The Office of Information Security (OIS) at WashU has recently grown with the addition of Dana Waddell. As a cloud security architect, Dana will provide cloud security solutions, work with cloud-optimized architectures, contribute to WashU Architecture governance, and support the implementation of secure cloud platforms through cloud architecture documentation. Dana will use her knowledge and extensive experience to apply threat modeling methodology in response to security requirements and to collaborate with others in the WashU Community to develop secure architecture solutions.
Dana’s interest in Information Security was first piqued in 2001 when, as a customer service supervisor, she took part in a project that involved transitioning from a legacy mainframe system to SAP software. This was followed by 17 years of work in SAP application security before pivoting towards governance, risk, and compliance (GRC). Dana’s preference for a technical position eventually resulted in her accepting a role in Cloud Security in 2019. Aside from her work experience, Dana’s background includes a degree in Cybersecurity from Lindenwood University, with further credentials in AWS and Azure fundamental certifications.
Dana’s favorite parts of her job include working with advanced technology and having a hand in delivering security solutions for the cloud, especially given the role security architecture can have on WashU’s security. Dana explains that security work can be found in all parts of information technology (IT). Dana says it can be tough to fully comprehend all that information security entails without spending time working in the field. To help with learning about the many areas under cybersecurity, Dana recommends the YouTube channel, Tiny Technical Tutorials, for learning about the cloud.
When not working, Dana devotes time to musical activities, such as going to concerts or participating in music trivia. She also greatly enjoys participating in sporting events as a spectator. One thing that Dana highlights with respect to making her life better is her son remembering to take out the trash.