Purdue Global faculty member receives cybersecurity honor

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Elyson De La Cruz, chief information security officer (CISO) at Imagine Believe Realize and a faculty member in Purdue Global’s School of Business and Information Technology, was recently named a recipient of OnCon Icon’s Top 10 Information Security Professional Award. The global honor was presented virtually during OnCon’s 2026 conference.

“It was both very humbling and energizing,” De La Cruz said. “Cybersecurity is complex and often unseen, so this recognition is a meaningful reminder of our impact on the organizations and communities we serve. I am grateful to be included among professionals committed to strengthening security. To be honored by my peers reinforces my commitment to mentoring and supporting future leaders.”

At Purdue Global, De La Cruz teaches information technology and cybersecurity courses, specializing in cybersecurity leadership, governance, risk management, compliance, cloud security, zero trust, AI/machine learning and secure systems design. The experience he brings to the classroom aids in achieving his overall goal of helping students connect technical concepts to real-world challenges.

As Imagine Believe Realize’s CISO, De La Cruz leads cybersecurity strategy, governance, risk management, compliance and security operations for the Florida-based technology organization with employees across the U.S.

“Serving as a CISO keeps me closely connected to the real-world challenges facing organizations today, including cloud security, regulatory compliance, secure software development, incident response and the responsible use of AI,” he said. “This professional experience directly informs my teaching by enabling me to help students understand how cybersecurity principles apply in operational settings.”

De La Cruz continually shares industry challenges and dynamics with his students to help them gain insights into the technologies, operating environment and associated risks, as well as mentor and guide future cyber leaders and problem-solvers.