Taurean Russell joined the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in October 2024 as the first Vice President of Information Technology (IT). With more than 20 years of specialized and diverse expertise in information technology operations and cybersecurity, Russell is an accomplished IT professional with a history of leading efforts to strengthen the resiliency and security of organizations in highly regulated industries.
Russell previously served as Deputy Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Winston-Salem State University, where he managed the university’s IT infrastructure and security programs. In 2023, Cyber Defense Magazine recognized him as one of the Top Global CISOs. In 2026, OnCon recognized Russell as a Top 100 Information Security Professional.
He has held numerous leadership roles across diverse industries, including healthcare, higher education, manufacturing and the U.S. Army. His expertise includes information security, risk management, IT operations and strategic planning.
Russell earned degrees from American Military University, including an associate’s, bachelor’s and Master’s in Information Technology.
