPRO Mobile Intake initiative, led by Nael, has further streamlined the intake process by providing agents with mobile capabilities. In 2024 alone, Mobile Intake was used to process over one million encounters, saving approximately 33,000 labor hours. The adoption of Mobile Intake has surged from 12% at its 2022 launch to 87% today, underscoring its impact on improving processing efficiency across CBP.
Nael also leads the United for Ukraine (U4U) initiative, supporting national security and humanitarian efforts by developing an immigration hotlist, conducting continuous vetting of immigration requests, and tracking vetting statuses. As of August 2024, Nael’s team has processed over 289,000 immigration requests related to this initiative.
Nael Samha exemplifies the highest standards of service and dedication to national security, continually driving technological advancements that strengthen border security and enhance the operational effectiveness of CBP. His visionary leadership and commitment to innovation have established him as an invaluable asset to DHS and a key figure in the future of secure and efficient border management.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – STATE
California Maritime Security Council Maritime Domain Awareness (CMSC MDA)
The California Maritime Security Council Maritime Domain Awareness (CMSC MDA) Subcommittee is recognized for its groundbreaking efforts to enhance maritime domain 
awareness across California. Formed in 2022 by a multi-jurisdictional team, the MDA Subcommittee includes key representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard District 11, California Office of Emergency Services (CALOES), San Diego Law Enforcement Coordination Center (SDLECC), San Francisco Marine Exchange, NOAA, the Port of Long Beach, and the Port of San Diego. Together, these members have created a powerful, cohesive force aimed at improving the safety, security, and environmental resilience of California’s ports, bays, marinas, and inland waterways.
Over the past year, the MDA Subcommittee has shown an extraordinary commitment to state security by pioneering comprehensive, multi-tiered information-sharing strategies that have enhanced safety across California’s maritime domain. A cornerstone of the subcommittee’s success is its leadership and dedication to elevating California’s situational awareness through the California Coastal Regional Common Operating Picture (CCR COP). This dynamic platform integrates intelligence, surveillance, and navigation systems, providing real-time data that is accessible to federal, state, and local agencies. By offering a shared operating picture, CCR COP has proven invaluable for maritime operations during high-profile events, such as Fleet Weeks in San Francisco and San Diego, enabling seamless coordination across numerous stakeholders.
The MDA Subcommittee excels in fostering a collaborative environment among state, local, federal, and private partners. This commitment to partnership has significantly strengthened California’s ability to preempt, mitigate, and respond to both predictable and unforeseen maritime threats. Through the establishment of a robust information-sharing network, the MDA Subcommittee has developed a security ecosystem that benefits all facets of California’s maritime industry, setting a high standard for other states to follow.
One of the subcommittee’s most notable achievements this past year has been its contributions to security and emergency management. Leveraging the CCR COP platform, the subcommittee has improved emergency response capabilities by providing real-time situational awareness, a critical asset in maritime incident management. For example, the Port of San Diego’s recent tabletop exercise, which utilized CCR COP to test early warning protocols, exemplifies the practical and life-saving impact of these advancements. Additionally, MDA Subcommittee members have shared their expertise at conferences and training exercises across California, promoting education and innovative practices that strengthen maritime domain awareness statewide.
The CMSC MDA Subcommittee’s dedication to information-sharing and collaborative security has not only improved California’s maritime safety and resilience but also set a national benchmark for maritime domain awareness. Through innovative technology use, strong partnerships, and a commitment to preparedness, the MDA Subcommittee has ensured that California’s maritime sector remains resilient, safe, and ready to confront emerging threats, earning the team the title of Most Valuable Player: State.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – DATA ADVANCEMENT
Michelle Zebrowski, Chief Data Officer, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Under Michelle Zebrowski’s leadership, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has achieved transformative milestones in data governance and cybersecurity, setting a new 
standard for data management across the agency. Among her most impactful contributions is the development and publication of CBP’s first Data Governance Directive. This Directive establishes clear standards, roles, and responsibilities for data management in alignment with federal and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mandates, formalizing the Chief Data Officer role and creating a robust data governance board. Zebrowski’s initiative has laid a cohesive foundation for all CBP data initiatives, ensuring they are strategically structured and aligned.
Zebrowski also led the development of a Data Governance Framework that emphasizes a consistent approach to data management across stakeholders, structured around six guiding principles. This framework enhances CBP’s ability to accurately define, analyze, and utilize its data, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making agency-wide.
Her proactive approach enabled the creation of a detailed data inventory that now serves as the backbone for advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and data-sharing initiatives. Collaborating with over 20 offices and cataloging more than 800 datasets, Zebrowski developed comprehensive dashboards that offer in-depth insights into metadata and connect key stakeholders. Additionally, she has cataloged over 200 data-sharing agreements across CBP, developing a searchable dashboard that promotes transparency and facilitates effective data sharing across DHS components.
In cybersecurity, Zebrowski has championed the implementation of a zero-trust data framework, in line with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directive 22-09. Her efforts in tagging, categorizing, and securing CBP’s datasets have been essential in safeguarding sensitive information across the agency’s vast network.
In the realm of AI, Zebrowski founded a Data Analytics Center of Excellence to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing on AI and machine learning (ML) initiatives. Through her leadership, the Office of Information Technology developed an AI Strategy rooted in a solid governance framework, ensuring ethical and responsible use of AI. Her comprehensive inventory of AI use cases and her collaboration with the Chief AI Officer reflect her commitment to fostering innovation while enhancing CBP’s readiness for AI governance.
FEDERAL SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION
Federal Small Business Champion of the Year is awarded annually to a federal official who shows a distinct commitment and tangible results toward improving the environment and success for small businesses in the federal homeland and national security market.
Donna Ragucci, Executive Director, OSDBU, U.S. Treasury & Melissa Oliva, Deputy Director, OSDBU, U.S. Treasury
Words like innovation and collaboration are thrown around a lot – yet this year’s Federal 
Small Business Champion of the Year – not only has adopted these words, they have “hit the streets” with the U.S. Treasury’s 50 State Initiative. The powerhouses behind this effort are Donna Ragucci, the U.S. Treasury OSDBU and Deputy OSDBU Lisa Oliva. This dynamic duo are meeting small businesses where they are – literally — and aims to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs across the United States by providing them with the knowledge, resources, and connections they need to succeed in government contracting. By partnering with universities and key industry leaders, the initiative seeks to maximize the participation of small businesses in government contracts, ensuring that these businesses have the practical tools and strategies required to compete effectively.
Through a series of summits held nationwide, the Treasury 50 State Initiative provides attendees with critical insights into the government procurement process, introduces them to potential partners and decision-makers, and offers guidance on navigating the complexities of government contracting. The ultimate goal is to foster a more inclusive and competitive marketplace where small businesses can thrive, driving economic growth and innovation across the country.
EXCELLENCE IN OUTREACH
Much of partnership requires knowledge and understanding. Communication between industry and government to achieve the best products and services requires outreach in all stages: requirements building, request for information, effective industry days, outreach through engagement and much more. The Excellence in Outreach award recognizes the agency, department, or individual that has excelled at engaging, explaining and educating to benefit the mission of securing the nation.
EXCELLENCE IN OUTREACH – FEDERAL
Capacity Building Organization, CISA
Niki Lane, Branch Chief, Acquisition and Budget, Capacity Building; Cristen Winegrad, Deputy Branch Chief, Acquisition and Budget, Capacity Building; Alex Bortz, Acquisition and Budget, Capacity Building
The Capacity Building (CB) organization within CISA’s Cybersecurity Division (CSD) relies 
on robust industry partnerships to fulfill its critical mission of bolstering national cybersecurity resilience. These partnerships are facilitated through CB’s Acquisition and Budget (AB) branch, which drives the acquisition function and, through its Cybersecurity Acquisition Center of Excellence (CA-COE), enhances collaboration with industry partners. In FY 2024, AB’s efforts included launching the “Industry Connects” meeting series, maintaining the CB Vendor Outreach Program, hosting a virtual Industry Day, and publishing mission-critical acquisition updates to strengthen transparency and foster lasting industry relationships.
The Industry Connects Meeting Series was a major component of AB’s outreach in FY 2024, offering CB contract holders unique opportunities for direct engagement with AB leadership. This series provided an open forum for discussing challenges, successes, and feedback in real time, with AB leadership dedicating one-on-one time throughout the year to address questions, brainstorm solutions, and refine management processes. With 20 meetings held during the year, this program was met with positive feedback from industry partners, one of whom noted, “I am so thrilled the government is reaching out to us to hear about challenges. I haven’t seen many government agencies doing this.”
The CB Vendor Outreach Program is another vital initiative established by the AB team to ensure structured, tailored, and timely industry engagement that meets CB’s evolving cybersecurity needs. This program serves as a platform for market research, acquisition strategy development, and the cataloging of industry capabilities to define future requirements for cybersecurity programs. In a controlled environment that ensures equitable information distribution and eliminates unfair advantages, vendors are invited to showcase their technologies, products, and services. In FY 2024 alone, AB hosted 41 briefings with over 1,000 attendees; since its inception in 2018, the program has conducted a total of 355 briefings, offering CB valuable insights into the latest cybersecurity trends.
In April 2024, AB hosted a virtual Industry Day alongside CB’s Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) Program and the General Services Administration (GSA). This event attracted over 300 attendees and provided a comprehensive breakdown of CB/CDM priorities and the upcoming modular acquisition strategy for CDM services. By offering early engagement with industry on CB’s draft acquisition plans, this Industry Day fostered a clear understanding of CB’s upcoming initiatives. Industry feedback was highly positive, with many attendees remarking that it was one of the most informative and engaging Industry Days they had ever attended.
Through initiatives like these, CISA’s CB organization and its AB branch have not only enhanced the cybersecurity landscape but have also set a new standard for industry collaboration, transparency, and strategic acquisition planning. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to building a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem that is well-prepared to meet the nation’s complex and growing cybersecurity needs.
EXCELLENCE IN OUTREACH – PUBLIC HEALTH
William Braniff, Director, Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
As Director of the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) at the 
Department of Homeland Security, William Braniff leads a multidisciplinary team in a groundbreaking, public health-informed approach that goes beyond traditional security measures. Under his leadership, CP3 utilizes a holistic, whole-of-society strategy to identify and empower a diverse array of prevention practitioners, bringing together educators, public health professionals, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to create a robust network addressing the root causes of violence within communities.
CP3’s outreach efforts, spearheaded by Braniff, include targeted training, capacity-building, and a dynamic grants program that empowers communities to develop tailored prevention strategies. This approach not only enables CP3 to address unique local challenges but also strengthens a growing evidence base for violence prevention. Braniff’s extensive experience—from his role as Director of the University of Maryland’s National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) to his leadership in practitioner education at West Point’s Combating Terrorism Center—has provided him with a nuanced, informed perspective on complex security issues. His influence reaches beyond U.S. borders, as he actively engages with global partners to exchange best practices in targeted violence and terrorism prevention, enhancing the collective capacity to secure our homeland.
Braniff’s forward-looking vision has re-positioned CP3 as a beacon of proactive, public health-informed prevention strategy. His outreach efforts have received an overwhelmingly positive response, establishing 184 new partnerships in just five months. CP3’s public health lens effectively communicates how partnerships with mental health practitioners, educators, and local community leaders can foster productive collaborations with law enforcement, addressing not only the symptoms of violence but also the underlying conditions that give rise to it. William Braniff’s dedication to engaging, educating, and empowering prevention practitioners exemplifies the transformative power of outreach, significantly strengthening community resilience and advancing the national security mission. His contributions are not only commendable but essential to our collective effort to protect American communities and secure our nation.
EXCELLENCE IN OUTREACH – STATE/LOCAL
Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Effective outreach and education are vital to building and maintaining trust between 
government agencies and the public. The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) prioritizes year-round outreach, but this work becomes especially critical during times of disaster. In May 2024, after Harris County was devastated by a powerful derecho event, FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA) launched financial assistance programs to help affected residents. However, many residents were confused about the application processes, prompting HCOHSEM to step in and provide much-needed clarity.
Recognizing the need for accessible, straightforward information, HCOHSEM’s Communications team collaborated with FEMA, the SBA, and Deaf Link—a service that provides accessible communications for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or literacy-challenged—to create a five-minute video and related materials addressing frequently asked questions about FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and SBA’s Disaster Loans. The video, produced in-house, tackled 11 of the most common questions collected from social media, 211/311 call centers, and listening reports. It was organized by themes such as eligibility and timelines, allowing it to serve as an evergreen resource. When Hurricane Beryl struck in July 2024, the video proved invaluable once again, helping residents navigate federal assistance programs with ease.
The video was widely shared across HCOHSEM’s digital platforms, including YouTube, social media, and the county website, and featured representatives from FEMA and the SBA explaining the disaster recovery process in simple, easy-to-understand language. This segmented approach enabled HCOHSEM to reach a larger audience and provide guidance to residents on specific aspects of the application and eligibility processes.
In a commitment to inclusivity, HCOHSEM produced the video with Spanish subtitles and American Sign Language (ASL) translation, the latter made possible through an ongoing partnership with Deaf Link. This inclusive strategy ensured that essential information was accessible to all community members, including individuals with hearing impairments. HCOHSEM’s comprehensive approach to accessibility underscores its dedication to serving every member of the community and enhancing public understanding of critical resources.
These outreach efforts have strengthened trust and transparency between HCOHSEM and the communities it serves. By proactively addressing residents’ questions and concerns, HCOHSEM demonstrated its commitment to supporting Harris County residents in their recovery journey. The collaboration with FEMA, SBA, and Deaf Link exemplifies HCOHSEM’s model of partnership, essential to preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. This initiative not only highlights the power of effective outreach and education but also sets a benchmark for future collaborative disaster response efforts.
MOST INNOVATIVE CAMPAIGN TO INCREASE SECURITY
People around the nation are working to find creative and engaging ways to help the public understand and prepare for any eventuality. Educating the public about homeland priorities, threats, and vulnerabilities is a critical part of the security equation. The Most Innovative Campaign to Improve Security recognizes a federal, state, local, or private-sector campaign that has increased awareness and preparedness for a threat that requires the partnerships to mitigate and prevent physical or cyber attack, disaster preparedness, human trafficking, infrastructure protection, supply-chain security or any threat to the country.
Federal Protective Service: “Your Safety, Our Priority” Campaign
The Federal Protective Service (FPS) launched the “Your Safety, Our Priority” campaign to 
enhance the personal safety and security of government employees and visitors at FPS-protected federal facilities. FPS supports over 1.4 million people daily at 8,500 facilities nationwide, ensuring secure work environments for federal employees in 66 agencies.
In response to the National Security Memorandum on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience (NSM-22) signed by President Biden on April 30, 2024, FPS’s responsibilities have expanded beyond facilities owned or leased by the General Services Administration (GSA). As the lead Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agency, FPS now co-manages the Government Services and Facilities sector (GSFS), which includes federal buildings, educational institutions, and historical sites at the state, local, and tribal levels.
FPS has observed a concerning rise in security incidents at federal properties, including significant increases in assaults, threats, demonstrations, and disorderly conduct. In fiscal year 2023 alone, incidents increased by 138% in demonstrations, 29% in disorderly conduct, 24% in assaults, and 13% in inappropriate communications.
In May 2023, FPS began a targeted campaign to provide safety information to federal employees, whether working on-site, remotely, or while traveling. Building on its success, FPS launched the expanded “Your Safety, Our Priority” campaign in October 2024, which will continue through early 2025. This new initiative is designed to educate federal employees and visitors on critical threats, including bomb and insider threats, as well as emerging risks like swatting, doxing, and online harassment. The campaign aims to keep personnel safe by empowering them to recognize and report suspicious activities and stay informed about tactics used to disrupt government operations.
To reach the broad GSFS audience, FPS has leveraged its partnerships with the Interagency Security Committee, Federal Executive Boards, and Federal Security Committees, as well as engaging industry and local partners. Notably, FPS formalized a Memorandum of Agreement with the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Agencies in July 2024 and has conducted outreach to state, local, tribal, and territorial entities responsible for government facility security.
The “Your Safety, Our Priority” campaign reflects FPS’s proactive approach to safety, security, and awareness, strengthening the security of the entire GSFS and fostering a more resilient federal workforce and community.
Nadia Aman, Unified Processing Team, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Nadia Aman and the Unified Processing (UPRO) team at the Department of Homeland 
Security (DHS) have successfully deployed the Mobile Intake Application, a groundbreaking national security tool designed to streamline and enhance the identification process for U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents and Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers. This advanced application leverages photo and optical character recognition technology to provide near real-time identification during initial encounters, improving situational awareness, reducing manual data entry, and ensuring data consistency and integrity.
The Mobile Intake Application represents a significant advancement in agent and officer safety by enabling rapid identification of criminals and terrorists. Standardizing mission-critical processes with streamlined workflows, the tool has reduced intake processing times from 14 minutes to just 1.5 to 2 minutes per individual, significantly reducing custody-related risks. Since its deployment, the application has processed over 2.45 million individuals, saving more than 88,000 working hours—equivalent to 21.5 employees—and generating approximately $3 million in cost savings. The success of this application has inspired similar technological innovations across the DHS enterprise, encouraging other programs to adopt cutting-edge identification capabilities.
In addition to its operational efficiencies, the Mobile Intake Application has proven essential for rapid deployment during periods of high border activity, allowing surge forces to quickly establish processing capabilities. This tool is the initial phase of the broader Unified Processing System (UPRO), which will integrate and unify two major CBP systems into a single, advanced platform that enhances safety, efficiency, and consistency for agents and officers nationwide. The success of Mobile Intake underscores the DHS commitment to innovating in national security, making UPRO a critical step toward a unified, streamlined future for border security.
MOST INNOVATIVE CAMPAIGN TO COUNTER CHILD EXPLOITATION
Miami International Airport Human Trafficking Unit (MIA-HTU) and the Homeland Security Investigations Know2Protect Campaign
Homeland Security Investigations Know2Protect Campaign
On April 17, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launched “Know2Protect,” 
a sweeping national public awareness campaign focused on preventing and combating child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). Designed to engage the public through multiple touchpoints, the campaign leverages an array of platforms and partnerships to reach diverse audiences and equip them with vital knowledge and resources to counteract online CSEA.
At the heart of the campaign is Know2Protect.gov, an accessible federal clearinghouse that serves as a central resource for individuals seeking information on CSEA, ways to report it, and tools to help families stay informed and safe online. The website also includes a dedicated portal for children aged 10 and up, delivering age-appropriate content to foster safe online practices from a young age.
Know2Protect has effectively harnessed strategic partnerships to extend its outreach. Collaborating with the tech sector, national sports leagues, youth-serving organizations, and law enforcement agencies, DHS amplifies the campaign’s messages through donated advertising, co-branded materials, and speaking engagements, reaching vast and varied audiences in impactful ways. These partnerships allow Know2Protect to bridge its messages across community spaces, ensuring the campaign’s content resonates in places where it can make a significant impact.
Social media plays a critical role in reaching younger audiences and families alike, with Know2Protect content distributed under the @know2protect handle across Facebook, Instagram, and X, alongside a robust video presence on DHS’s YouTube channel. The campaign’s social media strategy includes the release of a Digital Safety Series and a range of public service announcements, produced in varying lengths to optimize engagement across digital platforms.
To broaden its reach even further, DHS has invested in a diverse array of paid media placements. Digital displays in high-traffic locations such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago are complemented by traditional billboards, posters in the top 25 markets, and paid social ads on Facebook and Instagram, as well as traditional television spots. This extensive media strategy ensures that Know2Protect’s messages are seen by millions across various viewing and engagement preferences.
An essential part of the campaign is Project iGuardian, which brings Know2Protect’s mission to life through in-person educational events. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agents present directly to children, parents, and trusted adults, educating them on the nature of CSEA, effective prevention techniques, and how to report suspected abuse. This interactive approach creates a direct line to the public, fostering a deeper understanding of online safety within communities.
Within its first few months, from April 17 to August 31, 2024, the Know2Protect campaign achieved over 200 million impressions. This reach was further supported by a Back2School sub-initiative (#Back2School with Know2Protect), aimed at educators, coaches, and other trusted adults, equipping them with tools to understand and address online CSEA risks. This sub-campaign’s goal is for every teacher in the U.S. to access Know2Protect.gov and share its resources in their classrooms, maximizing the campaign’s educational impact.
Through these varied strategies, Know2Protect effectively taps into public channels to build awareness and empower individuals with critical knowledge and resources. By prioritizing accessibility, leveraging partnerships, and employing a broad media strategy, DHS has created a powerful campaign that strengthens community resilience against online exploitation and reinforces its commitment to safeguarding the public in the digital age.
MOST INNOVATIVE CAMPAIGN TO COUNTER HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Miami International Airport Human Trafficking Unit (MIA-HTU)
MIA-HTU began its journey in 2017 with “Operation Renegade,” the first CBP human 
trafficking unit, initially focused on combating sex trafficking in the South Florida region. The operation quickly demonstrated its impact, becoming an official pilot program that later, in 2020, expanded to address labor trafficking and child exploitation. This evolution marked MIA as CBP’s first official Human Trafficking Unit, broadening its scope and reinforcing CBP’s role in countering these critical threats.
Over the years, MIA-HTU’s work revealed the far-reaching impact of human trafficking and child exploitation, motivating the team to share its expertise and methods on a national level. The unit recognized that CBP’s capabilities in countering trafficking could benefit ports across the U.S., driving the team to create a platform for nationwide collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
In October 2023, MIA-HTU took a bold step toward making this goal a reality, overcoming budget constraints and logistical hurdles to organize the first-ever CBP Human Trafficking Symposium. Through innovative funding solutions, resourceful planning, and efficient coordination, the symposium brought together CBP personnel from all field offices, as well as representatives from the National Targeting Center (NTC), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office (AUSA), Office of Chief Counsel (OCC), CBP clinicians, local law enforcement, and NGOs including Operation Underground Railroad and Libertas International.
The symposium featured a moving address from a survivor of child exploitation, whose story underscored the profound impact of MIA-HTU’s work and the importance of this shared mission. This powerful gathering fostered a unified approach to combat human trafficking, showcasing the techniques and best practices that are now being implemented across CBP.
As of August 2024, nine human trafficking units operate within CBP, with more ports expressing interest in joining the fight following the success of the Florida Human Trafficking Symposium. This landmark event was instrumental in strengthening CBP’s anti-trafficking efforts, proving that through collaboration, resourcefulness, and shared dedication, CBP can save more lives and bring criminal organizations to justice. The symposium stands as a testament to MIA-HTU’s leadership and vision, setting a benchmark for future CBP initiatives in the fight against human trafficking.
ACQUISITION EXCELLENCE
The Acquisition Excellence awards recognize a division, agency or effort that has improved the speed, efficiency, and effectiveness of the acquisition of technology, products or services that support the frontline missions of homeland security. Projects must demonstrate tangible benefits and improved efficiency in the acquisition process.
ACQUISITION EXCELLENCE – FEDERAL
CISA’s Threat Intelligence Enterprise Services (TIES) Acquisition Team
Niki Lane, Acquisition & Requirements Management Section Chief, Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation; Joseph Sheridan, Supervisory Coordination Center Officer; Pamela Elliott, Contracting Officer’s Representative, CISA’s Cybersecurity Shared Services Office; Jason Neumer, CISA
Early in FY 2024, the Acquisition and Budget (AB) Branch of CISA’s Capacity Building organization was tasked with developing the requirements, acquisition strategy, and planning for a next-generation threat exchange platform solution for the Federal Civilian Executive Branch (FCEB), Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs), and State Fusion Centers. This effort aimed to create a cutting-edge Threat Intelligence Enterprise Service (TIES) for cyber threat intelligence, a cornerstone in safeguarding federal cybersecurity.
Through extensive market research and over 250 requirements-gathering engagements across CISA, AB recognized that a traditional acquisition approach would fall short of meeting CISA’s full operational needs for TIES. Since the solution would incorporate commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products, AB carefully considered the risks often associated with procuring and configuring COTS software. Specifically, off-the-shelf solutions rarely meet full operational requirements without significant customization, often requiring the government to invest heavily in licenses and ongoing engineering and configuration costs to address gaps.
Collaborating across CISA’s Cybersecurity Division, CISA, and DHS, AB developed an innovative acquisition approach using DHS’s Other Transactional Authority (OTA), a seldom-utilized procurement method. This resulted in the award of four OTAs for the TIES cyber threat intelligence exchange platform in September 2024, marking CISA’s first time leveraging an OTA.
The OTA acquisition approach allowed CISA to validate that solutions met all government needs before committing to extensive licensing and engineering support, ultimately expediting implementation. This flexibility also enabled CISA to collaborate with non-traditional vendors and tech firms, fostering a focus on outcomes, enhancing competitive pricing, and reducing both upfront investments and long-term risks. By using OTAs, AB streamlined the acquisition process, speeding up vendor selection and mitigating post-implementation risks.
This groundbreaking acquisition approach sets a new standard within CISA, enhancing the speed, efficiency, and effectiveness of CISA’s cyber threat intelligence capabilities and serving as a model for future acquisition strategies within homeland security.
ACQUISISTION EXCELLENCE – FEDERAL
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Congressional BOT Team
The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 
procurement office faced considerable challenges with its internal review process for Congressional Notifications, which are required before awarding certain high-profile contracts. This process was labor-intensive, susceptible to human error, and involved coordination among multiple stakeholders. To address these issues, CBP’s Head of Contracting Activity (HCA) sought an innovative solution that would increase the quality, speed, and accuracy of these reviews while reducing the administrative burden on the acquisition workforce. The HCA also prioritized a solution that would be easy to implement and widely embraced by the workforce.
To drive this innovation, CBP’s HCA launched a crowdsourcing initiative through the DHS Procurement Innovation Lab’s (PIL) Idea Competition platform, soliciting ideas from CBP’s acquisition workforce. This initiative led to the development and implementation of a Robotic Process Automation (RPA) bot specifically designed to streamline the Congressional Notification review process.
In February 2024, CBP launched the RPA bot, named “Sienna,” which quickly demonstrated its effectiveness by reducing the review and processing time for Congressional Notifications from over 90 minutes to just 16 minutes—a time savings of 80% per action. Used during the final eight months of FY 2024, Sienna processed 285 actions, saving approximately 352 hours, equivalent to one person working full-time for nine weeks. CBP projects the bot will handle 400 Congressional Notification actions in FY 2025, maintaining an impressive 99% accuracy rate as it routes, determines, and enters information into DHS’s Enterprise Reporting Application (ERA) for Congressional submission.
The success of the RPA bot was the culmination of a collaborative process that began in FY 2022. CBP’s HCA sponsored a crowdsourced effort via the PIL Idea Competition, which invited CBP’s acquisition workforce to propose ways to improve the Congressional Notification review process. In FY 2023, five ideas were submitted, and a panel of CBP procurement leadership selected two finalists to move forward to the Prototype phase. Extensive testing and feedback from CBP contracting officers and specialists shaped the final design, and a cash prize was awarded to the PIL Idea Competition winners following Sienna’s successful deployment.
Sienna’s impact on efficiency is profound, with projected annual savings of over $50,000 in labor costs and the redirection of 12 weeks of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) hours toward more strategic tasks, especially valuable during peak fiscal year-end periods. This innovation not only enhances CBP’s mission delivery speed but also sets a standard for leveraging emerging technologies to streamline complex processes within the federal government.
ACQUISITION EXCELLENCE – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Peter Giambone, Contracting Officer, Acquisition Innovation Advocate (AIA), Office of Acquisition, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Peter Giambone has exhibited exemplary leadership and innovation in advancing acquisition 
and procurement strategies for information technology solutions at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). As a Senior Contracting Officer and CBP’s Acquisition Innovation Advocate, Giambone champions DHS Procurement Innovation Lab (PIL) methodologies to drive faster, more efficient, and cost-effective acquisition outcomes. Alongside Mr. David Seay, he co-leads the CBP Procurement Innovation Team (PIT), fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within CBP’s acquisition community.
Among his most notable achievements is his work on the Non-Intrusive Inspection Anomaly Detection Algorithm (NII ADA) contract, an initiative that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance CBP’s capabilities in detecting contraband and security threats at ports of entry. Through this initiative, Giambone successfully secured a cutting-edge solution that leverages advanced computer vision algorithms to assist frontline officers in analyzing non-intrusive inspection images. To expedite this project, he adeptly used the Commercial Solutions Opening Pilot Program (CSOP), a nontraditional procurement tool designed to streamline the acquisition of commercial technologies. His strategic use of CSOP enabled CBP to rapidly access AI solutions, significantly strengthening border security measures and enhancing the effectiveness of inspection protocols. In recognition of his efforts, Giambone was awarded the CBP Commissioner’s Award for Trade and Facilitation, exemplifying how nontraditional procurement methods can rapidly bring essential technologies to the field to meet CBP’s mission needs.
Through his work on NII ADA, Giambone has also advanced CBP’s commitment to utilizing AI, data management, and algorithmic solutions, facilitating more thorough and efficient inspections, expediting the processing of low-risk trade and travel, and reducing human labor demands. His initiatives serve as a model for government leaders, showcasing how innovative procurement strategies can directly support national security.
Giambone’s contributions extend beyond CBP, positively impacting the broader DHS and federal acquisition communities. As an advocate for innovation, he shares best practices and lessons learned through various forums, including DHS PIL Webinars and educational podcasts, known as “PILCasts.” These sessions, publicly available, provide valuable insights into using innovative acquisition methods, such as CSOP and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program. Giambone’s commitment to mentorship is evident in his role as a coach to current and aspiring acquisition leaders, inspiring them to embrace change, challenge conventional methods, and strive for excellence.
Giambone’s vision, passion, and dedication to acquisition innovation have earned him the respect and admiration of peers, partners, and customers. His outstanding achievements and the positive impact he has made on acquisition within DHS and CBP exemplify Federal Acquisition excellence, positioning him as a leader driving the government toward a future that transcends current norms.
BACKBONE
Often the “back-end” side of the mission is the most neglected, and yet often the most important. Recipients of the Backbone award have accomplished extraordinary feats to ensure that the support functions of an agency maximize efficiency, support mission and account for new advancements and technology.
Phillip Troutman, Lead Data Architect, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
In an environment where front-line achievements often receive the spotlight, Phillip 
Troutman has consistently demonstrated that the true strength of ICE lies in the critical, behind-the-scenes support and solutions provided by back-end operations. His work has been instrumental in advancing efficiency, supporting ICE’s mission, and integrating cutting-edge technologies, setting a new standard for operational excellence.
As Lead Data Architect, Troutman spearheaded data tagging efforts that significantly enhanced data exchange and sharing capabilities. These efforts not only bolstered the agency’s data privacy and security posture but also aligned with zero trust architecture principles, ensuring a more robust information security framework. Additionally, Troutman researched and identified six viable FedRAMP-approved tools to categorize and tag ICE’s data dictionaries, laying the foundation for future automation solutions. His thorough analysis of data modeling standards across ICE brought critical context, illuminating areas of concern and resulting in updated standards that mitigate risks of unintentional misuse.
Under Troutman’s leadership, two high-priority initiatives moved from active phases to sustainment, marking significant strides toward program goals. His drive to empower mission-critical offices is evident in his dedication to going above and beyond standard responsibilities. When faced with incomplete or inadequate data dictionaries or limited data inventory contributions, Troutman not only educates others on the importance of this information to ICE’s data ecosystem but often takes on additional work within his office to enhance its usability and efficiency.
Troutman’s exceptional dedication and strategic foresight have optimized support functions within ICE and laid the groundwork for future advancements, ensuring the seamless execution of ICE’s mission. His work stands as a benchmark for excellence and inspires others to pursue the highest standards in their contributions.
Nina Cardwell, IT Specialist, Agile Methods Team, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Nina Cardwell’s exceptional leadership and transformative contributions to the Solutions 
Development Directorate (SDD) make her so deserving of the Backbone Award. Cardwell’s unwavering dedication, expertise, and innovative approach have significantly enhanced the directorate’s Agile framework, driving meaningful improvements in the organization’s responsiveness and effectiveness.
As the leader of SDD’s Agile Methods Team, Cardwell has been instrumental in strengthening SDD’s ability to provide timely and effective technical solutions to DHS Headquarters and its components. Her efforts have set a new benchmark for operational excellence, ensuring that SDD remains adaptable and aligned with the DHS mission.
Cardwell spearheaded the development of a comprehensive set of Agile standards, creating a framework that balances clarity, consistency, and flexibility. These standards have improved project management practices across SDD, delivering measurable improvements in outcomes. To ensure successful adoption, she led targeted coaching engagements, tailoring guidance to meet the specific needs of each development team. These efforts not only oriented teams to Agile practices but also drove meaningful changes that have enhanced productivity and collaboration.
Cardwell’s leadership also focused on refining processes and streamlining documentation. She helped teams establish robust operational frameworks and centralized critical documentation into a single, accessible source. This approach ensured SDD’s audit readiness while maintaining the flexibility to respond to diverse and evolving customer requirements.
One of Cardwell’s most impactful contributions was her emphasis on metrics and data-driven decision-making. By leveraging data from SDD’s Jira system, she enabled leaders to monitor progress, identify deviations, and make informed adjustments. Her focus on actionable insights empowered project managers and division directors to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Through her innovative strategies and dedication to excellence, Cardwell has profoundly impacted the organization’s agility and effectiveness. Her leadership has ensured SDD remains audit-ready while staying responsive to the evolving needs of DHS Headquarters and components. Her ability to inspire and support her team has solidified her reputation as an indispensable asset.
CITIZEN OF MISSION
The Citizen of Mission award goes to an individual who devotes their personal time, energy, and resources to work for causes related to homeland security. Volunteers, nonprofit leaders, corporate employees — anyone is eligible for nomination as long as they devote time and dedicated effort to supporting the homeland mission.
Dexter Ingram, Founder, IN Network
In 2023, Dexter Ingram founded IN Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to guiding young individuals aged 13 to 26 toward impactful careers in national security. Remarkably, 
Dexter manages this work in his personal time, drawing on a wealth of experience as a former Naval Flight Officer and seasoned counterterrorism strategist. Over his extensive career with the State Department, Dexter has held pivotal roles, including Director of the Office of Countering Violent Extremism, Acting Director of the Office of the Special Envoy to Defeat ISIS, Senior Counter Terrorism Coordinator to INTERPOL in France, Senior Political Advisor in Helmand, Afghanistan, Deputy Director of the Office of Preventing WMD Terrorism, and as a senior liaison to the FBI and DHS.
A dedicated advocate for community engagement and storytelling, Dexter shares his knowledge and passion for national security, history, and service through his unique private spy collection. He serves on the Boards of the International Spy Museum, the National Counterterrorism, Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE), the Sycamore Institute, and Globally. His contributions also extend to roles on the Board of Visitors at National Defense University and the D.C. Advisory Committee of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.
Dexter’s dedication to innovating in national security education is evident through his selection as an International Counterterrorism Fellow at the U.S. National Defense University’s College of International Security Affairs and his recognition as an honoree by the Diversity in National Security Network. Additionally, he is a respected media commentator and public speaker, frequently discussing national security issues to educate and inspire.
Dexter Ingram’s unwavering commitment to shaping the next generation of national security leaders and his passion for service exemplify his role as a true Citizen of Mission. His selfless contributions during his personal time continue to impact young minds and inspire a future dedicated to national security and public service.
MARKET MAVEN
Presented to an exceptional individual who contributes in a concrete and tangible way to the efficiency, productivity, and effectiveness of the homeland and national security market. Proven as a thought leader with a belief in increasing individual opportunity, the power of free enterprise and the nurture of innovation to advance and support the homeland and national security mission.
Chad Poland, Product Manager, Cybersecurity Shared Services Office, Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, SCuBA Effort
Chad Poland serves as a Product Manager in CISA’s Cybersecurity Shared Services Office 
(CSSO), an office dedicated to developing and delivering cybersecurity solutions for the Federal Civilian Executive Branch (FCEB), state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) government agencies, and public organizations. As a proven thought leader and innovator, Poland has spearheaded the Secure Business Applications (SCuBA) initiative, which is focused on providing essential guidance and resources to help these entities secure their cloud environments. The SCuBA project offers a unified approach to security standards and configurations across popular software-as-a-service applications like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, delivering actionable tools and insights to strengthen cloud security.
Among his significant contributions in this role, Poland has overseen the development and release of security configuration baselines (SCBs) and automated assessment tools for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, along with the finalization of two foundational documents—the Technical Reference Architecture (TRA) and the Extensible Visibility Reference Framework (eVRF). The TRA aligns with zero trust principles, the federal zero trust strategy, and CISA’s zero trust maturity model, offering agencies a “vendor agnostic” guide to securing business applications across productivity, messaging, content management, collaboration, and voice capabilities.
To complement these guidelines, Poland’s team developed automated tools for assessing baseline security configurations. The Microsoft-specific tool, “ScubaGear,” has been widely adopted with over 1,700 downloads on GitHub, while the Google Workspace tool, “ScubaGoggles,” provides tailored assessments for Google environments. Updates to the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace Secure Configuration Baselines were released on May 22, 2024, and the Hybrid Identity Solutions Guidance document was finalized and published on March 12, 2024. Additionally, the SCuBA Technical Reference Architecture and eVRF Guidebook were published on June 27, 2023.
Poland’s leadership has resulted in a suite of SCuBA resources that represent innovative and practical tools to help federal and SLTT partners bolster the security of their cloud environments. His work extends beyond the CSSO; prior to his current role, he served as Associate Chief for CISA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer Enterprise Governance Division, where he directed compliance frameworks for CISA’s IT activities and led efforts in modernizing the CISA IT Governance framework.
Chad Poland’s contributions have had a transformative impact on CISA’s approach to cybersecurity, providing scalable solutions that empower agencies across the country to adopt robust cloud security measures. His dedication to advancing secure cloud operations has solidified his reputation as a leader in public sector cybersecurity, setting a high standard for securing essential cloud environments in government.
HOMELAND’S HUMAN FIREWALL
Homeland’s Human Firewall is a new award to recognize the tireless efforts and achievements of those keeping our cyber infrastructure protected.
HOMELAND’s HUMAN FIREWALL – FEDERAL
Edam Colón, Acting Executive Advisor, Information Technology, Transportation Security Administration
Edam Colón, acting Executive Advisor for TSA’s Information Technology (IT) office, 
exemplifies the essence of the Homeland Human Firewall award through his commitment to cybersecurity and dedication to protecting critical systems. Known for his proactive approach to preventing cyber threats and adaptability to evolving technology, Colón has demonstrated what it truly means to be a “human firewall” within the public sector.
In his role as Executive Advisor to TSA’s CIO Opeyemi Oshinnaiye and Deputy CIO Kristin Ruiz, Colón leverages extensive cybersecurity experience from his prior role as an IT Cybersecurity Specialist within the Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Division (IAD). There, he was instrumental in defending TSA’s computer and network systems, applying his expertise to secure key infrastructures essential to TSA’s mission.
Colón’s achievements include developing cybersecurity requirements and testing protocols for TSA’s Checkpoint Property Screening Systems, Advanced Imaging Technology, Credential Authentication Terminal, and Explosive Detection Systems. Additionally, he led efforts to modernize the evaluation requirements for Transportation Security Equipment, enhancing resilience against emerging cyber threats.
Recognized for his outstanding work within IAD, Colón stepped into the role of acting Executive Advisor, bringing cybersecurity insights to high-impact initiatives that drive the modernization of TSA’s technology infrastructure. His expertise has been especially valuable in transportation security equipment procurements and in guiding security architectural design reviews, fortifying TSA’s information systems.
Through his cybersecurity skills and strategic contributions, Colón has made a significant and positive impact on TSA’s mission, supporting the agency’s broader goal of protecting travelers. His work has strengthened TSA’s resilience, ensuring that the agency remains prepared to address sophisticated cybersecurity challenges, setting a high standard for security in the transportation sector.
HOMELAND’s HUMAN FIREWALL – STATE
Matthew Hladik, Area Port Director, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
In the wake of a critical security breach, Area Port Director (APD) Matthew P. Hladik of U.S.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) showcased exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and operational innovation. Charged with leading the reorganization of the Law Enforcement Safety and Compliance Directorate’s (LESC) Asset Management Branch (AMB), Hladik transformed a compromised facility into a model of resilience and security excellence.
Hladik understood that protecting national security requires more than technical fixes; it demands a culture of accountability, empowerment, and collaboration. Under his guidance, the AMB was quickly restructured with state-of-the-art security systems and rigorous access protocols, fortifying both physical and cyber defenses. This strategic overhaul laid the foundation for a comprehensive transformation, ensuring that the restructured AMB could counter evolving threats with agility and precision. Hladik’s leadership was distinguished by his commitment to employee-driven change. His focus on open communication, mutual respect, and inclusivity fostered a shift in workforce morale, inspiring his team to take ownership of the changes and embrace a culture of compliance and excellence. By incorporating diverse perspectives, he established a robust system of checks and balances that upheld the highest standards of regulatory compliance.
The innovative framework Hladik developed not only protected this critical CBP facility but also created a replicable model for securing other sensitive operations across the agency. His meticulous attention to detail, deep expertise in security protocols, and ability to lead transformative change have made a lasting impact on CBP’s security posture.
APD Matthew P. Hladik’s campaign to reorganize and secure the AMB exemplifies the critical role of visionary leadership and innovative solutions in protecting national security. His dedication to excellence, his capacity to inspire and motivate his team, and his unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation make him an outstanding example of the “human firewall” philosophy in action.
HOMELAND’s HUMAN FIREWALL – LOCAL
Joseph “Tony” Misher, Associate Director for Cyber Integration, Technology & Innovation Directorate, Federal Protective Service, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Joseph “Tony” Misher, as the Associate Director for Cyber Integration within the Federal Protective Service’s (FPS) Technology & Innovation (T&I) Directorate at DHS, has been instrumental in safeguarding over 9,500 federal facilities and the 1.4 million people who access them daily. Leading FPS’s cyber efforts, Misher has built a robust cybersecurity program from the ground up to protect critical federal infrastructure, establishing the Cyber Security Assessment (CSA) program to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in internet-connected security devices, ICS, and SCADA systems throughout federal spaces. In the past year alone, his team has conducted over 50 assessments, addressing cyber risks in building control systems and technical countermeasures.
Recognizing early the emerging threats posed by cyber vulnerabilities in facility control systems, Misher has driven FPS’s cybersecurity agenda, leading responses to significant cybersecurity breaches affecting U.S. Government building contractors. His expertise was also pivotal in the response to a major firewall system compromise that impacted FPS’s primary security assessment tool. Following Congressional hearings, Misher reviewed federal countermeasure acquisition packages, ensuring FPS’s procurement contracts excluded vulnerable or prohibited equipment.
In his work with FPS’s electric vehicle (EV) testing, Misher identified broader cybersecurity risks affecting connected vehicles. Sharing these findings with key partners, including the FBI, NYPD, and national labs, he has since collaborated with vehicle manufacturers to push for design changes and is finalizing an analysis on connected vehicle cybersecurity vulnerabilities. His insights have positioned him as a key contributor to the DHS-led research plan on vehicle cybersecurity.
Misher’s commitment to cyber hygiene and awareness extends throughout FPS and DHS. After briefing a DHS international partner, he became a sought-after resource for personal cyber hygiene training, educating nearly 200 DHS Senior Executives on cyber best practices, doxing awareness, and personal cybersecurity. His impact prompted DHS leaders to request similar briefings for Executive Branch leaders, including those from the OMB, EPA, and Social Security Administration.
In addition to his role at FPS, Misher is a practicing lawyer and serves as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in Washington, D.C. Recently, he successfully prosecuted a Russian cyber-criminal, a case that concluded with a conviction and sentencing. His legal experience strengthens FPS’s cybersecurity capabilities, as he trains FPS investigators in cybercrime investigation, digital evidence collection, and trial preparation.
Tony Misher’s expertise, innovative leadership, and dedication to cybersecurity make him an invaluable asset to FPS and DHS. His efforts not only protect federal infrastructure but also enhance national security, setting a high standard in the fight against cyber threats. As FPS’s “Human Firewall,” Misher remains a crucial line of defense against cybercriminals seeking to compromise government operations.