The selection process for this year's A100 cohort bypassed traditional sponsorship models, relying instead on an independent board of practitioners to vet candidates based on merit. Judges observed that the 2026 group distinguishes itself through improved cross-functional fluency and a proactive stance on integrating artificial intelligence into organizational risk frameworks. David Cass, President of CISOs Connect, noted that these leaders are not merely reacting to AI developments but are actively shaping how their organizations deploy these technologies.

This year’s awards mark a milestone for the organization, expanding beyond North America to include global honorees for the first time. Among the judges overseeing the selection were security leaders from organizations including Accenture, Sandia National Laboratories, and Quest Diagnostics. The winners will be recognized during an in-person ceremony held today, June 29, in Nashville. According to Aimee Rhodes, CEO of CISOs Connect, the recognition underscores the growing gravity of the CISO position during a period of professional transformation.