April 9, 2026

A Legacy of Leadership: Farewell to President & CEO Laura Nelson

As Laura Nelson prepares to conclude her tenure as President & CEO of the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF), we’re marking the moment with a meaningful conversation that reflects on her remarkable career and lasting contributions.

In this special #CyberChats episode, host Kennedy Taylor Tibbetts sits down with Laura to look back on 37 years at the National Security Agency and her influential leadership at the NCF since 2019. Together, they explore her experiences building resilient organizations, mentoring future leaders, and strengthening the vital partnership between the NCF and the NSA—all while expanding programs that educate and engage the broader community.

It’s a candid and reflective discussion, filled with the people, purpose, and defining moments that have shaped her journey.

We invite you to listen in as we celebrate a leader whose impact reaches far beyond her role—helping shape the future of cybersecurity and inspiring the next generation along the way.

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Episode Guests

Laura Nelson

Laura Nelson joined the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) as President and CEO in early 2019. She is leading the Foundation’s growing partnership with the National Security Agency as well the NCF’s Education and Engagement programs. Laura retired from the National Security Agency in 2018 after a 37-year career. For over 15 years, Laura was a member of the Defense Intelligence Senior Executive Service (DISES) where she led multiple technical organizations in a variety of mission areas in both the Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), Information Assurance, and Operations directorates. An energetic leader, Laura has extensive experience in building organizations, recruiting talent, fostering innovation, and developing policies and strategies to execute the mission. She received the Meritorious Presidential Rank Award in 2012.

Laura holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Virginia Tech.

About the Host: Kennedy Taylor Tibbets

Kennedy Taylor Tibbetts is a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant for Ernst and Young, where she specializes in Cybersecurity Supply Chain Risk Management (C-SCRM) for federal clients. She obtained her Master’s in Cybersecurity Risk Management from Georgetown University and a professional certification in data privacy. Kennedy’s passion for empowering youth has led her to take on a new role as host of the NCF’s #CyberChats podcast.

Fun Fact: Kennedy was Miss Maryland in 2023 and placed in the top 10 at Miss America.

cyberchats podcast show host kennedy taylor tibbets cyber chats ncf

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