Jennifer Franks

Jennifer Franks directs the Center for Enhanced Cybersecurity within GAO’s Information Technology and Cybersecurity team. She oversees reviews that primarily focus on emerging cybersecurity issues and assessing an agency’s ability to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its sensitive data and computing infrastructure. Her multi-disciplinary teams actively review agencies’ computer security vulnerabilities across their enterprise-wide computing environment by assessing program management compliance and technical controls recommended for the agencies to follow in accordance with federal guidance and leading practices. In addition, she leads reviews in the areas of IT management and operations, financial management, healthcare and public health IT, data protection, and privacy. Jennifer joined GAO in 2006. She is a Diversity Champion who leads efforts to increase inclusiveness at GAO. Since 2012, she has facilitated numerous agency Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) courses, and holds facilitator certifications in “Engaging in Bold, Inclusive Conversations” and “Green Dot Bystander Intervention” training. Jennifer completed the Key Executive Leadership Program at American University, earned a master’s degree in information security policy and management from Carnegie Mellon University, and earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Hampton University.