Shadows and Circuits: The Next Generation of Intelligence and Technology - Student-Led Conference

The International Security Experience (ISE) is a four-day, multi-event conference designed to immerse students in the evolving landscape of national and global security. Taking place April 14–17, 2026, at the Marshall Student Center on the USF Tampa Campus, ISE brings together students, scholars, and practitioners for a dynamic experience that bridges theory and practice.

Day 2: Shadows and Circuits – FSP Student Conference
Organized by the Future Strategist Program at USF and supported by GNSI, this student-led conference builds upon the themes introduced on Day One. It provides emerging leaders the opportunity to organize, plan, and conduct their own conference while offering their perspectives on pressing security challenges. The day concludes with the official launch of the Undergraduate Strategy Competition and the release of the competition scenario brief.

This event is built by students, for students who are serious about shaping the future of national security. This is your chance to engage directly with some of the most consequential issues of our time, from how quantum computing and disinformation are redefining the threat landscape to the critical tensions between surveillance and human rights.

You will hear from expert panelists, participate in thought provoking discussions and walk away with insights you won't find in a classroom. The day culminates in a keynote on the future of HUMINT: a powerful reminder that even in an era of rapid technological change, the human element remains irreplaceable.

Beyond the panels, you will have the opportunity to view students competing in our inaugural strategy competition and connect with a community of driven, like-minded peers at the evening reception.

If you're looking to challenge your thinking, build your network, and position yourself at the forefront of the national security field: this is where you need to be.

Agenda (8:30am-4:30pm)

FSP Conference Agenda — Wednesday, 15 April 2026
9:10 – 10:25 AM | Roundtable: The Future of HUMINT
Guest Speakers:

Mr. Paul Pope
Mr. Michael Steere
Dr. Joseph Swiecki

Student Moderator: Hunter Flurry
Student Panelist: Eva White

10:35 – 11:50 AM | Panel: The Advent of Quantum
Guest Speakers:

Dr. Richard Rauscher
Dr. Linda Nhon

Student Moderator: Michael Dileonardo
Student Panelist: Alex Vu

11:50 AM – 12:50 PM | Lunch Break

12:50 – 2:05 PM | Panel: The Rise of Disinformation in Today's Media
Guest Speakers:

Dr. Arman Mahmoudian
Ms. Beatrice Catena
Dr. Josh Garland

Student Moderator: Daniel Armes
Student Panelist: Zeeshan Ali

2:15 – 3:30 PM | Panel: The Intersection of Surveillance, Privacy, and Human Rights
Guest Speakers:

Dr. Stephen Gary
Dr. Christopher Moran
Jeffrey Dambly

Student Moderator: Catherine Word
Student Panelist: Samhitha Prabhakar

3:40 – 4:50 PM | Fireside Chat: Educating for the Future of Technology, Intelligence, and Security
Guest Speakers:

Dr. Michael Goodman
Dr. Rebecca Patterson

Student Moderator: Connor Devanney

6:00 – 8:00 PM — Reception & Social

The Future Strategist Program | Website | View More Events

Tabina Hossain

Contact the organizers