Faces of Nelnet: Pete Meinert, Corporate Security and Business Recovery

Interviewed by Dawn Knight, Western Regional Director, Nelnet Partner Solutions

Pete Meinert, Director, Corporate Security & Business Recovery

What are you most proud of with your department?

Pete Meinert: Since we received the Direct Lending government contract, I am most proud of Nelnet’s willingness to spend money on security as well as implement security related products.  We’ve jumped light-years in our security postures to comply with the FSA contract.

What has been your biggest work related challenge during the past 12 months?

Pete: The biggest challenge has to do with FSA compliance–government contracting is a different world for us.

If a school were to ask you what it is you do for Nelnet that impacts them, what would you say?

Pete: My team is protecting their students’ data. 

What are the goals of your department?

Pete: The goals…we’re a very small team and our biggest goal is to create awareness throughout the organization.  Our tag line is, “Helping you protect our customers,” and we have ongoing education for our associates on the importance of security.

We strive to get everyone thinking about security.  Additionally, we work with Nelnet’s Corporate Communications department on creating that awareness via e-mail blasts, Ntranet, etc.

If you could be anywhere in the universe for New Year’s Eve, where would you be and why?

Pete: New York City–Times Square.

What is your favorite movie snack?

Pete: Popcorn.

Name one thing that many people do not know about you.

Pete: In high school, I worked at Latrobe Country Club and caddied for Arnold Palmer four times.