Penney adds cybersecurity expert to board

J.C. Penney Company has added a former senior advisor to the director of the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors.



Debora Plunkett is joining the Penney board. Possessing extensive experience in cybersecurity, information assurance and innovation in information security, Plunkett has a deep understanding of the data-driven and interconnected world of today, the retailer said.



"Debora has a strong background in information management and technology, and has been trusted by some of the nation`s top leaders to deliver robust security solutions and policies for the U.S. government," said Marvin R. Ellison, chairman and CEO of J.C. Penney.



Most recently, Plunkett served as a professor at University of Maryland University College teaching graduate-level cybersecurity courses. She also provides consultation on cybersecurity, and information assurance.



The company also announced that Colleen Barrett, president emeritus of Southwest Airlines Co., will retire from the board at the end of her term, which concludes on May 19, 2017, at the company`s annual meeting.