INI Alumni Tyelisa Shields and Samantha Allen Honored at Carnegie Mellon University Alumni Awards

Two Information Networking Institute (INI) alumni were selected to join this year’s cohort of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) Alumni Awards honorees: Tyelisa Shields received the Alumni Service Award and Samantha Allen received the Recent Alumni Service Award. CMU honors a select few alumni every year at this event, which celebrates alumni who give back and make an impact in their communities. This year’s ceremony marks a significant moment: 125 years since CMU’s founding and the 75th year of the Alumni Awards. 

“One of my most important goals as the INI’s director is to create a culture that not only supports our students’ academic success but also encourages an authentic sense of belonging,” said Dr. Dena Haritos Tsamitis. “That focus on community produces alumni who want to pay it forward. Tyelisa and Samantha both represent the dedication and community mindedness that characterizes INI alumni, and I am overjoyed to celebrate their recognition.” 

Left to right: CMU President Farnam Jahanian, Tyelisa Shields and INI Director Dr. Dena Haritos Tsamitis

Shields graduated from the M.S. in Information Technology – Information Security (MSIT-IS) program in 2010 and has been an engaged member of the INI community since her graduation. She joined the INI’s Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) in 2015 and has been actively involved in supporting students interested in the cybersecurity field. She has also been a consistent presence in both Pittsburgh and Silicon Valley, mentored students through CMUniverse and spoken at alumni panels. 

“Being recognized at the Alumni Awards is an incredible honor,” said Shields. “It’s deeply meaningful to be celebrated for mentoring and giving back to the CMU community, which has shaped so much of who I am. What makes this moment truly special is sharing it with my friends, family and the INI community who have supported me along the way."

During her acceptance speech, Shields reflected on the importance of mentorship and community at the INI. She finished with this call: "Remember, occupy spaces where you are celebrated and not just tolerated. I am grateful that Carnegie Mellon is where I am celebrated. Thank you for this tremendous honor."

Currently, Shields is a global cybersecurity governance and compliance program manager at HP. She also serves as the director of technology and education for the Social Equity Initiative and director of operations for Minorities in Cybersecurity (MiC). 

Allen graduated from the M.S. in Information Security (MSIS) program (formerly the M.S. in Information Security Technology and Management) in 2015. Her Recent Alumni Service Award recognizes her 10 years of dedicated support for the CMU community. Allen has been an active mentor for INI students and regularly participated in Women@INI (WINI) events as an alumni panelist. During her decade of service, Allen has served as a member of the ALC for four years, two of which as chair. She has also worked to connect alumni and students during the COVID-19 pandemic through facilitating virtual meetings and reunions.  

“Being recognized by CMU with a Recent Alumni Service Award is both humbling and inspiring,” said Allen. “It reinforces my belief that service and leadership go hand in hand. Giving back to others not only strengthens our communities but also allows me to carry forward the legacy of hard work and service that CMU and the INI instilled in me.” 

Allen currently serves as the executive director of the Cyber Security Intellects. This nonprofit organization educates the public on cybersecurity and privacy through creative outreach.