TSYS School alum Kaylee Dodson is building a career protecting what matters most in today’s digital world: data. As an information governance analyst at Aflac, she plays a key role in safeguarding sensitive information and helping her organization stay secure in an increasingly complex cyber landscape. Her path to this role was not traditional, but it was shaped by determination, mentorship, and the opportunities she found at CSU. When Dodson enrolled at CSU, she initially planned to study finance until she found a direction that felt right. That changed when she was introduced to the university’s Cybersecurity Nexus Program. With no prior background in technology, stepping into cybersecurity required a steep learning curve that she called “a complete culture shock, and my brain kind of melted at first.” Her path between high school in her native Fayetteville, Georgia, and college wasn’t a straight one. She took a break from school after starting her college studies to work a variety of jobs, searching for direction and purpose. However, after realizing those jobs did not provide a clear path forward, she decided to return to school.
At CSU, Dodson immersed herself in both academics and campus life, balancing two part-time jobs while staying deeply involved in student organizations. She served as president of the Women in Technology Club for five semesters, participated in the International Public Debate Association Debate Team, worked as an Honors College student assistant (pictured), and served as communications officer for the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA). She also served as a student ambassador for the Nexus program. Despite her growing involvement, the transition into a highly technical field was not without challenges. Dodson credits much of her success to the mentorship and support she received from faculty and staff, particularly within the Nexus program and the Honors College: “If I didn’t have that consistent support from faculty and staff, I don’t think I would be the same person I am today,” she said. She points to mentors like Armando Fernandez and Elke Brumbaugh, lecturers of the TSYS School, along with Honors College academic advisor Kristi Rehrauer—whom she describes as her “campus mom”—as instrumental in her growth. “They made themselves available and opened up their resources to me,” Dodson said. “It was continuous support throughout my entire time at CSU. I’ll forever be grateful for that.”
Professional development opportunities through the Cybersecurity Nexus Program also played a critical role in preparing her for the workforce. Through mock interviews and networking experiences, Dodson developed the confidence and communication skills needed to stand out, recalling that “those mock interviews 100% got me here. That experience changed everything for me.” She credits the connections she made and experience she gained with securing a co-op position around the time she graduated. As an information security analyst with Synovus Bank (now Pinnacle Financial Partners), she gained hands-on experience in cybersecurity, which helped launch her career. Now at Aflac, Dodson works in the Fortune 200 company’s Global Security Department, helping to manage and protect its data. Her work is essential to maintaining the company’s digital integrity and preventing vulnerabilities. “We look at data and determine if it’s sensitive, who owns it, and how long we need to keep it,” she said. “We make sure it’s protected and handled properly so it stays within regulations. You don’t have a company if you don’t have data.” Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Dodson is passionate about increasing awareness around cybersecurity, especially for those who may not have been exposed to it. “People don’t want to talk about cyber safety, but they also don’t get taught how important it is,” she said, noting that she often brings her professional passion into her personal life by helping family members better understand online risks. “I need people I care about to think, ‘Could this be a scam?’” For her family and friends, she also emphasizes the importance of balance in a fast-paced, technology-driven field and life from behind the screen: “Touch grass. Go outside. Experience something outside of a computer.” From academic and professional uncertainty to a thriving career in cybersecurity, Dodson’s story highlights the power of persistence, mentorship, and finding the right path. “I’m very glad with where I am,” she said. “The blood, sweat and tears with Nexus helped me get here.” Looking ahead, Dodson hopes to continue working at the intersection of technology and human connection. For students considering a similar path, her message is simple: “If I can do it, you can do it.” She hopes future students will continue to benefit from the same opportunities that shaped her journey.
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