Course Abstract:

This introductory seminar introduces students to Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) and its role in modern cybersecurity programs. The session emphasizes the mindset needed to navigate ambiguity in GRC work, the role of frameworks and standards as decision-support tools, and the importance of continuous learning. Students will participate in a brief audit simulation to experience how GRC concepts translate into real-world practice.

Omowunmi Akinyoade

Bio:

Omowunmi Akinyoade is a cyber assurance leader with over 25 years of experience spanning multiple industries and technology environments. She currently serves as Senior Director of Cybersecurity Compliance at Pegasystems, where she leads third-party risk management and compliance certification programs. Omowunmi brings a human-centered, systems-oriented perspective to cybersecurity, with a focus on how people, process, and technology interact to shape risk outcomes amid evolving threats, business pressures, and competing requirements. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, and a Master’s degree in Information Technology from Carnegie Mellon University, and maintains CISA, CISSP, and CISM certifications. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and traveling.