Prof Futcher is a C1-rated National Research Foundation scholar and distinguished academic leader and heads the Department of Information Management and Governance in the School of Information Technology.
She is widely recognised for her work in cybersecurity education, secure software development and the human dimensions of cybersecurity.
Prof Futcher’s has also been a professional member of IITPSA (The Institute of IT Professionals South Africa) for more than a decade, and served as the Eastern Cape Chapter Chair, Non-Executive Director on the IITPSA Board, and an active participant in the Women in IT Chapter.
Moreover, she has held leadership roles within the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP), including Chair of Working Group 11.8 on Information Security Education, and she currently serves as a specialist member of IFIP Technical Committee 11.
Through her leadership, mentorship and advocacy for cyber ethics, inclusion, and professional development, Prof Futcher has consistently strengthened the bridge between academia and industry.
The IITPSA Fellowship recognises not only her professional achievements but also her enduring commitment to the growth and integrity of the South African ICT sector.