Kelly Fuller-Gordon, OPSU Alumna, Recognized as Top Entrepreneur and Innovator

Kelly Fuller-Gordon, Founder and Managing Director of RisX LLC., was recently recognized with a prestigious accolade in entrepreneurship and innovation in the Top 100 Entrepreneurs and Innovators Magazine. Kelly has become a trailblazer in cybersecurity, offering tailored solutions to small and medium-sized businesses to mitigate the risks posed by prevalent cyber threats, such as ransomware.

Kelly’s journey to success can be traced back to her time at OPSU. In 1994, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Administration in Computer Information Systems with the highest distinction of Summa Cum Laude. This remarkable achievement set the stage for her future accomplishments in cybersecurity.

“In 1991, I was approached by Diane Murphey, who was ahead of her time in identifying and seeing the vision for and importance of women in technology,” Kelly stated. “She advised me at the beginning of my first semester to pursue a double major in CIS & Accounting. I followed her advice and soon found that she was absolutely right! During my college years and early professional career, she continued to give me incredible advice.”

Kelly identified that being in the right place when Information Security, now called Cybersecurity, was born was the start of her fulfilling career. “This industry was first formed from the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) enacted by President George W. Bush in 2002. In early 2009, once the government mandated that their agencies be assessed to ensure they were following FISMA, I was part of the first assessment team for NASA,” said Kelly. “It was an amazing experience, as I traveled to each NASA site for two years to perform evaluations, and that’s when my appetite for cybersecurity and cyber-compliance came to life.”

Driven by her passion for protecting organizations from cyber threats, Kelly pursued several certifications to enhance her expertise. Holding certifications in CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), GLEG (GIAC Law of Data Security & Investigations), GPEN (GIAC Penetration Tester), and GLSC (GIAC Legal Issues in Information Security), she solidified her reputation as a highly qualified cybersecurity professional.

“We are now greatly expanding our business in support of the Department of Defense,” said Kelly. “Our Nation needs the best possible resources, solutions, and partners as we continue to find ways to secure our Nation in this ever-changing cyber threat landscape. We are excited to be at the forefront of this.”

University President, Dr. Julie Dinger commented, “Mrs. Fuller-Gordon is a trailblazer and serves as an inspiration to future generations, demonstrating the possibilities that can be achieved through education, determination, and a passion for success.”

The OPSU Association of Alumni and Friends is proud of Kelly Fuller-Gordon and her accomplishments in the industry of Information Technology, Risk Management, Cybersecurity and Compliance.