Highlights from NTC 2025: Community, Cybersecurity, and Connection

Last week, the Lockwell team had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Nonprofit Technology Conference (NTC)—and what an inspiring experience it was.

Throughout the event, one theme kept rising to the top: cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting systems—it’s about protecting people, missions, and communities. It’s about resilience, trust, and collaboration.

We met incredible nonprofit leaders, IT professionals, and community advocates who are actively shaping the future of nonprofit technology. Here are just a few highlights from an unforgettable event:

Setting the Tone with Cherish Times Two

On our first day at NTC, we had the absolute pleasure of meeting Sherry Wilmore and Cherry Willmore, co-founders of Cherish Times Two—and instantly known to us (and everyone else!) as Everybody’s Favorite Twins.

Their energy, passion, and commitment to their community set the perfect tone for our entire conference experience. Cherish Times Two is a newly founded nonprofit, led solely by the two of them, focused on building up their operations and fundraising efforts. Like many early-stage organizations, cybersecurity isn’t something that’s at the top of their checklist right now—and that’s completely understandable.

In fact, for many new nonprofits, the priority is simple: get the mission off the ground, build momentum, and start making an impact. It’s easy for cybersecurity to feel like something that can wait for “later.”

But as we talked more about the realities of today’s risks—and how even small nonprofits can be targets—we were reminded why starting the conversation early matters so much.

At Lockwell, we love creating space for these real-world conversations because we believe that protecting your mission should never come too late. It’s incredibly rewarding to empower organizations like Cherish Times Two to think proactively, before cybersecurity becomes a problem rather than a plan.

We believe no mission should be thwarted before it ever fully launches—and starting with small, accessible steps makes all the difference.

Spotlight: Will Raj and the Lyric Opera of Chicago

One of the highlights of our time at NTC was connecting with Will Raj, Vice President of Information Technology at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Will shared how the Lyric had already been investing in thoughtful IT practices and security measures—long before cybersecurity became a headline issue in the arts world. But when a serious breach at the Metropolitan Opera impacted more than 45,000 individuals, it sent shockwaves through the performing arts community nationwide.

The Met breach served as a wake-up call—not because organizations weren’t trying, but because the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats was changing faster than many realized. It pushed institutions across the country to reassess, reinforce, and strengthen their security strategies to protect their audiences, their artists, and their missions.

Will has been instrumental in leading the Lyric Opera’s efforts to meet this moment. After conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, he and his team have been working diligently to refine their cybersecurity posture, identify vulnerabilities, and implement stronger protections across the organization.

What impressed us most was Will’s proactive mindset: not waiting for another crisis, but taking clear, thoughtful steps to make sure the Lyric is resilient and ready for whatever challenges the future might bring.

Instant Connections and Peer Collaboration

Sometimes the best connections happen organically—and that’s exactly how we met Jonathan Nguyen, an IT professional with Maryland Nonprofits.

After a colleague visited our first topic table on cybersecurity compliance, they immediately group-texted Jonathan, encouraging him to come check us out. Not long after, we found ourselves connecting with him during our Path to Compliance session—and it felt like we were instant friends.

Our session focused on a growing reality for nonprofits: more and more funders and partners are asking organizations to prove their cybersecurity readiness. We talked about how compliance isn’t just a paperwork exercise—it’s a vital part of building trust, securing partnerships, and protecting the communities nonprofits serve.

For IT leaders like Jonathan, the session resonated deeply. Maryland Nonprofits is fortunate to have a knowledgeable and proactive IT team that understands these emerging challenges and is already thinking ahead. They have people who know how to spot risks, build strong defenses, and guide their organizations through the growing complexity of cybersecurity requirements.

But the reality is that many nonprofits don’t have that. Many teams are small, stretched thin, or don’t have dedicated cybersecurity expertise at all. And that’s exactly why Lockwell exists: to make sure every mission-driven organization—no matter its size or budget—can access the tools, support, and protection they need to thrive.

Jonathan’s story reminded us of how vital it is to have knowledgeable people in place to guide organizations through today’s cybersecurity challenges. But what happens when there simply aren't enough trained experts to go around?

That question led us to another inspiring conversation—this time about building the cybersecurity workforce of the future.

Building the Future Cybersecurity Workforce 

That question—how do we grow the cybersecurity workforce nonprofits and small businesses need—was at the heart of our conversation with John Bruns, CEO of Cyber Ready Clinics.

Cyber Ready Clinics recognized early on that while the need for protection is growing, the number of trained professionals hasn't kept up—especially for smaller organizations that often struggle to access cybersecurity talent.

Their solution is powerful: building a cybersecurity employment pipeline that provides real-world experience to local volunteers and interns. Participants gain practical industry skills while helping protect mission-driven organizations, and earn digital badging to grow their careers.

We love the work Cyber Ready Clinics is doing because it’s not just about solving today’s challenges—it’s about investing in the future of cybersecurity itself.

As important as it is to invest in people, it’s just as critical to stay ahead of the technological shifts shaping the future of cybersecurity.

That’s where AI comes into the conversation.

Exploring AI and the Future of Cybersecurity

On Thursday, we hosted another topic table: AI & the Future of Cybersecurity. Before the session even started, we had a fascinating conversation with Derrick Gilbert, Director of IT Operations at Horizon House Inc in Philadelphia.

Derrick was curious about Elle, our AI Cyber Defense Agent featured on our conference banner. We dove into how Elle can proactively monitor and respond to cybersecurity risks—not only for small teams without IT staff but also as a valuable sidekick for larger IT departments.

For leaders like Derrick, Elle offers extra eyes, extra protection, and the ability to take intelligent actions quickly, giving organizations a smarter, more resilient approach to cybersecurity, regardless of their size.

Small Acts of Kindness: A Shoutout to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts IT Team

Sometimes technology has a mind of its own—and that’s exactly what happened to one of our team members just before an important session.

Their laptop began malfunctioning, making a noise that the team at the next table couldn’t ignore. Thankfully, Thomas Schlaefer and Ber Yang from the Minneapolis Institute of Art's IT team noticed the issue and immediately stepped in to offer their help.

Their kindness reminded us that nonprofit professionals are wired to step up and help—whether they’re working with their own teams or simply passing by. That spirit of community and support was everywhere at NTC, and we’re so grateful to have experienced it firsthand.

Moments like these are a reminder that whether it's about technology, security, or mission work, we're all stronger when we support one another.

Passion for Data Governance: M. Celinee Takatsuno and Tech Matters

Another important conversation we had at NTC was with M. Celine Takatsuno of Tech Matters.
Celine is leading the creation of Better Deal for Data, a practical initiative focused on helping the social sector strengthen its data governance practices.

Recognizing that many nonprofits are strapped for resources—and often lack dedicated data security teams—Celine is working to create accessible, actionable resources that organizations of all sizes can use to protect their data, safeguard their communities, and build deeper trust with their supporters.

Her passion for tech for good and commitment to practical solutions left a lasting impression.
As nonprofits become more data-driven, building strong governance practices will be just as essential as building strong cybersecurity foundations—and leaders like Celine are helping make that future possible.

Closing Reflection: Protecting What Matters Most

NTC reminded us why Lockwell exists: to make cybersecurity accessible, affordable, and human-centered for nonprofits and small businesses.

It’s not just about meeting compliance checklists—it’s about protecting missions, earning trust, and helping organizations thrive.

We’re grateful to everyone who shared their stories, asked hard questions, and inspired new ideas. We left NTC with full hearts—and full notebooks—and we’re more committed than ever to building a safer, stronger future for the communities we serve.

Let’s keep the conversation going. If you’re ready to make cybersecurity a natural part of your mission’s success, we’re here for you.