Event Recap
| Video | Photo Gallery | Sponsors | Speakers
The 2nd Annual Cocktails & Codebreakers – co-hosted by the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) and the Intelligence and National Security Foundation (INSF) took place on 11 October 2023 in Hanover, Maryland.
The program celebrated “Men and Women in Cryptology” and featured a Fireside Chat with guest speakers The Honorable Ronald S. Moultrie, Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security (USDI&S) and GEN Paul M. Nakasone, Commander, U.S. Cyber Command; Director, National Security Agency; Chief, Central Security Service. Our Fireside Chat was moderated by Greg Myre, NPR National Security Correspondent. Learn more about our special guest speakers below on this page.
We were also pleased to have author Jason Fagone join us for the evening and sign copies of his fantastic book about Elizebeth Friedman. The event also featured a special In Memoriam tribute to Dr. Scott Dade.
View a PDF of the printed program.
The NCF and INSF are deeply grateful to ALL of our generous program sponsors and host committee members.
Photo Gallery
Speakers
Hon. Ronald Moultrie
Greg Myre
National Security Correspondent
GEN Paul M. Nakasone
NSA/CSS
Thank you Sponsors!
Interested in sponsoring a future program? Contact Rebecca Diamond at rdiamond@cryptologicfoundation.org for more information.
Sandbox AQ
Video Sponsor
MANTECH
Swag Bag Sponsor
Leidos
Registration Sponsor
Black Cape
After-Event Goodbye Gift Sponsor
Thales Trusted Cyber Technologies
Crypto Sponsor
GEBA
Crypto Sponsor
Carahsoft Corporation
Crypto Sponsor
Tower Federal Credit Union (TFCU)
Cyber Sponsor
SIMS Software
Cyber Sponsor
Squadra Ventures
Cyber Sponsor
Apira Avatars
Cyber Sponsor
UMGC | University of Maryland Global Campus
Cyber Sponsor
Clearance Jobs
Media Sponsor
The Intelligence Community.com
Media Sponsor
Booz Allen Hamilton
Host Committee Member
Toni Verstandig
Host Committee Member
Richard Chilton
Host Committee Member
Oren J. Falkowitz
Host Committee Member
Overview
Cocktails & Codebreakers is co-hosted by the NCF and the Intelligence and National Security Foundation (INSF). This signature event blends community, conversation, and cryptologic history. Held in a relaxed social setting, it brings together former intelligence professionals, rising leaders, and curious minds to share stories, build connections, and celebrate the people behind the mission.
More than just a reception, this event honors the human side of cyber—highlighting the personal experiences, lessons, and legacies that have shaped the cryptologic field. Guests enjoy drinks, light fare, and informal storytelling from figures who’ve served on the front lines of national security and innovation.
Whether you’re reconnecting with longtime colleagues or discovering the NCF for the first time, Cocktails & Codebreakers offers a unique space to engage with the past and take part in the future. It’s a celebration of service, shared purpose, and the enduring community behind cryptology.