CIT Student Wins Scholarship, Attends Conference

7.15.22

Computer Information Technology A.A.S., Cyber Defense student Sasha Mullins Lassiter has been gaining new skills and networking at Wireshark SharkFest 2022 in Kansas City.  

Wireshark is the most used application for digital packet capture to be used for threat hunting (malware) analysis, according to Associate Professor Richard McKinney. 

To encourage diverse experiences, ideas, and backgrounds in the Wireshark Community, the Wireshark Foundation ​along with Betty DuBois of Packet Detectives created and funded two scholarships specifically for women. Ross Bagurdes of Bagurdes Technology is also a sponsor. 

Sasha applied for and was awarded one of two national scholarships, with a value of more than $3,500, to attend Sharkfest and two pre-conference classes led by prominent Cybersecurity experts.  ​​

Since being selected, she has been floating on a “humble cloud of gratitude as a recipient of the Women in Wireshark scholarship.” 

Mullins Lassiter said of Professor McKinney that his “encouragement inspires me to chase the opportunities” and has been a big advocate as she pursues a career in Cybersecurity.

Sasha is a member of Women in Technology of Tennessee (WiTT), ISSA Middle Tennessee, and Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS).  

Additionally, she is working to get a CompTia Security+ Certification this summer. With this certification, Sasha aims to enter the workforce before graduation.  

Mullins Lassiter with Wireshark instructor Betty DuBois from Packet Detectives
Mullins Lassiter with Wireshark instructor Betty DuBois from Packet Detectives.

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