AI4AIS26: Scaling Cyber Defense Without Scaling Headcount
Live Event: 05/27/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)
Cybersecurity teams across higher education face escalating threats while operating with limited staffing and resources. This session will examine how artificial intelligence can help redesign security operations and strengthen cyber defense without increasing headcount. The presenter will share how AI-supported workflows reduce alert fatigue, accelerate incident response, and improve analyst effectiveness while maintaining human oversight. You’ll explore how cybersecurity initiatives can be aligned with institutional risk management and operational resilience and learn practical strategies for piloting AI-enabled security initiatives in a responsible and scalable way.
Jay James
Cybersecurity Operations Manager
Auburn University
Jay James is a cybersecurity leader and educator serving as a Cybersecurity Operations Manager at Auburn University, where he leads the Security Operations Center and advances enterprise security strategy across a complex higher education environment. Jay’s experience spans security operations, governance, risk, compliance, and AI enabled security initiatives; ultimately focusing on aligning cybersecurity with institutional mission, workforce development, and long-term digital resilience. He holds the CISSP and PMP certifications, along with a Master of Science in IT Cybersecurity and a Master of Business Administration, blending technical expertise with strategic business insight. His work sits at the intersection of cybersecurity, leadership, and responsible AI adoption in higher education. He has led initiatives that modernize security operations while intentionally developing student talent pipelines, strengthening institutional defenses and preparing the next generation of cyber professionals. Jay is known for building both people and programs. He has mentored and trained hundreds of students through structured SOC experiences, internships, formal educational programs, and workforce development pathways. His leadership philosophy emphasizes accountability, empowerment, and high standards paired with intentional mentorship. He views security not only as a technical function but as a leadership responsibility shaped by culture, clarity, and continuous growth. Beyond his institutional role, Jay has developed a strong national presence in higher education cybersecurity and AI literacy. He is an award recognized leader by EDUCAUSE and ISC2 and regularly speaks at conferences on AI governance, modern SOC strategy, inclusive leadership, and workforce development. Through his work, he challenges leaders to approach risk, innovation, and talent development with both rigor and vision.
CPE Available: 1 Credit in Information Technology
Each individual must register and attend separately to earn credit.
NACUBO is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website www.nasbaregistry.org
Event Information
- Level: Intermediate
- Prerequisites: Minimum 1-2 years of experience as a professional in higher education or a related private industry.
- Advanced Preparation: None
- Delivery Mode: Group internet based
- Field of Study: Information Technology
- Length: 60 minutes
Steps to Earn CPE Credit
You may only earn credit for attending the session live. CPE credit cannot be earned for watching the recordings.
To earn CPE credit, you will complete the following tasks under the Content tab, after the session has ended:
- Pass the CPE codeword quiz. Write down the codewords posted in the Zoom chat at random times throughout the session and complete the quiz at the end of the session.
- Submit the CPE check-out code displayed at the end of the session.
- Download your CPE certificate.
You have until 5 pm Eastern Time on May 28, 2026 to complete these three steps or report technology issues with this site to online@nacubo.org.
For more detailed instructions, review the CPE Instructions page.
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