Security Industry Association Names 2026 Rothstein Scholarship Winners
Two emerging professionals receive financial support to attend the Securing New Ground executive conference in New York City.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Sep 02, 2026
Two emerging leaders in the security industry have been selected to receive financial support to attend an upcoming executive conference in New York City.
The Security Industry Association named Manuel Alejandro Fernández Mena of Johnson Controls and Jonas Rosa of Convergint as the recipients of the 2026 James Rothstein Business Scholarship. The program provides financial assistance to help early-career professionals and students participate in the annual Securing New Ground conference.
Fernández Mena serves as a security pod leader at Johnson Controls in San José, Costa Rica, leading a team focused on security solutions and operational excellence. Rosa works as a global account manager for Latin America at Convergint, focusing on commercial strategy and technology across international markets.
Established by SIA and its board of directors in 2024, the scholarship covers conference passes and travel expenses for the event. It is named in honor of James Rothstein, president of Sequel LV and former SIA board chair, recognizing his contributions to industry education and executive leadership.
The 2026 Securing New Ground conference will take place Oct. 20–21 at the New York Marriott Marquis. The event gathers security industry leaders for executive interviews, networking and discussions on key industry trends, including artificial intelligence and global market shifts.