At the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who bring unique expertise and experiences to our team. Today, we’re excited to introduce our new Cybersecurity Program Manager, Marisa Tranchitella Foltz, whose expertise in cybersecurity will be a game-changer for small businesses navigating the digital landscape.

Marisa will lead efforts in cybersecurity and data privacy at Delaware’s SBDC, providing education and training for entrepreneurs while managing ASBDC’s North Star Cybersecurity Program. Thanks to recent  SBA Cyber Prize funding, North Star will train advisors nationwide, and we’re thrilled to have Marisa leading this charge.

Marisa holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and a Master’s degree in Education from Drexel University (Go Dragons!). In addition, she has earned a certificate in Online Teaching & Learning, equipping her with the skills to effectively educate and empower business owners on best practices in cybersecurity.

Her professional journey began at Intealth (formerly the Educational Commission of Foreign Medical Graduates), where she was one of the original hires for the newly formed Information Security team. Over six years, Marisa played a pivotal role in building the organization’s information security program from the ground up, with a strong focus on governance, risk, and compliance. Her passion lies in Human Risk Management, as well as Security Awareness and Training—empowering businesses to build a strong security culture. By educating individuals on best practices and reducing vulnerabilities linked to human error, she helps organizations minimize security breaches and adopt a more resilient cybersecurity strategy.

Marisa is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. She collaborates with the Work-Based Learning Alliance as an industry expert, guiding high school students through an introductory cybersecurity internship. Her commitment to education and mentorship makes her a valuable asset to both the SBDC and the small business community.

When she’s not helping businesses safeguard their digital assets, Marisa enjoys spending time with her family and pets, which include two cats and a dog.

Marisa’s deep knowledge and hands-on experience in cybersecurity will be instrumental in helping small businesses strengthen their digital defenses. Whether you’re looking for guidance on cybersecurity best practices or need support in risk management, Marisa is here to help – welcome to the team!