James Rothstein Business Scholarship
Awards event passes and covers travel expenses to the annual Securing New Ground Conference in New York City
About the Program
The James Rothstein Business Scholarship, presented by the Security Industry Association (SIA), is designed to support emerging professionals and students in the security industry by providing financial assistance to attend the Securing New Ground (SNG) conference. This competitive scholarship program covers SNG conference passes and travel expenses, enabling recipients to gain invaluable business insights, network with industry leaders and enhance their professional development.
This scholarship was named after James Rothstein, president of Sequel LV and a past member of SIA’s Board of Directors who served as chair from 2022 to 2024. In 2024, SIA and the Board of Directors established the James Rothstein Business Scholarship program in recognition of the commitment to business leadership and education Rothstein demonstrated during his term. His comprehensive understanding of the security industry business landscape and untapped growth opportunities for SIA member companies has informed the strategic decision making of many companies seeking to expand into new markets, and his guidance has helped businesses to innovate while remaining agile amid challenging economic shifts and world events. In his role as a leader on the SIA board, James Rothstein played an instrumental role in the development of the annual SNG conference, and he continues to support industry education and career advancement opportunities for early career professionals and students through various advisement and volunteer service roles.
Scholarship Details at a Glance:
- Provides funds to attend Securing New Ground, the security industry's executive conference
- Designed for SIA student members and/or members of the SIA RISE community
Scholarships are closed for the 2026 Rothstein Scholarship. Stay tuned for details on next year's scholarship!
Stories From Past Awardees
“I’m incredibly honored (and excited!) to receive this recognition, [which] not only fuels my passion for the security industry, but also reflects the incredible support I’ve received from my colleagues. I’m eager to keep growing my skills, forging new connections and contributing to the future of our industry."
– Phillippe Forman, Altronix
“Receiving the James Rothstein Business Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for me, as a first-generation college graduate and emerging professional in the security industry. Attending SNG will not only enhance my understanding of the latest trends, but also empower me to contribute more effectively to my current role and shape my long-term career in the security industry.”
– Aubrey Moye, dormakaba
Application Details
Eligibility
Each applicant must meet all relevant requirements set forth below to be considered eligible as a scholarship recipient.
- Each applicant must be either 1) a SIA student member or 2) a member of the SIA RISE community and an employee of a SIA member company.
- Each student applicant must be enrolled in an accredited program offered by a trade or vocational school or a postsecondary degree program related to the security industry.
- Each industry applicant must be a full-time employee of a SIA member company that is current on member dues, have worked for the employer for a minimum of six months at the time of the deadline and be in good standing within the employer organization. The designated SIA primary contact for a member company will verify eligible employees.
- Current officers, directors and key employees of SIA and the immediate families of SIA officers, directors and key employees are not eligible to receive scholarships under the program.
- Individuals who have received any scholarship awards from SIA within the previous three years are not eligible to receive scholarship funds under the program.
Application Process
Each applicant must complete the application and include supporting documentation as described below.
- Fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information.
- Provide essay responses answering the following questions:
- Why have you chosen to apply for the James Rothstein Business Scholarship? How will attending the Securing New Ground conference will benefit you? (250 words minimum)
- What skills do you possess that make you a good candidate for this scholarship? Describe how these qualities and attributes will help you to achieve success in your future academic and/or career pursuits. (500 words minimum)
- Which business topics within the security industry interest you the most, and what steps have you taken to deepen your understanding of them? (250 words minimum)
- Who is your role model in the business world and why? (250 words minimum)
Each applicant must submit a complete, signed application, together with all supporting documentation, including essays, by the deadline. The completion of the application form does not create an obligation on the part of SIA to award a scholarship to the applicant.

“I’m incredibly honored (and excited!) to receive this recognition, [which] not only fuels my passion for the security industry, but also reflects the incredible support I’ve received from my colleagues. I’m eager to keep growing my skills, forging new connections and contributing to the future of our industry."
“Receiving the James Rothstein Business Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for me, as a first-generation college graduate and emerging professional in the security industry. Attending SNG will not only enhance my understanding of the latest trends, but also empower me to contribute more effectively to my current role and shape my long-term career in the security industry.”