CxO Ascent's Journey Begins with the Founding of CISO Ascent
One idea. A community of cybersecurity leaders. The beginning of a journey built around people, America's National Parks, and good that lasts.
The CxO Ascent journey begins with a belief: the people who carry extraordinary responsibility deserve a place where they can simply be people.
With the founding of CISO Ascent, that belief has a starting point. We are building a nationwide community for cybersecurity executives, with meaningful relationships, time in America's National Parks, and giving back at the center.
From an idea to a community
The idea began with a conversation about what security leaders need beyond their daily work. A place to step away from the pressure, spend time outside, and connect with people who understand the responsibility of the role.
What if those relationships had time to develop through a shared experience? What if a trail, a meal, or an unhurried conversation could be the beginning of a friendship that lasted after everyone went home?
CISO Ascent is our commitment to making that vision real. It is the first chapter in a broader journey of bringing executive leaders together through shared experience and purpose.
People above profit
This is the principle we want our decisions to come back to. The value of the community is in the people who belong to it and the relationships they build.
We want members to feel welcome as themselves, with room to recharge and opportunities to contribute to one another's experience. Leadership may be what brings people together. Friendship is what we hope they take home.
Our measure of success is a community people want to be part of, where they can build trust and stay connected beyond a single gathering.
Why America's National Parks
The outdoors changes the pace. Walking together creates room for a conversation to continue. A new landscape gives people an experience to share before they ever discuss work.
America's National Parks and the surrounding landscapes offer a remarkable setting for those moments. They invite perspective, curiosity, and a little distance from the routine.
The destination matters because of what it makes possible: time together, a chance to recharge, and an appreciation for the places that welcome us.
Giving back belongs in the beginning
Our vision also includes care for the parks and local communities that make these experiences possible. We want to be thoughtful guests and build giving back into the way this organization grows.
Our first gathering is planned for Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains this October. As the region continues its recovery, we want to show up with care for its people, businesses, and landscape.
Relationships, the outdoors, and a commitment to contributing belong together in the community we are building.
Be part of the first chapter
CISO Ascent is the beginning of this journey. We invite cybersecurity leaders who share this vision to help shape what comes next.
Membership is completely free. Apply to become a CISO Ascent member, and once approved, you will receive a retreat invitation.
Learn more about our mission.
Connect. Collaborate. Recharge.
Photo credits
Landscape photograph from the CxO Ascent website collection.
