Amy Diestler

SMPH Chief Information Security Officer

School of Medicine and Public Health | Department of Informatics and Information Technology

Hometown: Janesville, WI

Amy Diestler is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, where she serves as the primary architect for the cybersecurity strategic vision. With a career defined by her ability to bridge technical requirements with business objectives, Amy specializes in developing comprehensive roadmaps that integrate NIST frameworks, IT policy, and risk management into the organizational fabric. Having held previous roles at TDS Telecommunications and Baker Tilly, she brings a sophisticated, multi-industry perspective to long-term security planning and governance. Amy is a CISA and GSLC-certified professional who holds an MBA from UW-Whitewater.

Talks:

Cybersecurity Trends in Higher Education & Healthcare

This presentation breaks down today’s primary threat vectors—from AI-driven phishing and multi-extortion ransomware to third-party supply chain vulnerabilities. We unpack how high-target sectors like healthcare and higher education are navigating these pressures focused on preventing operational disruption, regulatory fallout, and data exfiltration. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of cybersecurity risks and trends in higher education and healthcare.

Click Responsibly - Staying Safe Online Without Losing Your Mind

In today’s hyper-connected world, protecting your digital life requires more than just basic caution. This session delivers an actionable framework to lock down your personal cybersecurity and safeguard your digital identity. Learn how to implement bulletproof authentication habits, navigate AI-driven phishing and smishing tactics engineered to trick you, and keep your devices secure whether you are on your home network or traveling on public Wi-Fi. Walk away with a clear, step-by-step incident response plan to minimize harm if a breach ever strikes.

Imposter Syndrome

70% – 84% of people experience Imposter Syndrome. You will discover individual and team strategies for overcoming Imposter Syndrome, as well as how to support someone experiencing Imposter Syndrome. This is an interactive presentation that will allow you to practice these strategies as you learn about them.

Cybersecurity GRC

Cybersecurity Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) is often the overlooked and misunderstood subset of cybersecurity. GRC helps organizations meet compliance, manage risk, and provide governance. It is not a singular solution, but rather an overall strategy. It allows an organization to be more aware, aligned, and agile.