12TH ANNUAL
CONFERENCE
Cyber Security in the Global Digital Economy
DECEMBER 4-5, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C.
2025 FRENCH-AMERICAN CYBER SECURITY CONFERENCE
ABOUT THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE
This year’s conference theme is Cyber Security in the Global Digital Economy. On Day 1, we will begin with an industry-focused exploration of how organizations navigate risk in a rapidly evolving technological and geopolitical environment. We will then turn to the critical question of governance: how to balance the imperative of protection with the equally vital need to foster innovation. Breakout sessions will allow us to dive more deeply into a series of specialized topics including agentic artificial intelligence, stablecoin regulation, workforce and talent gaps, China’s cybersecurity posture and the challenges this presents across Africa, and the role of autonomy in conflict. The afternoon will address threats to telecommunications critical infrastructure, culminating in a keynote address by Vint Cerf, one of the founding architects of the internet. The day will close with a reception at the French Ambassador’s residence, underscoring the importance of diplomacy and international partnership in this domain.
On Day 2, our focus will shift to defense and emerging technologies. We will examine the role of AI and autonomy in military contexts, followed by a panel on the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its dual role as both a source of new vulnerabilities and a tool for enhanced cyber defense. The conference will conclude with a high-level dialogue on international cyber cooperation, situating cyber security within the broader geopolitical context and emphasizing the need for collective action across borders.
ABOUT THE FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION
Founded in 1976, the French-American Foundation is the only organization dedicated solely to sustaining and strengthening the French-American relationship at the highest levels of leadership. The Foundation works to build lasting, practical working ties between France and the United States and to advance solutions to problems of shared concern. Through this work, the Foundation perpetuates more than two centuries of shared ideals and friendship to meet the challenges of the 21st century together. The Foundation’s structure — sister organizations in New York (FAF U.S.) and Paris (FAF France) that share a common name, a parallel legal structure, and a common mission, but operate independently — makes it uniquely positioned to collaborate closely and address the specific interests and needs of constituents on both sides of the Atlantic.
SPEAKERS & MODERATORS
DECEMBER
9:00-9:25
WELCOME REMARKS
Ambassador Laurent Bili
EMBASSY OF FRANCE IN THE U.S.
A graduate of the French National School of Public Administration (ENA) (Victor Hugo Year, 1989–1991), Laurent Bili joined the French Foreign Ministry’s Strategic Affairs and Disarmament Directorate (1991-93). Seconded to the Defence Ministry as Deputy Diplomatic Adviser (1993–1995), he then held several positions at the Quai d’Orsay: First Secretary and then Second Counsellor at the French Embassy in Ankara (1995–1999); First Secretary, Permanent Representative of France to the Western European Union (WEU) (1998-2000); Adviser to the European Union’s interim Political and Security Committee (PSC) in Brussels (2000–2002); Head of Strategic Affairs (2002). In 2002, he was Director of the Private Office of the Minister Delegate for European Affairs and became technical adviser at the Diplomatic Unit of the Presidency of the French Republic (2002–2007). He successively held the positions of Ambassador to Thailand (2007–2009), Director of the Defence Minister’s Civilian and Military Office (2009–2010), Ambassador to Turkey (2011-15) and then to Brazil (2015–2017). Laurent Bili was then Director-General for Global Affairs, Culture, Education and International Development at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and G7/G20 Sous-Sherpa (2017–2019). Laurent Bili was Ambassador to China from September 2019 until January 2023. He has been Ambassador to the United States since 2023.
General (ret.) Jean-Paul Paloméros
FRENCH-AMERICAN
FOUNDATION–FRANCE
After assuming a national high responsibility as the Chief of French Air Force (2009-2012), General Jean-Paul Paloméros led NATO’s military transformation (2012-2015). As NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) General Paloméros supported the 28 Allied Nations in preparing the future together in terms of military strategy, capability development, education, training and exercises. Ahead of Allied Command Transformation, he developed ambitious plans to increase NATO’s military efficiency and readiness through improved multinational cooperation, reenergized exercise policy and innovation. During his command tour, General Paloméros put a high priority on NATO force’s operational preparation, fostering the synergy between Allied Nations and the cooperation with Partner organizations, nations, with Industry, Science and technology, Universities and many other stakeholders. During more than 10 years within the French Air Force General Paloméros prepared and led major transformations to modernize the French Air Force’s capabilities and organization. General Paloméros took part in many operations as a fighter pilot, as a staff officer and as Commander in the Balkans and in Africa. In 2011, he was the head of the French Air Force which successfully took a major role in Operations over Libya to protect civilian populations. General Paloméros has logged more than 4000 flying hours on fighter jets and took part in 82 combat missions. He graduated from the French Air Force Academy in 1973, and was awarded the Curtis Prize within the 84th Royal Air Force Advanced Staff Course. General Jean-Paul Paloméros has been elevated to the rank of Great Officer in the “Légion d’Honneur”; he has been elevated recently to the highest rank of Great Cross in the National Order of Merit. He was also awarded the prestigious aeronautics’ medal, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal and many other foreign distinctions. General Paloméros is Vice Chairman of the French-American Foundation – France and President of the Steering Committee of its Cyber Security Program.
DECEMBER
Edward C. Wallace
FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–U.S.
Edward C. Wallace serves as Co-Chairman of Greenberg Traurig's NY office. Ed has experience in law, business, and government. He serves as a trusted advisor to companies doing business with government—usually local government—where real estate is part of the transaction. He serves as outside counsel to JCDecaux North America. He has advised Fetner Properties, Extell/Carlyle, Silverstein/El Ad, Columbia University, NYU and Fordham on major real estate development projects. He has negotiated long term municipal contracts for major government service providers including JCDecaux and Hornblower. Prior to entering the private sector as a Vice President at Boston Properties, he served as City Council Member-at-Large (Manhattan) and then Chief of Staff to the New York City Council President. Ed began his career at the Legal Aid Society, first in the Criminal Appeals Division and then in the Chelsea neighborhood office of the Legal Aid Civil Division. Ed chairs the French American Foundation USA. He serves as vice president and pro bono general counsel to the Citizens Budget Commission and he is an emertitus member of the board and previously the chair. He served as counsel to NYC 2012, the City’s Olympic bid. Ed has been listed in multiple editions of The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers and is rated AV Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubbell. He is consistently included on City and State’s "New York City Power 100" list and was named a 2020 Lifetime Achievement honoree. He drove a NYC Taxi during college.
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
9:25-10:30
NAVIGATING CYBER SECURITY RISK IN A RAPIDLY
EVOLVING GLOBAL DIGITAL ECONOMY–AN INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE
Dr. Homaira Akbari
ACKNOWLEDGE
PARTNERS, LLC
Dr. Homaira Akbari is CEO of AKnowledge Partners, a global advisory firm specializing in digital transformation and technology sectors of Cybersecurity, AI, IoT, Energy Transition, and FinTech. She serves on the Board of Directors of Banco Santander and Landstar System, and is a member of Telefónica Security Advisory Board. She has held senior management roles in Fortune 1000 companies including Microsoft, Thales, and Liberty Media subsidiary, Trueposition. She served as the CEO of SkyBitz, Inc., and successfully sold it to Telular Corporation (NASDAQ: WRLS). She holds a Ph.D. in particle physics from Tufts University and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business. She is the author of numerous scientific articles, governance and technology OpEds and Podcasts, and the book: The Cyber Savvy Boardroom. She is a faculty member at DCRO Risk Governance Institute and a guest lecturer at ecoDa.eu.
Chloe Demrovsky (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '19) NYU SPS CENTER FOR GLOBAL AFFAIRS | EDGEWOOD INSIGHTS
Chloe Demrovsky is a purpose-driven executive leader currently serving as Executive in Residence and Visiting Clinical Assistant Professor in Global Business and Economy at the NYU SPS Center for Global Affairs and Founder of Edgewood Insights, an independent advisory firm at the nexus of risk and resilience. She served as President and CEO of Disaster Recovery Institute International (2017-24) and held leadership roles there for more than a decade. She is a senior Forbes contributor, has appeared on all major networks and been quoted widely in the media. She was inducted to the FEMA National Advisory Council (2023-25), was a Council on Foreign Relations Term Member (2019-25), and a Crain’s New York 2023 Notable Leader. She is a current Millennium Leadership Fellow (2025-26) of the Atlantic Council, a Scott M. Johnson Fellow of the US-Japan Foundation (2018-19), a French-American Foundation Young Leader (2019) and a British-American Project Fellow (2022). Current board appointments include the French-American Foundation (Vice-Chair), OPmobility’s (EPA: POM) Global Advisory Board, The Sustainability Board Institute, and previous at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Global ARISE Board (2020-23) and Bard College at Simon’s Rock (Vice-Chair) (2019-24).
Stephenie Gosnell Handler (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '12)
GIBSON
DUNN
Stephenie Gosnell Handler is a partner in Gibson Dunn’s Washington, D.C. office, where she is a member of the International Trade and Privacy, Cybersecurity, and Data Innovation practices. She advises clients on complex legal, regulatory, and compliance issues relating to international trade, cybersecurity, and technology matters. Stephenie ’s legal advice is deeply informed by her operational cybersecurity and in-house legal experience at McKinsey & Company, and also by her active duty service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Stephenie is regularly recognized for her excellence in the field, most recently being named to Financier Worldwide Magazine’s Power Players: Foreign Investment & National Security 2025 – Distinguished Advisers report. Lawdragon named Stephenie to their 500 Leading Global Cyber Lawyers (2024-2025) and 100 Leading AI and Legal Tech Advisors list (2024-2025). She was also recognized in Foreign Investment Watch’s Top Advisors list for 2024 and 2025, which highlights “top advisors who provide advice and counsel concerning foreign investment and national security in the U.S. and abroad.” Stephenie returned to Gibson Dunn as a partner of the Washington, D.C. office after serving as Director of Cybersecurity Strategy and Digital Acceleration at McKinsey & Company. In this role, she led development of the firm’s cybersecurity strategy and advised senior leadership on public policy and geopolitical trends relating to cybersecurity, technology, and data. Stephenie managed a team of experienced professionals responsible for the firm’s cybersecurity strategic initiatives, cybersecurity standards and certifications program, lifecycle governance initiatives, data analytics and optimization,
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND
and digital acceleration efforts across the cyber domain. She previously led McKinsey’s in-house cybersecurity legal team, where she advised on diverse global cybersecurity and technology matters, including strategic legal issues, data localization, regulatory compliance, risk management, governance, preparedness, and response. Stephenie frequently advised at the intersection of cybersecurity, technology, and data and export control and sanctions requirements. Previously, Stephenie was a senior associate at a leading international law firm, where she focused her practice on international trade matters including CFIUS, export controls, and sanctions, and cybersecurity matters across the cybersecurity risk management and incident lifecycle, including assessments, incident response preparedness, incident response, regulatory compliance, transactional due diligence, and regulatory enforcement actions. Stephenie started her legal career at Gibson Dunn, where she focused on international trade, cybersecurity, and transactional matters. Stephenie earned her J.D. from Stanford University in 2011. She earned her M.A. from Georgetown University and her B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy, both in 2001. Prior to attending law school, Stephenie served as officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, where she focused on logistics and political-military affairs during her seven years of active duty service.
Jamil Jiva (FR YOUNG LEADER '24)
LINEDATA ASSET MANAGEMENT
Jamil Jiva is the Managing Director of Linedata Asset Management. Linedata is an international fintech company listed on NYSE-Euronext Paris dedicated to serving financial institutions. Jamil’s mission encompasses driving the Group’s global development and growth. Jamil plays a pivotal role in Linedata’s acquisition strategy, evidenced by the recent acquisitions of French AI startup DreamQuark and the Portuguese company Audaxys. Leveraging his experience gained in France and North America, Jamil now leads a team of over 400 professionals across 15 countries at Linedata. In collaboration with its customers, Linedata is at the forefront of shaping the future of finance by harnessing cutting-edge technologies to enhance strategic decision-making in investment, financing, and risk assessment. Jamil is a key player for Linedata’s commitment to innovation. He strengthens strategic partnerships, notably with MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), invigorates the internal startup program and enriches the ecosystem of customers and partners. Jamil believes in driving initiatives with significant environmental and social impact. He promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace, supports access to education in disadvantaged areas, and advocates for sustainable finance through technological innovation.
Eric Wenger CISCO
Eric Wenger is Senior Director for technology policy and leads Cisco’s government affairs work globally on a range of policy issues related to cybersecurity and AI. Eric came to Cisco from Microsoft, where he was Policy Counsel. He was a Trial Attorney in the Department of Justice’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and a Special Assistant United States Attorney in DC’s Computer Hacking & Intellectual Property Unit. He served as an Attorney in the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection and an Attorney Advisor to then Commissioner Leary. He was also Assistant Attorney General in New York, where he started the first statewide law enforcement unit in the U.S. focused on e-commerce. Eric earned his undergraduate degree at Cornell University and graduated with Honors from George Washington University Law School.
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
11:00-12:15
BALANCING PROTECTION VERSUS DRIVING INNOVATION –EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE FOR A GLOBAL DIGITAL ECONOMY
Norman Barbosa MICROSOFT
Norman leads Microsoft’s global law enforcement, national security and telecommunications public policy and compliance efforts as General Manager and Associate General Counsel, Microsoft Law Enforcement, National Security and Telecom Policy and Compliance. He is responsible for developing and implementing Microsoft’s policies to promote the privacy and security interests of its customers related to government access to data. He is also responsible for coordinating Microsoft’s lawful access and telecom policies with the company’s cyber security, privacy, digital safety, and cybercrime policies. Prior to joining Microsoft, Norman was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Washington where he led the Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property Crimes unit and National Security Cyber investigations. Norman graduated from California State University Sacramento with degrees in History and Russian and earned his Juris Doctorate at the University of Washington.
Adam Klein (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '22)
ROBERT STRAUSS CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL SECURITY AND LAW, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
Adam Klein is Director of the Robert Strauss Center on International Security and Law at the University of Texas at Austin. He also holds a faculty appointment at the University of Texas School of Law, where he teaches courses on counterterrorism, foreign relations, intelligence, government surveillance, and AI, and chairs the university’s Advisory Committee on Classified Research. Before joining the Strauss Center, Adam served as Chairman of the United States Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, the independent, bipartisan federal agency responsible for overseeing counterterrorism programs at the NSA, FBI, CIA, Department of Homeland Security, and other federal agencies. As the Board’s Senate-confirmed Chairman, he oversaw its oversight and advice engagements with other federal agencies, while also serving as the Board’s chief executive officer. Before entering government, Adam was the Robert M. Gates Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security, a bipartisan national-security research institution in Washington, DC. There, his research focused on government surveillance, intelligence powers, and national security law. Previously, Adam practiced law at Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale & Dorr, LLP and served as a law clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia of the U.S. Supreme Court and Judge Brett Kavanaugh of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. He has also worked on national-security policy at the RAND Corporation, the 9/11 Public Discourse Project (the non-profit successor to the 9/11 Commission), and in the U.S. Congress. He received his BA from Northwestern University and his JD from Columbia Law School.
João Moita joined Airbus as Corporate & Commercial Aircraft Chief Information Security Officer in February. He brings more than 20 years of international cyber security experience in Europe and LATAM to Airbus. He began his career as a software developer before joining the Enterprise Risk Services team at Deloitte & Touche in Lisbon. Joining Siemens in 2010, he held several positions within the security space before leading Siemens’ cyber security defence centres globally. He then joined GSK as a Business Unit CISO and OT Program Lead in 2019 and between 2022–early 2024, he was Group CISO for Merck, globally responsible for cyber security and risk within the Merck Group.
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
13:15-14:15
BREAKOUT DISCUSSIONS
Dr. Bulelani Jili
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY | HARVARD UNIVERSITY
Dr. Bulelani Jili is an Assistant Professor at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, where he holds appointments in the African Studies Program and the Science, Technology, and International Affairs (STIA) Program. He also serves as a Faculty Associate at Harvard Law School’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society. He sits on the Advisory Board of the International Panel on Social Progress and previously sat on the IEEE Standards Association’s Global Initiative on the Ethics of Autonomous and Intelligent Systems. A leading scholar of Africa–China relations, cybersecurity, and the political economy of digital infrastructure, his work operates at the intersection of global governance, law, and emerging technologies. Dr. Jili has advised governments, multilateral institutions, and major technology firms, including OpenAI, Meta Platforms, the French government, Freedom House, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the U.S. State Department, and the United Nations General Assembly. His research and commentary have appeared in premier journals and media outlets such as Nature, African Affairs, The Economist, Politico, BBC, and the Financial Times. He is the recipient of several prestigious awards, honors, and fellowships for this work. Dr. Jili earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University, an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge, and an M.A. from Peking University’s Yenching Academy.
Valerie Kennedy CHAINALYSIS
Valerie Kennedy is a recognized leader in cyber investigations, cryptocurrency, and emerging technologies, serving as the Director of Investigations at Chainalysis. In this role, she helps shape the future of cyber resilience and blockchain security, supporting businesses and governments in navigating the challenges of today’s digital landscape. With expertise in cybered conflict, emerging technologies, and the post-Soviet space, Valerie brings a nuanced understanding to the intersection of geopolitics and technology. Her experience includes combatting disinformation during her time with the German Marshall Fund and UNICEF’s Emergency Field Office in Ukraine, enhancing her ability to address complex global challenges. Valerie frequently represents Chainalysis in global forums, including a recent address to the UN Security Council, where she spoke on the role of emerging technologies in countering threats to peace and security. Recognized as a trusted voice on CNBC and other high-profile platforms, Valerie provides critical insights on sanctions evasion, hybrid warfare, disinformation, and cyber threats, offering a valuable perspective on issues that shape national and international security.
João Moita
AIRBUS
13:15-14:15
BREAKOUT DISCUSSIONS (CONTINUED)
Dr. Newton Campbell Jr. (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '22) NASA | UN ITU
Dr. Newton Campbell Jr. is an AI Subject-Matter Expert advising the UN’s “Early Warning for All” program and a Senior AI Researcher with NASA OCIO. With nearly 20 years of experience across NASA, DOD, and other public sector ecosystems, his research spans geospatial AI for disaster alerts, urban air mobility, geomagnetics, space exploration, science investigation, and multiomics analysis for space radiation. He has also used OSINT and network analysis to track environmental policy shifts. Formerly the inaugural Space Director for Australia’s AROSE Consortium, he oversaw lunar-rover and climate mitigation technologies. In 2024, he became the youngest board member of The Planetary Society and co-founded the non-profit Heritage Space Food, winning NASA’s Space Tech Catalyst Prize for integrating culture and exploration through gastrodiplomacy. Dr. Campbell holds a PhD in Computer Science and is a fellow at institutions like the Atlantic Council and American University’s Washington College of Law. A recognized Young Leader by the French-American Foundation, he is now developing Sustainable Development Links (SDLinks), a trans-Atlantic consortium using AI and OSINT to advance sustainability goals.
Michael Kuiper
5ROCKS GLOBAL, LLC
Michael Kuiper is President of 5Rocks Global, a service-disabled veteran-owned firm focused on cyber defense, training, and infrastructure resilience. He serves as an Adjunct Instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy and coaches the Academy’s Disruptive Technologies Team. A first-generation American with family roots in Ukraine, he retired from the U.S. Marine Corps after a 24-year career that included eight deployments to more than 45 countries. Drawing on operational experience across former Soviet states, the Middle East, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific, Michael now works at the intersection of cybersecurity, robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), and humanitarian response. He has supported USAID missions in Ukraine, Moldova, and Poland; helped partners harden critical infrastructure and logistics networks against cyber and physical disruption; and advised organizations on the employment of emerging technologies in complex conflict environments. Michael holds a master’s degree in international studies from Johns Hopkins SAIS, with a focus on Russia, and a master’s degree in software engineering from Colorado Technical University. He teaches Cybersecurity and Autonomy & Control in Naval Weapon Systems at the U.S. Naval Academy and regularly briefs governments, industry, and NGOs on lessons from the war in Ukraine for cyber resilience, RAS employment, and future conflict.
Agathe Martin-Gougenheim
RUSSELL REYNOLDS
Agathe advises technology companies with their C-suite, CEO and board hires. Based in Paris, she leads executive searches in Europe and globally, across telecoms and digital infrastructure, technology services, and software and cloud. Additionally, she specializes in recruiting cybersecurity leaders broadly across industries. She has extensive experience working with listed companies, family enterprises, and private equity portfolio companies. Prior to joining the firm in 2018, Agathe worked in London and Paris and spent three years with Kroll, a global investigations and business intelligence company, where she advised international companies and public sector organizations on matters relating to risks, forensics, fraud, and disputes. Agathe holds a master’s degree in international security from Sciences Po in Paris.
DECEMBER
14:30-15:45
CYBER VULNERABILITIES OF GLOBAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS
CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Jeohn Salone Favors (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '25)
Jeohn Salone Favors is an attorney and former senior U.S. government official who served as the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Counterterrorism, Threat Prevention, and Law Enforcement Policy in the Biden-Harris administration. His earlier roles in government include service as a CIA operations officer, American diplomat, White House staffer, and Justice Department official. In private practice, Mr. Favors practiced law at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, where he litigated criminal and civil matters, conducted complex internal investigations, and advised a wide range of clients on emerging technology, compliance, crisis management, strategy, and governance issues. At the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Mr. Favors served as the senior executive responsible for national policy and programs spanning counterterrorism, counternarcotics, counter-drone and unmanned aircraft systems, global transportation security, transnational organized crime, human trafficking, and child sexual exploitation and abuse. In addition, Mr. Favors helmed DHS’s planning for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and oversaw Department-wide law enforcement policy for the 80,000+ officers and agents serving across the homeland security enterprise — the largest law enforcement entity in the federal government. Prior to joining DHS, Mr. Favors served in the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division as Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for National Security. At DOJ, Mr. Favors served on the Division’s senior management team and led interagency efforts to obtain custody of high-profile targets, including the Libyan intelligence officer charged with building the bomb used in the 1988 attack on Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland and a cell of Iranian proxies involved in assassination plotting on U.S. soil. Earlier in his career, Mr. Favors served as a counterterrorism-focused CIA operations officer, who embedded with U.S. special operations forces in war zones to disrupt terrorist plots against the homeland. As a National Security Council staffer in the Obama White House, Mr. Favors helped orchestrate early, backchannel contacts and diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran, which culminated ultimately in the Iran nuclear deal. A native of rural South Louisiana, Mr. Favors began his career in public service as a volunteer firefighter-EMT who responded to New Orleans and helped rescue hundreds of disaster victims from catastrophic flooding in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Favors holds a B.A. from Yale University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School.
Hugues Foulon ORANGE GROUP | ORANGE CYBERDEFENSE
Hugues Foulon has been Executive Director of the Orange Group and CEO of Orange Cyberdefense since 2018. He began his career in 1994 at “Générale des Eaux” (Veolia Group), where he became director of a drinking water plant and then director of the companies “Monégasque de Télédistribution” and “Monégasque des Eaux”. In 2000, he made his first foray into the world of telecommunications by joining Monaco Telecom, part of the Vivendi Group, as Deputy Managing Director in charge of functional departments. In 2005, he joined the Group as Commercial Finance Director for the Mobile business. He remained there for two years before leaving for North Africa to become Director of Management Control at Maroc Telecom. In 2007, he returned to Orange, where he held successive positions as Director of Management Control for the Marketing and Innovation division, Director to the Group’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of finance, and then Chief Financial Officer for the Africa and Middle East division. He was then appointed Director to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Orange and Secretary of the Group’s Executive Committee. He is a graduate of the “Ecole Polytechnique” and the “Ecole Nationale Superieure de Techniques Avancées (ENSTA)”. He is also an auditor of the 66th session on defense policy at the “Institut des Hautes Etudes de Defense Nationale (IHEDN)”.
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
14:30-15:45
CYBER VULNERABILITIES OF GLOBAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS
CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE (CONTINUED)
Susan Hennessey
WILMERHALE
Susan Hennessey is a Counsel at WilmerHale, where she focuses on national security, technology and defense-related matters. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Hennessey served as Chief Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for National Security and Chief of Staff of DOJ's National Security Division. Before joining the Justice Department, Ms. Hennessey was a Senior Fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution and served as Executive Editor of Lawfare. She began her legal career as an attorney in the Office of General Counsel at the NSA.
Océane Thieriot
EMBASSY OF FRANCE IN WASHINGTON, DC
Océane Thieriot has been serving since September 2022 as Counselor for Cyber, Digital and Emerging Tech at the French Embassy in DC, where she leads on digital policy, cybersecurity and emerging technologies. A career diplomat, she previously held positions in Paris and Brussels focused on EU affairs, working on Brexit negotiations, EU climate legislation, the EU’s COVID-19 response and the French Presidency of the Council of the EU. She is a graduate of the Ecole Normale Supérieure, Sciences Po, and the Ecole Nationale d’Administration.
DECEMBER 4th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
16:00-17:00
KEYNOTE SESSION
General (ret.) Jean-Paul Paloméros
FRENCH-AMERICAN
FOUNDATION–FRANCE
After assuming a national high responsibility as the Chief of French Air Force (2009-2012), General Jean-Paul Paloméros led NATO’s military transformation (2012-2015). As NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) General Paloméros supported the 28 Allied Nations in preparing the future together in terms of military strategy, capability development, education, training and exercises. Ahead of Allied Command Transformation, he developed ambitious plans to increase NATO’s military efficiency and readiness through improved multinational cooperation, reenergized exercise policy and innovation. During his command tour, General Paloméros put a high priority on NATO force’s operational preparation, fostering the synergy between Allied Nations and the cooperation with Partner organizations, nations, with Industry, Science and technology, Universities and many other stakeholders. During more than 10 years within the French Air Force General Paloméros prepared and led major transformations to modernize the French Air Force’s capabilities and organization. General Paloméros took part in many operations as a fighter pilot, as a staff officer and as Commander in the Balkans and in Africa. In 2011, he was the head of the French Air Force which successfully took a major role in Operations over Libya to protect civilian populations. General Paloméros has logged more than 4000 flying hours on fighter jets and took part in 82 combat missions. He graduated from the French Air Force Academy in 1973, and was awarded the Curtis Prize within the 84th Royal Air Force Advanced Staff Course. General Jean-Paul Paloméros has been elevated to the rank of Great Officer in the “Légion d’Honneur”; he has been elevated recently to the highest rank of Great Cross in the National Order of Merit. He was also awarded the prestigious aeronautics’ medal, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal and many other foreign distinctions. General Paloméros is Vice Chairman of the French-American Foundation – France and President of the Steering Committee of its Cyber Security Program.
Dr. Cara LaPointe (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '16)
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
Cara LaPointe is the Director of Analysis at Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET). She previously served as the Director of Strategic Assessment for the Department of the Navy (DON), where she conducted independent, data-driven assessments and led the Naval Strategic Studies Group. Prior to the DON, she worked at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab where she was the Co-Director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Assured Autonomy, leading multi-disciplinary research to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled autonomous systems are safe, secure, and ethical contributors to society. Earlier at the Georgetown University Beeck Center for Social Impact and Innovation, Cara drove the development of the Blockchain Ethical Design Framework. She spent over two decades as a naval officer serving in diverse operational, technical, and acquisition roles at sea and ashore. Cara holds a Ph.D. in oceanographic and mechanical engineering jointly from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, a Naval Engineer’s degree and an M.S. in ocean systems management from MIT, an M.Phil. in international development from the University of Oxford, and a B.S. in ocean engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy.
DECEMBER 5th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
9:10-9:30
FIRESIDE CHAT
Anne Neuberger (US YOUNG LEADER '15)
Anne Neuberger is an internationally recognized leader in cybersecurity, risk management, and emerging technology policy, with deep expertise developed through senior roles at the White House and National Security Agency. Her strategic acumen and crisis leadership, and collaborative approach with global partners have earned her a reputation for delivering impact in high-stakes environments. She is Senior Advisor at a16z, a Distinguished Fellow at Stanford University and the Royal United Services Institute and a strategic advisor at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. Ms. Neuberger served as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor in the Biden Administration. In that role she had primary responsibility for national policy around cyber warfare, cybersecurity and emerging technologies, including quantum, spectrum and advanced telecommunications (5G/6G) and components of AI policy. She has built and led international coalitions to address transnational threats, most notably establishing the U.S. Counter-Ransomware Initiative, which now includes over 70 partner countries. She has extensive experience coordinating diplomatic, law enforcement, and industry efforts, translating complex technical challenges into actionable strategies and outcomes. Prior to this role she served for over a decade at NSA and the Pentagon in senior roles where she was responsible for setting strategic direction and guiding execution of complex, global operations. She has led major organizational transformations, including the creation of NSA’s Cybersecurity Directorate (4,000 people), where she drove operational integration and public-private collaboration. At NSA, she was appointed the civilian deputy director of global intelligence operations (19,000 professionals) and director of the Cybersecurity Directorate. In 2013, she was appointed NSA’s first Chief Risk Officer, following sensitive media disclosures of NSA’s operations. In that role, Ms. Neuberger built NSA’s enterprise risk management program and guided the rebuilding of NSA’s private sector and foreign partner partnerships. She was awarded DoD and NSA’s highest civilian awards, as well as a Presidential Rank Award. Prior to her government service, Ms. Neuberger held several positions related to technology and operations at a large financial services firm. Throughout her government and private sector roles she continued to devote significant effort to transformative non-profit projects. Ms. Neuberger has an MBA and Master of International Affairs from Columbia University.
Dr. Newton Campbell Jr. (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '22) NASA | UN ITU
Dr. Newton Campbell Jr. is an AI Subject-Matter Expert advising the UN’s “Early Warning for All” program and a Senior AI Researcher with NASA OCIO. With nearly 20 years of experience across NASA, DOD, and other public sector ecosystems, his research spans geospatial AI for disaster alerts, urban air mobility, geomagnetics, space exploration, science investigation, and multiomics analysis for space radiation. He has also used OSINT and network analysis to track environmental policy shifts. Formerly the inaugural Space Director for Australia’s AROSE Consortium, he oversaw lunar-rover and climate mitigation technologies. In 2024, he became the youngest board member of The Planetary Society and co-founded the non-profit Heritage Space Food, winning NASA’s Space Tech Catalyst Prize for integrating culture and exploration through gastrodiplomacy. Dr. Campbell holds a PhD in Computer Science and is a fellow at institutions like the Atlantic Council and American University’s Washington College of Law. A recognized Young Leader by the French-American Foundation, he is now developing Sustainable Development Links (SDLinks), a trans-Atlantic consortium using AI and OSINT to advance sustainability goals.
DECEMBER 5th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
9:30-10:20
AI AND AUTONOMY FOR DEFENSE
Major Charles-Arthur Billot ÉCOLE DE GUERRE
Major Charles-Arthur Billot joined the French Army in 2009 and graduated from the French Officer Academy of Saint Cyr in 2012. A field artillery officer, he served as a platoon leader and a battery commander in the 40th Field Artillery Battalion. Between 2021 and 2024, he was a staff officer at the French Army's Doctrine Center. He was deployed five times for overseas combat tours, his latest being in 2024 in Iraq and the Middle East. An Army War College graduate, he is now in the 33rd Class of the Ecole de Guerre, the French Joint Staff College.
Dr. Cara LaPointe (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '16)
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
Cara LaPointe is the Director of Analysis at Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET). She previously served as the Director of Strategic Assessment for the Department of the Navy (DON), where she conducted independent, data-driven assessments and led the Naval Strategic Studies Group. Prior to the DON, she worked at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab where she was the Co-Director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Assured Autonomy, leading multi-disciplinary research to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled autonomous systems are safe, secure, and ethical contributors to society. Earlier at the Georgetown University Beeck Center for Social Impact and Innovation, Cara drove the development of the Blockchain Ethical Design Framework. She spent over two decades as a naval officer serving in diverse operational, technical, and acquisition roles at sea and ashore. Cara holds a Ph.D. in oceanographic and mechanical engineering jointly from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, a Naval Engineer’s degree and an M.S. in ocean systems management from MIT, an M.Phil. in international development from the University of Oxford, and a B.S. in ocean engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy.
André Loesekrug-Pietri
JOINT EUROPEAN DISRUPTIVE INITIATIVE (JEDI)
André Loesekrug-Pietri, of French-German nationalities, has held leadership positions in private equity, industry, as an entrepreneur and in government (as former special adviser to the French Minister of Defense). He is currently Chairman & Scientific Director of the Joint European Disruptive Initiative (JEDI), precursor to a European advanced research projects agency (ARPA), bringing together more than 6000 leading scientists, startup founders and industrialists from 30 European countries to accelerate the continent’s leadership in disruptive innovations, in climate technologies, lifesciences, Space, Oceans and Digital. Graduate from HEC, Kennedy School and Institute for Higher National Defence Studies (IHEDN), he is a Young Global Leader from the World Economic Forum, European 40under40, reserve Colonel with the French Air & Space Force and sits on the Innovation Board of the Munich Security Conference and of the Advisory Board of the Saarland 3 billion Euro Transformation Fund.
DECEMBER 5th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
10:50-12:00
THE RAPID EVOLUTION OF AI – IMPACTS ON CYBER SECURITY
Georges Bossert SEKOIA.IO
Georges Bossert is the Co-founder and Chief Technology and Product Officer of Sekoia.io. An engineer by training and PhD graduate from CentraleSupélec, his research focused on applying machine learning and grammatical inference to cybersecurity with a strong focus on SOC and CTI activities. With over 15 years of experience, he has worked across the full spectrum of cybersecurity — from reverse engineering to leading technology and product strategy. A former reservist in the French Army’s cyber operations division, Georges now serves as a board member and lecturer at the University of Rennes. He is passionate about innovation, mentoring, and building resilient teams. He was named Innovator of the Year 2024 by Le Point magazine and a 2025 Cyberscoop 50 finalist.
Vivek Chilukuri (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '24) CENTER FOR A NEW AMERICAN SECURITY (CNAS)
Vivek Chilukuri is the senior fellow and program director of the Technology and National Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). His areas of focus include accelerating U.S. leadership in AI, quantum, and biotechnology, the U.S.-China technology competition in key emerging markets, securing critical digital infrastructure, and the U.S. Congress and technology policy. Before joining CNAS, Chilukuri served as a senior staff member for Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Chilukuri served as Bennet’s senior policy advisor for technology, deputy chief of staff, legislative director, and chief speechwriter. During his tenure on Capitol Hill, Chilukuri worked on legislation to strengthen America’s technology competitiveness, promote responsible governance for digital platforms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, and expand access to high-speed broadband through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Previously, Chilukuri served at the Department of State as a policy advisor to the undersecretary for civilian security, democracy, and human rights, and as a program officer on the Middle East and North Africa team at the National Democratic Institute. Chilukuri has published articles in Foreign Policy, TIME, Lawfare, and Nikkei Asia, and his analysis and commentary have been featured in The New York Times, Politico, CNN International, NPR, BBC News, Wired, CBC News, and Business Insider. Chilukuri received an MPP from the Harvard Kennedy School and a BA in international studies from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he graduated as a Robertson Scholar.
Raphaëlle d'Ornano (FR YOUNG LEADER '22)
D'ORNANO + CO.
Raphaëlle d’Ornano is CEO and founder of Decoding Discontinuity, a strategic advisory and investment platform focused on the structural impact of generative and agentic AI. Decoding Discontinuity develops proprietary frameworks for analyzing how companies are positioned to adapt to generative and agentic AI. Her Durable Growth Moat methodology assesses whether competitive advantages endure through generative and agentic AI discontinuities by examining structural fragility, control layer integrity, and economic resilience. These frameworks are applied by the financial and strategic advisory firm she founded, D’Ornano + Co., to help clients develop long-term value, ensuring durability through architectural resilience and financial adaptability. This approach guides institutional investors and executive teams through strategic repositioning as AI restructures value creation. Her pioneering work at the intersection of the architectural shifts catalyzed by AI and the financial sector has made her a leading voice on the economic and strategic aspects of generative and agentic AI. Her Decoding Discontinuity newsletter ranks among the top 80 technology newsletters on Substack. With over a decade of experience in complex financial analysis and strategic advisory across VC, growth, and PE, Raphaëlle bridges technological understanding with capital markets expertise. Her insights have informed more than $50B in transactions while helping leadership teams navigate unprecedented architectural change.
DECEMBER 5th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
Adam Hodge (U.S. YOUNG LEADER '19) BULLY PULPIT INTERNATIONAL
Adam Hodge, a Managing Director at Bully Pulpit International (BPI), is a veteran communications strategist with experience advising senior government officials, c-suite executives, political leaders, and advocacy organizations in high profile arenas across a range of sectors. Most recently, Adam was the Spokesperson for the National Security Council in the White House, leading the Biden-Harris Administration’s foreign policy communications operation through several global crises and international engagements. Adam also served as the Assistant United States Trade Representative for Public Affairs where he provided strategic counsel on policy, public engagement, and internal issues while leading the agency’s communications operation. Before returning to public service, Adam was the Senior Vice President for External Affairs at Ariel Investments. Prior to joining Ariel, Adam worked for SKDKnickerbocker and was the Communications Director at the Democratic National Committee, having previously held the role of Regional Press Secretary during President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign. Adam previously served in the Obama-Biden Administration as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the U.S. Treasury Department where he led the communications efforts for a range of domestic finance issues and received the Distinguished Service Award. Earlier in his career, Adam served as the Press Secretary for House Majority Whip James Clyburn, on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, and in the office of former Senator Christopher Dodd. He has appeared on CBS, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and international news outlets throughout his career. Originally from St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Adam is a graduate of Wesleyan University with a B.A. in government, concentrating on International Relations. He serves on the Board of the French-American Foundation and lives in Washington, DC, with his wife and two children.
DECEMBER 5th | SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS
13:20-14:00
INTERNATIONAL
CYBER COOPERATION
IN A CHANGING WORLD
General (ret.) Jean-Paul Paloméros
FRENCH-AMERICAN
FOUNDATION–FRANCE
After assuming a national high responsibility as the Chief of French Air Force (2009-2012), General Jean-Paul Paloméros led NATO’s military transformation (2012-2015). As NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) General Paloméros supported the 28 Allied Nations in preparing the future together in terms of military strategy, capability development, education, training and exercises. Ahead of Allied Command Transformation, he developed ambitious plans to increase NATO’s military efficiency and readiness through improved multinational cooperation, reenergized exercise policy and innovation. During his command tour, General Paloméros put a high priority on NATO force’s operational preparation, fostering the synergy between Allied Nations and the cooperation with Partner organizations, nations, with Industry, Science and technology, Universities and many other stakeholders. During more than 10 years within the French Air Force General Paloméros prepared and led major transformations to modernize the French Air Force’s capabilities and organization. General Paloméros took part in many operations as a fighter pilot, as a staff officer and as Commander in the Balkans and in Africa. In 2011, he was the head of the French Air Force which successfully took a major role in Operations over Libya to protect civilian populations. General Paloméros has logged more than 4000 flying hours on fighter jets and took part in 82 combat missions. He graduated from the French Air Force Academy in 1973, and was awarded the Curtis Prize within the 84th Royal Air Force Advanced Staff Course. General Jean-Paul Paloméros has been elevated to the rank of Great Officer in the “Légion d’Honneur”; he has been elevated recently to the highest rank of Great Cross in the National Order of Merit. He was also awarded the prestigious aeronautics’ medal, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal and many other foreign distinctions. General Paloméros is Vice Chairman of the French-American Foundation – France and President of the Steering Committee of its Cyber Security Program.
Kiersten Todt
MASTERCARD
Kiersten Todt is Senior Vice President of Cybersecurity Partnership & Engagement at Mastercard. In her role, she oversees Mastercard’s global engagements with government entities and partners, facilitating collaboration to address evolving cyber threats and promote secure innovation. Kiersten brings decades of leadership experience spanning government, the private sector and NGOs, offering strategic vision and operational expertise to support Mastercard’s expansion of its cyber, risk, fraud, identity and AI-enabled services. Most recently, she served as President of Wondros, a service-driven creative company that specializes in brand storytelling, strategic communications and building transformative campaigns. Prior to Wondros, Kiersten served as Chief of Staff of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and her government service also includes serving as Executive Director of President Obama’s Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity and as a professional staff member in the U.S. Senate, where she co-drafted the legislation to create the Department of Homeland Security. Kiersten also co-founded, with leading industry CEOs, the Cyber Readiness Institute in 2017, a non-profit focused on small business cybersecurity and supply chain resilience, and served as CEO of Liberty Group Ventures, LLC. Kiersten is a strategic advisor to venture capital firms and serves on boards of various technology companies focused on open-source software, memory safe language and neurodiversity. She frequently contributes to national television, radio, and print media outlets. Kiersten holds a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School and a Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs.
LEADERSHIP & STAFF
LEADERSHIP AND STAFF
FRENCH AMERICAN FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Jacques Aschenbroich
CHAIRMAN, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Jacques Aschenbroich, born in 1954, “Ingénieur du Corps des Mines”, has held several positions in the French administration and was in the cabinet of the Prime Minister in 1987 and 1988. He then had an industrial career in the Saint Gobain Group, where he managed subsidiaries in Brazil, in Germany and in the United States. He was president of the glass and high performance materials activities, and was Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Compagnie de Saint Gobain until December 2008. Member of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Valeo Group since March 2009, he has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from February 2016 to January 2022, and then, Chairman of the Board from January 2022 to December 2022. He is Chairman of the Board of Orange since May 2022.
Other:
Member of the Board of Directors and President of the governance committee of BNP Paribas Lead Independant Director of TotalEnergies
Co-President of the “Club Franco-Japonais” Chairman of French American Foundation - France Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Ecole des Mines ParisTech” until December 2023
Distinctions:
Officier de la Légion d’Honneur Officier dans l’Ordre National du Mérite
Amina Sabeur MANAGING DIRECTOR, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Born in Reims, France, Amina Sabeur has followed an atypical path combining her interests in diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and innovative projects with strong social impact. She began her professional career in Berlin at the German Institute for Security and International Affairs (SWP), then joined the French Embassy in Egypt for three years. In Cairo, she worked on cultural, scientific and archaeological cooperation issues, learned Arabic and deepened her knowledge of the region through numerous field trips. She subsequently joined the WHO (UNITAID) in Geneva in 2008 where she focused on innovative financing for health-related initiatives. Back in Paris, she fulfilled another dream: to become an entrepreneur. She founded, and managed one of the very first restaurants specialized in gourmet burgers for three years, around the original theme of Super Heroes in the heart of the 9th arrondissement of Paris. In June 2016, she joined the French-American Foundation - France, where she climbed the ranks to be appointed Managing Director in September 2021. Amina is quadrilingual (English, German, Arabic and French) and holds two Master’s degrees in International Relations and European Affairs, from Sciences Po Lille and from Sciences Po Paris and graduated from the Ecole de Guerre in 2020. She is a Senior Lecturer at Sciences Po Lille where she has been teaching International Relations for the past 15 years. Amina Sabeur is very focused on social justice issues, and is involved in impact initiatives around gender equality, equal opportunity, education, and access to employment. She supports several students or young professionals on a daily basis. She is Chair of the Board of INCO, a global organization that is working to create new environmentally sustainable and socially responsible economies in 50 countries. Amina was named Colonel (civilian reserve) for the French Space & Air Force in 2022.
LEADERSHIP AND STAFF
FRENCH AMERICAN FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Lucy Topaloff
PROGRAMS DIRECTOR, FRENCH-AMERICAN
FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Lucy Topaloff joined the French-American Foundation in April 2020, after several years in the non-profit world on both sides of the Atlantic. Lucy is Franco-American, and graduated from Yale University in 2013 with a degree in Political Science, and earning a Packard grant, moved to South Africa for Miracle Feet. This organization aims at eradicating clubfoot; Lucy later worked at their headquarters in North Carolina. In 2016, she moved to France to head the European branch of MakeSense, an organization that supports social entrepreneurs worldwide. Two years later, she was in New York, at the United Nations, to organize the UN Public Service Awards. From there she moved back to France to lead programs at Les Déterminés, a nonprofit that mentors entrepreneurs from the French banlieues. Today, Lucy is Program Director at the French-American Foundation–France, and co-organises the Young Leaders program, the Cybersecurity Conference, French-American Breakfasts and special events. In addition, she volunteers for Get Out The Vote initiatives and volunteers for other social justice NGOs.
Clara Leibundguth
PROGRAMS MANAGER, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–FRANCE
Clara Leibundguth is Program Manager of the French-American Foundation–France. She is French-Canadian. From 2020 to 2022, Clara was a parliamentary liaison officer for Christophe Castaner, former deputy of the French Parliament for the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, and former Minister of Interior under President Macron. Clara earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science and International Relations from Concordia University in Montreal in 2017. She then received her Masters in Politics of Conflict, Rights, and Justice from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London in 2019. Clara is also a graduate of the “Cycle Jeune” of the Institut des Hautes Etudes de Défense Nationale (IHEDN) in Geopolitics, Defense, and Security in Toulon in 2020. Clara has always been very active in philanthropic and volunteer programs. While in high school, from 2009 to 2011, Clara volunteered as a “Jeune Sapeur Pompier de Paris” where she was trained in military and first aid rescue. During university, she spent a gap year in Senegal with the Education Bureau of UNESCO Dakar. Alongside her university studies, Clara taught downhill skiing in Quebec and was Faculty Advisor for the National Model United Nations ESG-UQAM delegation in Montreal. She most recently completed a 28-hour 100-kilometer charitable walking challenge for Oxfam.
LEADERSHIP AND STAFF
FRENCH AMERICAN FOUNDATION–UNITED STATES
Jennifer Walden Weprin
CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–U.S.
Jennifer Walden Weprin, Co-Executive Director of the French-American Foundation has built her career leading institutional growth through fundraising, strategic communications, marketing, and innovation for notable organizations such as the Queens County Farm Museum, Louis Armstrong House Museum, Gold Coast Arts Center and Liberty Cable. She served as Director of Cultural Affairs & Tourism for Queens Borough President Melinda Katz as policy advisor representing 2.3 million New Yorkers. Early in her career, Jennifer cut her teeth in the emerging international telecommunications market in Prague, Czech Republic with World Phone Inc. Recent awards and leadership include 2023 Business Person of the Year, Queens Chamber of Commerce; 2023 Queens Power 100, City & State New York; and Advisory Board Member for CUNY Graduate School of Public Health, Wheatley Farms & Arts Center, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards’ Operation Urban Sustainability.
Margaret Fahey
CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–U.S.
Margaret Fahey is the Co-Executive Director of the French-American Foundation U.S. She leads initiatives to advance transatlantic dialogue and strengthen partnerships between French and American leaders. Since joining the Foundation in 2022, she has expanded its visibility and impact through strategic work in development, communications, and programming. Before joining the Foundation, Margaret lived in Marseille, France on a Fulbright scholarship, led programming for the American Swiss Foundation, and oversaw the translation process for clinical trial software at the technology company Clario. She holds a BA in International Political Economy and French from Fordham University.
Anne-Lise Sehi
PROGRAM MANAGER, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–U.S.
Anne-Lise Sehi is a Program Manager at the French-American Foundation, where she oversees the Cyber Security Conference, the Transatlantic Forum, and the Policy Breakfast series. Originally from Côte d’Ivoire, she brings a transatlantic perspective to her work, with expertise in diplomacy, immigration policy, and cross-cultural initiatives across West Africa, Europe, and the United States. Prior to joining the Foundation, Anne-Lise worked at the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in New York, gaining experience in international cultural exchange, strategic partnerships, and program management. She holds a Master’s degree in Media Management from The New School, a double Bachelor’s degree in Economics and International Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and a certificate in data analysis.
Lillianne Daniels PROGRAM MANAGER, FRENCH-AMERICAN FOUNDATION–U.S.
Lillianne Daniels is a Program Manager at the French-American Foundation, overseeing the Young Leaders program and the Translation Prize, as well as serving as the Foundation’s Board Liaison. Prior to joining the Foundation, Lillianne worked in cultural diplomacy at the Atlanta branch of Villa Albertine, the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the United States. There, she managed cross-cultural initiatives between the French-speaking world and the Southeastern U.S., including exchanges in arts & culture, education, urbanism, sustainability, and more. Lillianne holds an MS in Global Media & Cultures and a BS in International Affairs & Modern Languages, both from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and both with an emphasis in French, human rights, and Francophone Africa.
CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS
CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS
ALEXANDRE ALECSE
Harvard Law School Student
Harvard Law School
JOHN ALTENBURG Of Counsel
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
CHARLES BARRY
JOHN W. BASS
President
Global Data Risk LLC
MAJOR CHARLES-ARTHUR BILLOT
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
KARA BOMBACH
Shareholder
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
CORY BULLOCK
Senior Manager,
Global Government Affairs
Tenable
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
JULIEN CHAMBERON
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
CHRISTOPHE CHARPENTIER
Deputy Defence Attaché
French Embassy in the U.S.
ALICIA CHAVY
Associate Vice President
Beacon Global Strategies
DIDIER CHOIX
Chief Executive Officer
DDA & Company, LLC
RENAUD DERAISON
Consultant
Seclio
THEO DOLAN
Senior Advisor, Information Integrity
BBC Media Action
CBA PASCAL DRATSCHMIDT
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
CAMILLE STEWART GLOSTER
CEO and Principal CAS Strategies
ROBERT L. GORDON III
Senior Strategic Leader for AI and Digital Innovation
DDS, Inc
MICHAEL GORMLEY
President and CEO
Advanced Programs Inc. (API)
MOLLY CLAFLIN
2022 FAF Young Leader Fmr U.S. State Department
ANNE-BERENGERE DRIOLLE Liaison Officer
French COMCYBER
DT OLIVIER DE GRIMAUDET
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
EMILIE CLERET
Senior Advisor to the President of the French Defence University, Chief Academic Officer for English Studies, Director of Debate École Militaire
VANESSA AUDEMARD D'ALANCON
Strategic Communications Officer
Embassy of France in the U.S.
PATRICK J. DAVIS
Editor-in-Chief
The Cyber Defense Review
CARINE LALLEMAND DAWSON
Executive Editor
The Cyber Defense Review Army Cyber Institute
CC OLIVIER DUCLOS
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
ALEXANDRE HENON
Cyber Advisor
Ministry of the Armed Forces
THÉRÈSE FAVET
CFO
Sekoia.io
FRANÇOIS HOEHLINGER
Director France
Plug & Play Tech Center
ROMAIN FORESTIER
Scientific & Technology Project Lead
Joint European Disruptive Initiative (JEDI)
DELARAM KAHROBAEI
Professor of Computer Science and Mathematics, Doctoral Faculty of Mathematics
The City University of New York (QC, GC), NYU, University of York (UK)
BERNARD GAVGANI
Senior Advisor to the Group's
General Management
BNP Paribas
MIA DE KUIJPER Board Member FAF US
CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS
FLAVIEN LANET
Joint Strategic Affairs Attaché
French Embassy to the U.S.
THIÉBAUT MEYER
Cybersecurity Director Google Cloud
MICHAEL PITSINOS CEO & Founder Elysium Global Partners
MICHAEL SIEGEL Director - Cybersecurity
Sloan School of Management, MIT
IGOR LINKOV
Professor and Senior Executive
US Army and CMU
MARTIN MINVIELLE International Industrial Strategic Director Airbus
DAVID CHARLES RAK Executive Director A&M
ANNE TRICAUD Head of Corporate Security Office Airbus
ALEX-KEVIN LOEMBE
DevOps Engineer
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
PATRICE MORAND Defense Attaché
French Embassy in the U.S.
CELINA REALUYO Professor
National Defense University Perry Center
LEMUEL WILLIAMS
Senior Director, Technology Alliances Atos IT Solutions & Services, Inc.
KEVIN MADURA
Director, Advanced Technologies AlixPartners
CDT GRÉGOIRE MAFFRE
French Army Officer
École de Guerre
SERGE MATESCO Founder & CEO
Matesco & Partners
CHRISTOPHER MENDOZA
Product Security Technical Leader
Intel Corporation
NESRINE METHLOUTHI
Chief of Staff, Vice Chairman
BNP Paribas
BETH MUSUMECI
Global Leader of Cyber, Partner & Managing Director AlixPartners
LAUREN NANICHE
Associate Director for Defense Special Competitive Studies Project
HEDIEH NASHERI Professor & Director, Cybercriminology Kent State University
OLIVIER NAUTET Group CISO
BNP Paribas
LUDOVIC PERRET Professor EPITA
COL. JULIEN RESPLANDY Colonel French Embassy
ESTELLE YOUSSOUFFA Députée
Assemblée Nationale, France
PHILIPPE RIBIÈRE
Attaché for Emerging Tech Embassy of France
GHISLAIN DE SALINS
Global Leader, Cybersecurity World Bank
PAUL SALVAIRE
Deputy Consul General of France in San Francisco
Consul General of France in San Francisco
LEWIS SHEPHERD
Federal Chief Technology Officer Broadcom
