Close

Q&A: Alison Hart follows passion for a challenge into the world of cybersecurity

April 17, 2019

Auburndale, Florida native Alison Hart ’19 has always had a passion for cybersecurity. Hart, who is majoring in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity, is a lifelong learner who has excelled at Florida Polytechnic University as a programing teaching assistant, Presidential Ambassador, and is currently working as an information technology contractor at Badcock Home Furniture & More. She’s already putting her skills to good use outside of the classroom. Hart was recently part of a Florida Poly team that took first place in a statewide 24-hour hackathon.

 

What was your favorite class at Florida Poly?

Definitely [Computer] Programming 2. That class made me realize how much can be learned by trying, failing, and continuing to try until there’s a breakthrough.

 

Choose three words to describe Florida Poly.

Challenging, imaginative, and opportunity.

 

What is your favorite thing to do on weekends?

Going to Born & Bread Bakehouse in downtown Lakeland! The Boston Cream cruffin is incredible.

 

What TV show are you currently binge-watching?

I just finished watching “Designated Survivor,” and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a little bit of drama alongside a refreshing view into modern government.

 

What leader do you admire the most in the high-tech world and why?

Elon Musk. His passion for innovation, environmental conservation, and exploration inspires me to push myself and to never be intimidated of the unknown.

 

Editor’s Note: This story is one of a series of Q&As with some of Florida Poly’s class of 2019 graduates.

Contact:
Lydia Guzman
Assistant Director of Communications
863-874-8450

Session Details

This session will demonstrate that practical risk management is for everyone, regardless of a formal program. Attendees will learn actionable and simple strategies that are easy to implement, enabling them to start immediately by focusing on their top risks to build greater operational resilience and ensure the sustained success of their auxiliary enterprises.

Presenter Profile

Michelle Powell serves as the pioneering Risk Manager at Florida Polytechnic University, the state’s sole 100% STEM-dedicated institution. Having been with the university for nearly 11 years, Michelle transitioned from a leadership role in Admissions in October 2023 to establish and evolve the risk management function from the ground up. In this solo capacity, Michelle builds robust frameworks for our dynamic, young university, overseeing our insurance portfolio, consulting on third-party and event risks, and developing critical campus-wide training programs. Michelle has obtained the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) Enterprise Risk Management certificate and the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) and Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) designations. Her distinct background in mathematics and engineering, combined with extensive higher education leadership, brings an analytical and strategic approach enhancing the institution’s resilience.