CISSE marks its 30th anniversary in 2026—a milestone celebrating three decades of leadership in cybersecurity education. This announcement introduces the 30th Anniversary Colloquium, outlines opportunities for community engagement, and sets the stage for a forward-looking program centered on innovation, collaboration, and impact.
30th Colloquium
Announcement from the Chair
CISSE Marks 30 Years of Leadership in Cybersecurity Education
As we enter this landmark year, The Colloquium for Information Systems Security Education (CISSE)™ stands at a defining moment in its history. In 2026, we proudly celebrate the 30th anniversary of CISSE—a milestone that reflects three decades of leadership, collaboration, and innovation in cybersecurity education.
CISSE™ was founded through the vision and dedication of three pioneers:
Their commitment to strengthening academic programs, establishing shared standards, and fostering a collaborative community laid the foundation for what has become the longest-running cybersecurity education conference in the United States.
Throughout this anniversary year, we will honor the individuals, institutions, and partnerships that have shaped CISSE's evolution. These reflections lead us to our milestone event: The 30th Colloquium, to be held October 26–28, 2026, at Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, Indiana. This year's gathering will celebrate our legacy while charting the next era of cybersecurity education—one defined by emerging technologies, evolving threats, and the growing demand for a skilled, ethical, and diverse cyber workforce. I am pleased to formally announce this year's conference theme:
Investigate. Imagine. Integrate. Impact.
Ivy Tech Community College, Indianapolis, ID
This theme embodies both our heritage and our forward momentum. It reflects the spirit of inquiry, creativity, collaboration, and purposeful action that has defined CISSE™ for three decades—and will continue to guide us into the future.
In the coming days, we will issue an open call for volunteers to serve on conference committees, to be posted on this conference overview. Broad participation from across our community will be essential as we prepare for this milestone year and deliver an exceptional 30th Anniversary Colloquium.
We will also release our call for sponsors, inviting organizations to engage with and support the nation's longest-running cybersecurity education conference. This anniversary year presents a unique opportunity for partners to align with and be recognized as part of this historic occasion.
Finally, our call for papers will open soon. We encourage researchers, educators, practitioners, and students to submit their work and contribute to the academic and professional dialogue shaping the future of cybersecurity education. The 30th anniversary program will showcase innovative research, emerging practices, and forward-looking perspectives that reflect the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Thank you for your continued leadership and engagement. I look forward to celebrating this milestone year with you—and to shaping the future of cybersecurity education together.
Chair, Board of Directors
