By
Therese Perlowski - Program Manager, Higher Education Membership
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
CIOs are assuming a larger role in safeguarding research data and ensuring compliance with federal cybersecurity regulations. With the Department of Defense requiring compliance on new contracts starting this year and moving into full implementation by 2028, research and education (R&E) institutions face a growing need to adapt — and fast.
That is why the upcoming Internet2 panel, CIO Perspectives on Research Data Security and CMMC Compliance, will dive deep into how CIOs are approaching CMMC compliance, supporting research teams, and managing the complex transformation required across central IT.
This panel, hosted on Nov. 12 at 1 p.m. ET, will feature four CIOs: Leo Howell of Georgia Institute of Technology, Jon Allen of Baylor University, Jonathan Fozard of Florida State University, and Sasi Pillay of the University of Nevada, Reno.
The CIO panel will share knowledge of navigating large-scale changes and dive deep into the world of compliance with focus on the following subjects:
1: The Complexity of CMMC Compliance
CMMC requirements are extensive, and the audit process is rigorous. Our panelists will break down what each compliance level entails and why the urgency to act is real.
From initial assessments to ongoing audits, the journey is anything but simple. CIOs will share how they’re building roadmaps that include:
- Research and operational workflows
- Triaging existing systems
- Managing cultural and organizational shifts
2: Bridging the Gap Between Central IT and Research
One of the biggest challenges in achieving compliance is the disconnect between central IT and research teams. The entrepreneurial nature of research often leads to fragmented communication and workflows.
CIOs will share how they’re partnering with Vice President for Research offices and faculty to:
- Identify active and upcoming research projects
- Map existing approval and data management processes
- Build collaborative strategies for secure research environments
3: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Every campus has a unique structure, meaning no single approach to cybersecurity compliance will work across all institutions.
The panel will highlight diverse strategies for operationalizing compliance, from building secure environments to integrating security reviews into research approvals.
You can expect insights on:
- Transitioning researchers to central IT support
- Leveraging contractors and AI tools
- Exploring new governance models
- Balancing compliance with the dynamic nature of academic research
4: Sustaining Compliance
CMMC compliance isn’t a one-and-done effort. It requires continuous monitoring and adaptation.
Panelists will discuss how they’re preparing for the long haul, including:
- Maintaining compliance for ongoing and archived research data
- Collaborating with external consultants unfamiliar with R&E
- Navigating financial pressures and resource constraints
- Redefining roles and responsibilities across campus
Register Today
Join us for an extensive conversation with CIOs who are leading the way in research security and compliance.
Whether you’re just beginning your CMMC journey or deep into implementation, this panel will offer practical insights, share their experiences, and provide actionable strategies to help your campus move forward.
Would you like to stay up-to-date about other valuable webinars hosted by Internet2? Check out our Events page or contact our membership team at membership@internet2.edu to learn more about Internet2 and opportunities within our community.
About the Author(s)
Therese Perlowski is Program Manager for Higher Education Membership at Internet2, where she manages strategic relationships to enhance value and collaboration across the higher education community. She coordinates programs and initiatives that strengthen member participation, advance Internet2’s mission and deepen community impact.