The National Cybersecurity Strategy and Implementation Plan: securing the promise of our digital future
Cybersecurity is essential to the basic functioning of our economy, the operation of our critical infrastructure, the strength of our democracy, the privacy of our data and communications, and our national defense. Last year, the Biden-Harris Administration released the National Cybersecurity Strategy which details the comprehensive approach the Administration is taking to better secure cyberspace and ensure the United States is in the strongest possible position to realize all the benefits and potential of our digital future. To realize the bold affirmative vision laid out in the Strategy, the Administration also took the novel step of publishing a National Cybersecurity Strategy Implementation Plan to ensure transparency and a continued path for coordination.
In this discussion with Stephen Viña, Senior Advisor at the Office of the National Cyber Director, we will explore the application of the National Cybersecurity Strategy to urgent, present-day issues such as the security of our critical infrastructure and cyber workforce needs and how the strategy sets the agenda for the Office of the National Cyber Director.
Bio
Stephen Viña is the Senior Advisor to the Deputy National Cyber Director for National Cybersecurity in the Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD). In this role, Stephen supports the execution of the Division’s activities, develops and coordinates cybersecurity planning, polices, and programs, and leads the office’s cyber insurance initiatives. Previously at ONCD, Stephen was the inaugural Assistant National Cyber Director for Legislative Affairs, where he led the office’s relationship with Congress.
Prior to joining ONCD, Stephen was a Senior Vice President at Marsh, where he served as a cyber insurance broker and claims specialist, helping organizations manage their cyber risks and recover financial losses after a cyber incident. Earlier in his career, Stephen spent nearly fifteen years on Capitol Hill advising Members of Congress on security issues. During this time, Stephen helped pass several major pieces of cyber legislation and held leadership positions in both the House and Senate, including Chief Counsel for Homeland Security on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and Subcommittee Staff Director on the House Committee on Homeland Security.
Stephen began his professional career as a Legislative Attorney at the Congressional Research Service where he focused on homeland security matters. He was also an Adjunct Professor for Texas A&M University School of Law and American University where he taught public policy and cybersecurity courses.
Stephen holds a law degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law in Fort Worth, Texas (now Texas A&M University School of Law) and is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and member of the Hispanic National Bar Association.
