A Their Story conversation with Sean Martin, Marco Ciappelli, and Mary Carmichael and Dooshima Dabo’Adzuana from ISACA
As anticipation builds for the RSAC Conference 2025, ISACA leaders Mary Carmichael and Dooshima Dabo’Adzuana join Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli to preview what the global technology and cybersecurity association has in store for attendees this year. With a focus on expanding community, AI governance, and professional development, their conversation reveals how ISACA is showing up with both timely insights and tangible resources.
Mary Carmichael, President of ISACA’s Vancouver Chapter and a CPA focused on cybersecurity risk and governance, highlights the session she’s co-presenting with Dooshima Dabo’Adzuana: Third-Party AI: What Are You Really Buying? Their talk will explore the increasing complexity of evaluating AI solutions procured from vendors—especially those embedding large language models. Topics include due diligence during procurement, monitoring post-deployment, and assessing whether vendor practices align with internal risk and privacy requirements.
Dooshima Dabo’Adzuana, a researcher at Boise State University and leader from ISACA’s Abuja Chapter, shares how ISACA members across regions are grappling with similar questions: What does AI mean for my organization? What risks do third-party integrations introduce? She emphasizes the importance of frameworks and educational tools—resources that ISACA is making readily available at their booth (South Expo #2268) and through new certification tracks in AI audit and security.
Alongside the AI focus, visitors to the booth can explore results from ISACA’s Quantum Pulse Poll and access guidance on encryption readiness for a post-quantum future. The booth will also feature a selfie station and serve as a meeting point for the diverse ISACA community, with members from over 220 chapters worldwide.
The conversation rounds out with a critical discussion on cybersecurity career development. Both Mary and Dooshima share personal stories of transitioning into the field—Mary from accounting, Dooshima from insurance—and call for broader recognition of transferable skills. They point to global tools, such as career pathway frameworks supported by ISACA and the UK Cyber Security Council, as essential for addressing the persistent workforce gap.
This episode offers a preview of how ISACA is connecting global conversations on AI, quantum, and professional development—making RSAC Conference 2025 not just a tech showcase, but a community gathering rooted in learning and action.
Stop by booth 2268 in the South Expo to explore how ISACA are equipping professionals with practical tools for AI governance, quantum readiness, and cybersecurity career growth—and how your organization can benefit from a stronger, more connected community.
Learn more about ISACA: https://itspm.ag/isaca-96808
Guests:
Mary Carmichael, President of ISACA’s Vancouver Chapter | https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmichaelmary/
Dooshima Dabo’Adzuana, a researcher at Boise State University and leader from ISACA’s Abuja Chapter | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dooshima-dabo-adzuana/
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