ISSA Rainier Chapter Scores Big at the 2025 ISSA International Awards!

TACOMA, WA — The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) has announced the recipients of its prestigious 2025 International Awards, celebrating excellence and leadership in the cybersecurity profession. Among this year’s top honorees are the ISSA Rainier Chapter, named Small Chapter of the Year, and its president, Parth Shah, recognized as Volunteer of the Year.

These honors will be officially presented at the ISSA 40th Anniversary Conference and Awards Gala, taking place later this year in Dallas, Texas.

🏆 Small Chapter of the Year 2025: ISSA Rainier Chapter

A Revitalized Force in the Pacific Northwest

The ISSA Rainier Chapter has emerged as one of the region’s most vibrant and fast-growing cybersecurity communities.

“The ISSA Rainier Chapter has demonstrated exceptional leadership in community-building, education, and industry collaboration,” said Jimmy Sanders, President of ISSA International. “Their commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity community makes them a standout chapter.”

Community-Led Growth and Impact

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Parth Shah, President of the ISSA Rainier Chapter. “It’s a reflection of the incredible passion and momentum of our members, partners, and sponsors who are united in their mission to strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem in the South Sound and beyond.”

“This award truly belongs to our entire community,” added Guruprasad Govindappa Venkatesha, Vice President of ISSA Rainier. “Our relaunch event underscored the demand for connection, mentorship, and leadership in cybersecurity, and we are just getting started.”

Recent Event Highlights Held at the Washington State History Museum:

This event drew professionals from sectors including technology, government, defence, finance, healthcare, academia, and others.

• Ralph Johnson, CISO of the State of Washington – remarks on the value of public-private partnerships.
• A keynote on the 2025 Threat Landscape by cybersecurity strategist Trey Blalock.
• Dr. Yan Bai, Associate Dean at UW Tacoma – provided insights on workforce development in cybersecurity.
• A Career Corner and sponsor expo connected professionals with hiring organizations.

🌟 Volunteer of the Year 2025: Parth Shah

Championing Collaboration and Leadership in Cybersecurity

Parth Shah’s vision and leadership have been pivotal in the Rainier Chapter’s resurgence. Under his direction, the chapter has launched innovative initiatives focused on mentorship, professional growth, cross-sector collaboration, and cybersecurity awareness.

“Cybersecurity is a global priority, and ISSA Rainier is creating a space where professionals can collaborate, learn, and lead,” said Shah. “This recognition is not just mine, it is a shared achievement with an incredible community behind it.”

Shah’s accomplishments include establishing strategic partnerships with institutions such as the University of Washington Tacoma and securing sponsorships that have enabled the chapter’s impactful programming. These efforts earned him the Volunteer of the Year honor from ISSA International.

“Parth’s leadership is a model for community-driven cybersecurity advocacy,” noted an ISSA Awards Committee Member. “His work exemplifies ISSA’s core values of collaboration, integrity, and knowledge-sharing.”

🏅 See the Full List of 2025 ISSA International Award Winners

🔗 ISSA 2025 Awards

About ISSA

The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) is a global organization dedicated to advancing the practice of information security. With over 150 chapters worldwide, ISSA fosters a collaborative environment that promotes education, career development, and cybersecurity leadership.