An introduction to the first non-founder President of SDSUG and the leadership principles that guide the organization’s direction and continuity.
SDSUG President Hunter Storm’s Acceptance Letter, February 2026
Dear SDSUG Members,
I’d like to share a brief leadership update. I am honored to accept the role of President of SDSUG and will be working closely with our Founder, Leo J. Hauguel, to ensure continuity and a smooth transition. The organization’s mission, values, and direction remain unchanged.
Honoring the Legacy of SDSUG and Its Founder
For 25 years, Leo J. Hauguel has brought cybersecurity education and networking opportunities to the Valley of the Sun, establishing a strong and enduring community. Founded on September 25, 2001, SDSUG is the first cybersecurity institution in Arizona. Under Leo’s leadership, it has grown into one of the largest cybersecurity communities globally, with over 950 members. Consistency is part of what has made SDSUG a trusted space for decades.
What Will Stay the Same
A Community Built on Connection
I’ve known Leo for many years, and I’ve known many of you for just as long — in some cases even longer. That shared history is part of what makes this transition feel natural. SDSUG has always thrived on curiosity, generosity, and a willingness to support one another.
Trust and Continuity
When Leo asked me to step into this role, I took it as a profound vote of trust and continuity. My goal is to honor where we came from, strengthen what we have, and ensure this community remains a place where people at every level feel welcome to learn, contribute, and grow.
Preserving History, Preparing for the Future
This is not a moment for disruption. What has been built here works, and the character of the group is worth preserving. There are no plans for radical changes, increased noise, or shifts that would alter the culture or member experience. Any adjustments will be practical, measured, and in service of clarity and effectiveness — never change for its own sake.
In keeping with Leo’s legacy, I will be putting in place the structures that ensure SDSUG continues long after any one of us, with clear succession and sustainable governance.
Member Privacy, Contact Information, and Connection
SDSUG will continue operating under Leo’s long-standing principles: member privacy is absolute, and the member list is never shared. Any engagement between members and sponsors occurs only by mutual choice. Our culture remains practitioner-first and grounded in trust. SDSUG will continue providing opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another in a professional, yet informal, environment.
Images, Photography, and Videos
Many of our members work in sensitive roles, and we honor that. Because modern image-matching eliminates practical anonymity, SDSUG does not publish event or attendee photos. This allows everyone who wants to attend to participate at their own comfort level while maintaining privacy.
Photography and videos at SDSUG events will remain optional and consensual. Photos are taken only with the explicit agreement of those involved. Images will not be published on the SDSUG website without consent.
Platform-Agnostic and Vendor-Neutral
SDSUG will continue to operate in a neutral, non‑product, and non-vendor-centric manner. Sponsorships, where applicable, will not influence content or direction. Our focus remains on supporting members through learning, professional connection, and opportunities for growth, including conferences and collaborative initiatives.
SDSUG Continuity | Announcing the New Vice President (VP)
I’m very pleased to share that Debbie Christofferson will be joining SDSUG as Vice President.
Many of you already know Debbie Christofferson, and some may remember her prior involvement with SDSUG. She brings a wealth of knowledge about how professional security communities are formed, sustained, and—most importantly—run well. Not just successfully, but thoughtfully.
While I’m comfortable running organizations and handling the mechanics, I’m equally committed to not placing unnecessary burden on volunteers. That balance matters. Debbie Christofferson understands this deeply. She knows how to build structure that supports people rather than exhausting them, and how to keep a group healthy over the long term without losing its character.
She also brings extensive leadership experience from the broader cybersecurity community, including serving four years as ISSA Phoenix Chapter Board President, as well as a Board Member for International ISSA, and other security groups. Her perspective, judgment, and collaborative style make her an ideal partner as we continue to honor Leo J. Hauguel’s legacy and support the community he built.
On a personal note, I’m genuinely looking forward to working with others again. Much of my recent work has required operating independently, and this role is an opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, and build something meaningful together—exactly the way SDSUG has always functioned at its best.
Together, we are focused on continuity, community, and sustainability. This is not about changing what works, but about ensuring it continues to work—now and into the future.
Please join me in welcoming Debbie Christofferson to her new role.
What Is New | Innovation and Future-Proofing
SDSUG Sponsorship and Our Path Forward
I am pleased to share that SDSUG has secured a new sponsor, ISARA. This is a technology organization whose leadership and mission align with the future of cybersecurity and quantum computing. Their commitment to innovation, integrity, and community development reflects the values that have guided this group since its founding. This partnership is not about products or sales — it is about supporting the practitioners who safeguard our organizations and our world.
Their work in post-quantum cryptography (PQC), crypto agility, crypto‑modernization, quantum security, and human-centric design represents the direction our industry is moving, and their willingness to invest in the security community speaks to their character as leaders.
SDSUG will be the first group they have ever sponsored, and we are grateful for their support as we continue building a space where professionals at every level can learn, collaborate, and grow.
SDSUG Website
As part of this transition, the SDSUG website has been updated with a modernized structure, refreshed branding, and improved accessibility. These enhancements support our commitment to clarity, continuity, and a strong member experience. Keep an eye out for additional updates as we collaborate to bring you a refreshed digital experience and secure social opportunities for engagement.
Welcoming Your Input | Continued Camaraderie and Collaboration
Member input has always shaped this group, and that will continue. Any evolution of SDSUG will be thoughtful, transparent, and aligned with our shared purpose. I value your participation and look forward to continuing this work together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Hunter Storm, CISO, Advisory Board Member, SOC Black Ops Team, Systems Architect, Originator of Human-Layer Security
President, SDSUG ®
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunterstorm/
SDSUG LinkedIn Group: AZSDSUG
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Last updated: April 2026