New NUIT Unit Focuses on Security

If warnings about computer security threats seem repetitive, there's a good reason. New threats seem to emerge even as solutions for them are developed. But don't despair---NUIT's on the case!

To further its commitment toward protecting University information technology resources and assets, NUIT created an Office of Information and Systems Security/Compliance. This office is leading Northwestern's efforts to prevent, detect, and respond to information security threats and attacks.

David Kovarik, who recently joined NUIT as Director of Information and Systems Security/Compliance, will collaborate with departments and schools to facilitate communications regarding security responsibilities.

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To get started on computer security, visit NUIT's
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Get Control brochure (pdf).

"In the end, information security comes down to individual responsibility," states Kovarik. "The job of this new NUIT unit is to collaborate with Northwestern schools and departments to ensure that every person not only has the information to create a safe computing environment within the policies and guidelines of the University, but also the knowledge to make it work."

Kovarik and his staff will work to improve and maintain a high level of security throughout the University; develop policies and security architecture; and monitor government regulations and compliance issues. His focus will be the development of an information protection practice based on individual responsibility and accountability.

Most recently, Kovarik was Vice President and Information Security Manager for Branch Banking & Trust, Wilson, North Carolina. His prior experience includes security consultation services to a number of Fortune 500 corporate and financial clients, and 12 years as the Information Security Officer of southern California's largest thrift organization. Kovarik holds designations of Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).

For additional information or questions regarding the direction of this new NUIT unit, please contact David Kovarik at david-kovarik@northwestern.edu.