SIA RISE Scholarships
Young Professionals: What would you do with AN EXTRA $3,000?
The Security Industry Association (SIA) created the RISE scholarship program to support the education and career development goals of young security professionals just like you.
The RISE scholarship program is open to SIA student members and RISE members who are employees of SIA member companies. The scholarship is intended to expand recipients' professional knowledge in the areas of business, human resources, information technology, marketing/sales, project management, security engineering and risk management.
Tax-deductible donations can be made through the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) and earmarked for the RISE Scholarship.
Through this scholarship program, selected candidates will receive awards for $3,000 each. Scholarship funds can be used toward continuing education, student loan repayment and professional development programs such as training and certifications. This scholarship is a win-win for both you as the applicant and for your employer. (Not part of RISE yet? Learn more here.)
Applications for the RISE Scholarship are now closed; stay tuned for details on next year's scholarship!
This Year's Scholarship Awardees:
(View the full press release here.)
Zachary Allen, Account Executive, Convergint Technologies
Zachary Allen is a dedicated account executive at Convergint, focusing on securing the state, local, education and defense market in Arizona. After graduating from the University of Arizona in 2023, Allen began his career as part of the Convergint Development Program, where he quickly learned technical and soft skills necessary to excel in the account executive position. He considers himself a lifetime learner with a passion for ethics, integrity and pursuit of knowledge. This scholarship will allow Allen to continue to learn the industry, emerging technologies and best practices for business development. In addition to a passion for his work with Convergint, he is passionate about travel, snowboarding, rock climbing and his nonprofit initiatives.
Brianna Bonfondeo, Account Manager, Traka, ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions
Brianna Bonfondeo is passionate about empowering the next generation of women in the industry and is dedicated to breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity. With a strong belief in mentorship, she aims to inspire young women to pursue their career aspirations fearlessly. When she is not advocating for change, you can find Bonfondeo lost in a book, exploring new worlds and ideas.
Joi Brown, Control Center Specialist, Rapid Response Monitoring Services
Joi Brown, originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, holds a Bachelor of Science in strategic communication from Northern Arizona University. Her schooling has furthered her knowledge of communication and online communications between herself and others. Brown's experience in communication has helped lead in more critical thinking and problem solving roles. She graduated school in 2019 and was as ready as ever to advance her career. All Brown's work has provided her with the expertise and opportunity to implement the strategic skills she has learned, and she has always been a quick learner for software and programs, including creative design platforms. She has been a control center specialist with Rapid Response Monitoring since 2023 and was introduced and welcomed to the security industry by attending ISC East in April 2024, becoming enamored by all of the different facets of physical and cybersecurity, and from there her interest has only progressed. Brown communicates now to help others protect their life and property and every day learns more ways to keep herself and others protected through cybersecurity.
Brenda Constantin, Account Executive, 3Sixty Integrated, a Division of the Cook & Boardman Group
Based in San Antonio, Texas, Brenda Constantin is an accomplished account executive at 3Sixty Integrated. She began her journey in the security industry as a marketing intern at 3Sixty while a junior at Trinity University and has since steadily advanced her career. With over six years in the industry, Constantin leverages her marketing expertise and her degree in business administration with a focus on marketing and management to propel her success in sales. Specializing in tailored security solutions for educational and enterprise organizations, she is enthusiastic and driven, bringing a fresh perspective to a traditionally male-dominated industry. Constantin currently serves as secretary of the ASIS San Antonio, Texas, chapter and is active in various industry organizations, demonstrating her commitment to community safety and professional mentorship. A proud mom to a one-year-old boy, Constantin is dedicated to creating safer environments, empowering women and mentoring emerging talent in her field.
Jonathan Crabtree, Channel Sales Specialist, Genetec
Jonathan Crabtree is a dedicated channel sales specialist at Genetec, based in Indianapolis, Indiana. With a strong background in sales and a passion for technology, he excels in building and maintaining relationships with channel partners. Crabtree’s role involves providing exceptional support and ensuring that partners have the resources they need to succeed, and his expertise and commitment make him a valuable asset to the Genetec team. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and is an avid soccer fan.
Taylor Davenport, HR Business Partner, i-PRO Americas
Taylor Davenport is an HR business partner at i-PRO Americas, bringing four years of experience in the security industry. She is dedicated to fostering a positive workplace environment and supporting the organizational goals of i-PRO Americas through strategic HR initiatives and partnerships
Mason Fanning, End User Specialist, ASSA ABLOY
Mason Fanning is the end user specialist covering West Florida at ASSA ABLOY. He recently graduated from the University of South Carolina and looks forward to a long career in the security industry.
Natalie Fetsko, Customer Success Manager, dormakaba
As a customer success manager with a background of over 10 years in hospitality, Natalie Fetsko brings a deep commitment to service and relationship-building into the security industry. Her role is focused on acting as a strategic business advisor, connecting internal teams to deliver seamless experiences for customers and ensuring a collaborative approach. Fetsko values trust, growth and making a positive impact both professionally and personally. Outside of work, she is passionate about cooking, traveling and creating meaningful connections in all areas of life.
Aishwarya Gandhe, Senior Channel Marketing Coordinator, North America, Genetec
Aishwarya Gandhe is a dedicated marketing professional in the security industry, currently serving as a senior channel marketing coordinator at Genetec, where she focuses on channel growth and strategic partner engagement across the Americas. She holds a master’s degree in entertainment, media and advertising from the University of Mumbai and advanced certifications in digital media marketing and sports and events marketing from George Brown College. Gandhe’s background includes roles in account management, social media and co-marketing, where she gained experience in managing campaigns, CRM tools and client communication. Through her work at Genetec, she has contributed to impactful product launches, event coordination and digital initiatives. Looking forward, Gandhe aims to deepen her expertise in data-driven marketing strategies and expand her impact by fostering more robust, tech-integrated solutions in security marketing. Her goal is to advance her knowledge in the security sector, creating more targeted and responsive marketing approaches that adapt to industry trends.
Anish Chandra Jalla, Software Developer II, Genetec
Anish Chandra Jalla is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software developer with a master’s degree in engineering, specializing in enterprise software solutions. He has experience in developing and optimizing integrated systems that streamline business operations and a solid understanding of how ERP systems enhance efficiency, productivity and decision making for organizations. With a problem-solving mindset and analytical approach, Jalla is committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and best practices to improve ERP systems and meet evolving business needs. He thrives in collaborative environments, working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions that align with partner expectations.
Kajaanei Kajenthiran, Security Guard, City of Toronto, Canada
Kajaanei Kajenthiran is an up-and-coming security professional with the city of Toronto, Canada, with two years of experience. As a member of the SIA RISE community, she has benefited from mentorship and its resources, and she is honored to be a recipient of the SIA RISE Scholarship, which she plans to use to purse her J.D. Kajenthiran is excited to apply this in-depth knowledge of the law to the security industry. Outside of work, she is a full time mom and has two businesses – an at-home lash studio and a pickup soccer club. Kajenthiran also enjoys building relationships and is dedicated to growth in all aspects of her life.
Will Knehr, Senior Manager of Information Assurance and Data Privacy, i-PRO Americas
Will Knehr is the senior manager of information security and data privacy at i-PRO Americas. He is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive cyber defense program for i-PRO and determining applicable laws and standards and industry best practices for the company’s information security controls, cybersecurity, data privacy and cloud services at the federal, state and municipal levels, as well as within the private sector. Knehr also consults on i-PRO’s product development to ensure all products and solutions meet market security demands. He began his career in information operations as a cryptologist for the U.S. Navy in 2004, where he conducted cyber defense missions for the National Security Agency (NSA), the Cyber Mission Force, the U.S. Department of the Navy, the U.S. Department of Defense and the Defense Information Security Agency (DISA), where he helped to defend, accredit, certify and provide digital forensics and incident response on the nation’s most sensitive and secure networks. Knehr also worked for the aerospace and defense technology company Northrop Grumman, supporting special projects for the NSA and DISA, building virtualized environments for malware analysis and managing their cybersecurity program and data brokering. He holds a B.S. in information technology and security concentration, an M.S. in information assurance and cybersecurity and an MBA in IT management, along with several industry-leading certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Systems Security Professional and SIA's Security Industry Cybersecurity Certification.
Ryan Knoll, Account Executive, Pro-Tec Design
For over 14 years, Ryan Knoll has dedicated his career to helping others by tackling complex safety and security challenges. From the front lines to strategic consulting, he's worn various hats, each contributing to his broad understanding of security dynamics, technology and solutions. Knoll is an account executive at Pro-Tec Design, a role that allows him to focus on helping others understand, design and implement physical security solutions tailored to their specific needs and environment. Heholds multiple security industry certifications covering video surveillance, electronic access control, threat management and cybersecurity. He is also an active member of SIA RISE and ASIS International and is a co-chair of the local Minnesota ASIS chapter.
Chandni Lalwani, DevOps Engineer, HID Global
Chandni Lalwani is a DevOps engineer with a background in business administration, committed to embedding robust security within fast-evolving IT landscapes. With expertise in automation, system optimization and secure infrastructure, she focuses on positioning security as a driver of innovation and progress in today’s digital world. Lalwani’s goal is to lead meaningful change by bridging IT and security, advancing solutions that balance strategic business goals with resilient security. Passionate about evolving enterprise security, she aims to shape technologies that empower both growth and digital trust.
Vincent Malenfer-Henard, Security Analyst, Genetec
Vincent Malenfer-Henard started his career in the security industry four years ago at Genetec, working as a cybersecurity analyst with a focus on cloud and identity. His work now revolves around automation and monitoring in the cloud, as well as providing support on security issues. A firm believer in teamwork and continuous improvement, Malenfer-Henard is always looking to help and find creative solutions by exploring new domains. In line with this, he is honored to be selected for the SIA RISE Scholarship, to expand his knowledge on software security and development to better assist the company.
Josh Martin, Mechanical Engineer II, dormakaba
Josh Martin joined dormakaba in 2021 as a mechanical engineer for the New Product Introduction team. Leveraging his six years of engineering experience, he has created new access hardware solutions that align with customer and industry needs, driven innovation by implementing a series of workshops that focused on enhancing growth and functionality on key product lines and launched new products into the market. Martin holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology from Purdue University at Indianapolis, and is honored to be a recipient of the SIA RISE Scholarship. This scholarship presents him with the opportunity to invest into additional professional development programs, particularly in the business acumen field, in order further deliver excellence within the security industry.
Bryn Menzel, Director of Strategic Accounts and Marketing, 3millID Corporation
Bryn Menzel is a strategic account manager at 3millID Corporation, with six years of professional experience in the security industry. As an active member of the SIA RISE community, she has greatly benefited from the mentorship and educational opportunities provided by the program, and she is honored to be a recipient of the SIA RISE scholarship, which she plans to use to pursue her MBA at Southern Methodist University. Menzel is excited to apply the knowledge gained through her MBA to her role in the security industry. Outside of work, you can find her at the nearest library or exploring new restaurants in Dallas, Texas. Menzel enjoys Pilates, traveling and prioritizing nutrition and wellness. She is passionate about building relationships and is dedicated to continuous learning, growth and improvement in both her personal and professional life.
Gabriella Moraniec, Contracts Manager, GSA Schedules
As a contracts manager with GSA Schedules, Inc., Gabriella Moraniec helps provides expertise and support services for General Services Administration contract acquisition, maintenance and management with a primary focus on security related fields. After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, she worked as a linguistics analyst and engineering technician with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, where she amassed federal experience in research and government contracting. Transitioning into roles as resource specialist and educator, Moraniec facilitated instructional support, built professional training programs, and conducted both web-based and in-person professional development initiatives. With such a versatile background, she is adept at adapting to various situations and challenges, and over time she has learned to leverage technology as a powerful tool in accomplishing tasks efficiently and effectively, streamlining processes, enhancing communication or optimizing workflows.
Taylor Nevells, Digital Marketing and Content Sepcialist, Wavelynx
Taylor Nevells is Wavelynx’s digital marketing and content specialist. She is originally from the East Coast but has spent the past eight years enjoying life in Colorado. Nevells has always had an artistic side and learned to channel that creativity into purposeful design during her time at the University of Colorado Boulder. She loves that marketing combines creativity and analytics in a way that drives results. When she’s not working, you can find Nevells on the volleyball court, practicing aerial yoga or exploring Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. This scholarship will allow her to further her UX/UI design skills, elevating digital user experiences.
Juan Pelayo, Technical Support Supervisor, i-PRO Americas
Juan Pelayo is a seasoned technical support supervisor at i-PRO Americas, bringing expertise in surveillance and security technology. With a strong background in configuring and troubleshooting CCTV systems, access control and network solutions, Pelayo excels in both technical and customer-facing roles. His prior roles include network and system administration and IT support, equipping him with comprehensive skills in database management, hardware and software troubleshooting. Certified in CCNA and Network+, Pelayo is committed to continuous learning in cloud computing and cybersecurity to support evolving industry demands.
Itzel Portillo, Marketing Specialist, Allegion
Itzel Portillo is a marketing specialist at Allegion, where she drives brand visibility through strategic social media and content initiatives. A dedicated professional and MBA student, she is committed to advancing her expertise in marketing and delivering impactful results.
Joel Searle, Program Manager, ZBeta
Joel Searle is the physical security technology projects program manager and consultant for ZBeta’s professional managed services engagement with Amazon Corporate Security. He started in the security industry with eight years in guard force and has spent the last seven years in both project and program management, with some additional time spent in security design and consulting. Searle seeks to guide his team towards a hunger for learning, self-improvement and excellence in communication. Receiving a SIA RISE Scholarship is an incredible honor, and he plans to use it to pursue further professional development, additional certification and increase his breadth of experience in this field. Outside of work, Searle enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids exploring the western North Carolina mountains.
Maria Sturges, Project Coordinator and Administrator, Northland Controls
Maria Sturges graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2021 with a degree in business management. For the past three years, she has begun her journey in the security industry at Northland Controls as a project coordinator.
Julie Trinh, SDK Specialist, Genetec
Julie Trinh graduated with a software engineering degree and started working at Genetec after having interned there. She is a passionate professional in the security industry, focused on making a meaningful impact through innovative technologies. Julie's passion for continuous learning fuels her drive to create impactful solutions. Eager to make a lasting impact, Trinh looks forward to shaping the future of security with determination and enthusiasm. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, climbing and playing with her dog.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Support the RISE Scholarship!
SIA's RISE Scholarship depends on the generous support from companies like yours. Help students and young professionals learn and grow their skills by making a tax-deductible donation through FAST earmarked for the RISE Scholarship.
SCHOLARSHIP BASICS
- $3,000 scholarships for continuing education, professional development, and student loan repayment.
- Open to SIA student members and RISE members who are employees of SIA member companies worldwide.
How the Scholarship Can Be Used
Recipients may choose to apply the scholarship to any of the following courses or programs:
- SIA program offerings (e.g., Security Project Management training seminars, Securing New Ground conference, SIA GovSummit conference)
- Courses/programs/events related to information technology (IT), physical security, or cybersecurity
- Relevant courses or professional development programs offered by reputable associations, colleges, universities and private education firms related to your role and career in the security industry.
- Repayment of student loans
Official Rules and Requirements
A complete application, including all necessary supporting documentation (as described below), must be submitted by the deadline. All application packets will be submitted electronically, without exception. Applications not submitted by the application deadline will not be considered; there will be no exceptions made to this requirement.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Applicants must meet all requirements set forth below to be considered eligible as a scholarship recipient.
- Each applicant must be either 1) a SIA student member or 2) a RISE program member and an employee of a SIA member company. (Not a RISE member yet? Start by visiting our RISE information page or emailing Katie Greatti. Unsure if your employer is a SIA member? Check our member directory or contact membership@securityindustry.org.)
- Each applicant must have at least 1 year of professional experience in the security industry.
- Each applicant must be a full-time employee of a SIA member company or be a SIA student member; have worked for the employer a minimum of six months at the time of the deadline and be in good standing within the employer organization.
- Applicants must submit a complete, signed application, together with all supporting documentation, including essays and 1-2 references, by the deadline. The completion of the application form does not create an obligation on the part of SIA to award a scholarship to the applicant.
- Current officers, directors and key employees of SIA and the immediate families of SIA officers, directors and key employees are not eligible to receive scholarships under the program.
Application Process
Each applicant must complete the application and include supporting documentation as follows:
- The application form, completed with accurate and up-to-date information.
- An essay answering the following questions:
- Please write a personal statement on why you chose to apply for the RISE scholarship, how the money earned would be utilized, and how this scholarship will make a lasting impact on the future of your career in the security industry? (250 words max)
- How can businesses develop a more inclusive culture to draw and keep diverse talent? (250 words max)
- What is an area of improvement for the security industry and what sort of impact do you hope to make in the next 5-10 years? (250 words max)
- What has made the biggest impact on your experience in the security industry thus far and how has that helped shape your professional career? (250 words max)
- If you were to host a podcast, who would be your first guest and what would you talk about? (250 words max)
- At least one professional reference (preferably two). Please provide the name, title, email address, and phone number for each reference.
Scholarship Selection Committee
The Scholarship Selection Committee (the “Committee”) will consist of volunteers from the SIA RISE committee. Committee members are volunteers and perform their duties without compensation, financial or otherwise. If the Committee is reviewing the application of an applicant who is an employee of the Committee member’s company, or if the Committee member is otherwise conflicted with respect to the applicant, the Committee member shall recuse him or herself from all deliberation and voting regarding the applicant’s application.
Selection Process
- Only those applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and submit their completed applications and supporting documentation on or before the deadline (“qualified applications”) will be considered in the selection process.
- It is the applicant’s responsibility to submit a complete and signed application, along with all the supporting documentation, which must be received on or before the deadline. The Committee accepts no responsibility for incomplete applications, applications not in proper form, lost applications or any other submission not in compliance with these requirements or the instructions provided with the application.
- The Committee shall review each application and award points based on the applicant grading criteria set forth below. As noted above, a committee member with a conflict with respect to any applicant shall not participate in the review or grading of that applicant’s application and supporting materials.
- The scholarship award will be based on the Committee’s scores of the overall quality of the application and the scholarship essays. The five applications receiving the highest scores shall be awarded scholarships. In the case of a tie, the SIA CEO will make the final decision.
- Scholarship selection shall be made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other category protected by federal, state or local law. Conversely, an applicant will not be selected solely based on one or more of the categories identified above.
- The decision of the Committee is final and not subject to review.
Applicant Grading Criteria
The following applicant grading criteria will be followed by members of the Committee in reviewing applications and determining those applicants that will be granted scholarships:
| Fulfilled all eligibility requirements | Up to 5 points |
| References | Up to 20 points |
| Essays | Up to 75 points (Each question is worth 15 points) |
| Up to 100 points |
Award Redemption
Each recipient must enroll in the approved course within 12 months of being awarded the scholarship and coordinate with SIA for course fee payment. SIA will reimburse awardees for the course/program enrollment up to the $3,000 value of the scholarship. If the course/program costs more than $3,000, the recipient is responsible for the balance. If the cost of the course/program is less than the $3,000 scholarship award, the recipient will have a credit to use on related professional development within a 12-month period.
The scholarship money covers course entry fees or program attendance fees but will not cover study materials, travel costs or any other items related to the course.
DONOR PROGRAM
- Funding of the scholarship program is achieved through contributions by individual members of SIA and member corporate support.
- Unless specifically designated by a donor, contributions will be made toward the general scholarship fund.
Tax Deductibility Status
The SIA RISE Scholarship is made possible with the generous support of our donors. Your donation to FAST, earmarked for the RISE Scholarship, is tax deductible.
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