Symantec Corp and the
Women's High Tech Coalition honored the recipients of the 2005 Women in Cyber Security Awards at a luncheon held in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2005. U.S. Rep. Mary
Bono (R-Calif.) was recognized for her leadership in combating spyware through legislation she introduced that is under consideration in the United States House of Representatives.
Jessica Herrera, Democratic staff director for the House Homeland Security Committee, and Liesyl Franz of the National Cyber Security division in the Department of Homeland Security were also recipients of this year's awards. All three officials were recognized for their leadership, foresight and actions at the national level and with the private sector to safeguard America's information and technology infrastructure.
"Like most American families, my family members are avid computer users who benefit from the convenience and accessibility that the e-commerce market provides," said Bono. "While I strongly support technological innovation, the e-commerce marketplace only works if consumers are protected. Sadly, as I have discovered through my legislation to reduce spyware-related intrusions, consumers are often unaware and uninformed on what information about them is collected, traded, and shared when surfing the Web. It is imperative that business, individuals, and the government work to foster a safer cyberspace to protect consumers from these vulnerabilities. Through government and private partnerships, we can improve cyber security and allow the Internet and e-commerce to achieve its full potential."
Presenting the awards at the luncheon were Sharon Ruckman, vice president, product management, Symantec Corporation, and MaryClare Fitzgerald, president of the Women's High Tech Coalition.
"The security of cyberspace is critical for protecting America's national information infrastructure from various forms of attacks and disruptions," said Ruckman. "As a result, it is imperative that there be sound national policies in place relative to cyberspace. This year's honorees have played key roles in shaping national policies and approaches for cyber security and their leadership is very much appreciated by both the public and private sectors." This year's event is the second annual program hosted by the Women's High Tech Coalition.
The Women's High Tech Coalition (WHTC) was founded in November 2000 with a mission to provide resources and opportunities for professional women in the technology industry to interact with policymakers on various issues and to empower them to thrive, achieve and make a difference in this evolving and dynamic industry. By providing an atmosphere that generates sincere discussions and access to industry leaders from the private and public sector, the WHTC presents women leaders the opportunity to influence public policy issues impacting the high tech industry overall.
