The Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) today announced a leadership transition in its Security Policy Reform Council (SPRC). After 14 years of impactful leadership, founding Chair Charlie Allen and Vice Chair Kathy Pherson have stepped down. Their leadership has significantly shaped security clearance and suitability reform, advancing U.S. security policies since the council’s formation in 2010.
Lindy Kyzer, Director of Content at ClearanceJobs, has been named Vice Chair of the SPRC. Kyzer is a driving force in the security clearance and personnel security industry, helping ClearanceJobs build the largest career network for professionals in national security and creating the most extensive trade publication covering clearance policies. Kyzer has spearheaded initiatives aimed at demystifying the clearance process and increasing diversity in the national security workforce.
“I’m thrilled to step into this role at such a pivotal time for security policy reform,” said Kyzer. “The challenges ahead demand fresh thinking and a collaborative approach, and I’m eager to continue fostering innovation while ensuring that the security clearance process remains accessible and adaptable. Charlie and Kathy have left an incredible legacy, and I’m excited to build on that momentum with an eye toward the future of the cleared workforce.”
Key Leadership Accomplishments Under Allen and Pherson’s Tenure
- Security Clearance Advocacy: The SPRC gave voice to industry frustrations and drove policy discussions that have shaped key reforms, including clearance reciprocity and personnel security innovations.
- Continuous Evaluation: The Council led efforts to integrate continuous evaluation practices, addressing barriers to clearance eligibility such as marijuana use.
- Insider Threat Programs: SPRC advanced insider threat programs and developed government guidelines for sharing derogatory information between industry and government.
- SCIF and TEMPEST Standards: SPRC helped reduce costs associated with SCIF renovations by advocating for data-driven decisions in threat management.
As Kyzer steps into her new role, she will work alongside Donald J. Blersch, the incoming Chair of the SPRC, who brings over 35 years of public sector experience.
Blersch has a proven track record of leading technology-driven programs that address national security challenges. He has held leadership positions at multiple agencies, including NASA, NOAA, CIA, ODNI, NRO, DoD, and the U.S. State Department where he drove security innovation and technology integration to meet vital national security responsibilities while ensuring the protection of sensitive, classified information.
“I’m honored to chair the SPRC and thank INSA for this opportunity,” said Blersch. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to Charlie and Kathy for their extraordinary leadership. Their legacy of transformative progress in security policy will serve as a strong foundation for the work ahead.”
Together, they will continue the council’s legacy of shaping policies that protect national security while ensuring efficiency and innovation.
For more information about INSA and the Security Policy Reform Council, visit insaonline.org.
