Build a cybersecurity mindset
This session lays the groundwork for understanding cybersecurity in a nonprofit context—before diving into tools, threats, or technical fixes. Participants will explore the differences and overlaps between cyber, information, and physical security, using the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility) as a guide. Through the lens of the four pillars—people, process, policies, and technologies—they’ll learn how the intersection and inclusion of each helps to build practical habits that support secure operations. A hands-on exercise (demonstrated so they can do it on their own) will help turn concepts into action.
This session is designed as a starting point to build confidence and a mindset for more technical courses.
Learning objectives
Context setting
Establish a foundation for general concepts and terms related to cybersecurity
Strategic thinking
Introduction to key foundational frameworks for thinking strategically about cybersecurity
Practical application
Examples and opportunities to start moving into action
Curriculum outline
- What do we mean by "security"
- The four pillars
- CIA triad and moving into action
- Setting a practical mindset
Anticipated time to complete
NTEN courses typically require about 60 minutes of video content to complete, while optional content varies by course.
Course details
Meet the presenter
Kelley Misata
Sightline Security
I’m Dr. Kelley Misata, Founder and Chief Trailblazer of Sightline Security. I work with nonprofits and small-to-medium businesses to help them understand where they are with cybersecurity and, just as importantly, where to start. With a Ph.D. in Information Security from Purdue University—and my own lived experiences shaping my perspective—I’ve seen how powerful it is when organizations realize security doesn’t have to get in the way of their work. I love helping people find that starting point and watching them build momentum from there.
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