2015 STARS Hall of Fame

Alex Stamos

Cybersecurity Leader & Digital Safety Advocate
Cambridge Heights ES | Arcade MS | Bella Vista HS

Alex Stamos is a global cybersecurity expert who has led efforts to protect billions of users across the world’s most visited platforms. As former Chief Security Officer at both Facebook and Yahoo, he played a pivotal role in safeguarding personal privacy, defending civil liberties, and building a safer internet.

A Bella Vista graduate, Alex’s path was shaped by inspiring teachers, music and mock trial mentors, and a championship-winning Academic Decathlon team. He earned his degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from UC Berkeley, then went on to found a pioneering security firm and serve as a trusted advisor to major tech companies and public institutions. He has testified before Congress, contributed to national conversations on digital ethics, and worked to ensure technology serves democracy—not undermines it.

Alex married his high school debate rival, Katie (Del Paso Manor, Churchill, BVHS, UCLA), in 2003. Today, they’re raising three young children in San Carlos, California, where they volunteer at their local public school. He continues to give back as a college lecturer, keynote speaker, and supporter of Bella Vista’s Academic Decathlon team—honoring the legacy of the educators who inspired him.